Supplementary file 1_Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization combined with stereotactic body radiation therapy versus transcatheter arterial chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis.docx

Heterogeneity was assessed using Cochran’s Q test and the I² statistic. Subgroup analyses (by study design, concurrent systemic therapy, and HR adjustment) and sensitivity analyses were performed.</p>Results<p>Nine studies involving 828 patients were included. The TACE-SBRT combination significantly improved OS (HR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.35–0.65, P < 0.001; I² = 13%) and PFS (HR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.32–0.65, P < 0.001; I² = 54%) compared to TACE.

There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of grade ≥3 adverse events between the two groups (RR = 1.27, 95% CI: 0.87–1.86, P = 0.21). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the findings.</p>Conclusion<p>In patients with unresectable HCC, the combination of TACE and SBRT appears to confer a survival advantage over TACE, without significantly increasing the risk of severe adverse events.</p>Systematic Review Registration<p>crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420261350374, identifier CRD 420261350374.</p>