No-mortality liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic and noncirrhotic patients: is there a way? A prospective analysis of our approach

Resection prior to liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility and postoperative course of liver transplantation (LT) in cirrhotic patients who underwent liver resection prior to LT for HCC.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Although LT provides longer survival than liver resection for treatment of small HCCs, donor shortage and long LT wait time may argue against LT. The feasibility and survival following LT after hepatic resection have not been previously examined.

METHODS

Between 1991 and 2001, among 107 patients who underwent LT for HCC, 88 met Mazzafero's criteria upon pathologic analysis of the explant. Of these, 70 underwent primary liver transplantation (PLT) and 18 liver resection prior to secondary liver transplantation (SLT) for recurrence (n = 11), deterioration of liver function (n = 4), or high risk for recurrence (n = 3). Perioperative and postoperative factors and long-term survival were compared.

RESULTS

Comparison of PLT and SLT groups at the time of LT revealed similar median age (53 vs. 55 years), sex, and etiology of liver disease (alcohol/viral B/C/other). In the SLT group, the mean time between liver resection and listing for LT was 20 months (range 1-84 months). Overall time on LT waiting list of the two groups was similar (3 vs. 5 months). Pathologic analysis after LT revealed similar tumor size (2.2 vs. 2.3 cm) and number (1.6 vs. 1.7). Perioperative and postoperative courses were not different in terms of operative time (551 vs. 530 minutes), blood loss (1191 vs. 1282 mL), transfusion (3 vs. 2 units), ICU (9 vs. 10 days) or hospital stay (32 vs. 31 days), morbidity (51% vs. 56%) or 30-day mortality (5.7% vs. 5.6%). During a median follow-up of 32 months (3 to 158 months), 3 patients recurred after PLT and one after SLT. After transplantation, 3- and 5-year overall survivals were not different between groups (82 vs. 82% and 59 vs. 61%).

CONCLUSIONS

In selected patients, liver resection prior to transplantation does not increase the morbidity or impair long-term survival following LT. Therefore, liver resection prior to transplantation can be integrated in the treatment strategy for HCC.

Selection criteria for repeat hepatectomy in patients with recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate prognostic factors in patients with recurrence after curative resection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to identify selection criteria for repeat resection.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Recent studies have demonstrated that repeat hepatectomy is effective for treating intrahepatic recurrent HCC in selected patients. However, the prognostic factors in these patients have not been fully evaluated.

METHODS

From October 1994 to December 2000, 334 patients underwent primary resection for HCC, and 67 received a 2nd hepatectomy for recurrent HCC. The survival results in these 67 patients were analyzed, and prognostic factors were determined using 38 clinicopathological variables. The prognosis and operative risk in 11 and 6 patients who received a 3rd and 4th resection were also evaluated.

RESULTS

The overall 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates of the 334 patients after primary hepatectomy were 94%, 75%, and 56%, while those of the 67 patients after a 2nd resection were 93%, 70%, and 56%, respectively. There was no difference in survival (P = 0.64). All of the patients who underwent a 3rd or 4th are currently alive at a median follow-up of 2.5 and 1.4 years, respectively. The operative time and blood loss in the 2nd resection in patients who underwent a major primary resection were not different from those in patients who underwent minor hepatectomy at the 1st resection, and there were also no differences in these variables among the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th resections. In a multivariate analysis, absence of portal invasion at the 2nd resection (P = 0.01), single HCC at primary hepatectomy (P = 0.01), and a disease-free interval of 1 year or more after primary hepatectomy (P = 0.02) were independent prognostic factors after the 2nd resection. Twenty-nine patients with all 3 of these factors showed 3- and 5-year survival rates of 100% and 86%, respectively, after the 2nd resection.

CONCLUSIONS

Repeat hepatic resection is the treatment of choice for patients who have previously undergone resection of a single HCC at the primary resection and in whom recurrence developed after a disease-free interval of 1 year or more and the recurrent tumor had no portal invasion.

Ultrasound-guided finger compression in liver subsegmentectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma

Systematic subsegmentectomy is now accepted as the best option for the surgical management of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis because it optimizes the balance between oncological requirements and the need to spare functioning liver parenchyma. However, this technique can be difficult because it requires a strong background in ultrasound-guided interventional procedures. We describe a new, simplified technique for the anatomical subsegmental hepatic resection of segment 2 or 3. It consists of IOUS-guided blunt portal branch compression to disclose the subsegmental area to be removed. This technique is a further evolution of so-called systematic subsegmentectomy for tumors located in segments 2 and 3. Its main advantages are that it is easy, fast, and reversible. We believe that it has the potential to lead to new opportunities in subsegmental anatomic liver resection.

Liver resection as a bridge to transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma on cirrhosis: a reasonable strategy?

OBJECTIVE

To assess the viability of a strategy of primary resection with secondary liver transplantation (LT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) on cirrhosis.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

LT is the optimal treatment of HCC with cirrhosis. Owing to organ shortage, liver resection is considered as a reasonable first-line treatment of patients with small HCC and good liver function, with secondary LT as a perspective in case of recurrence. The viability of such strategy, positively explored in theoretical models, is not documented in clinical practice.

METHODS

Among 358 consecutive patients with HCC on cirrhosis treated by liver resection (n = 163; 98 of whom were transplantable) or transplantation (n = 195), the feasibility and outcome of secondary transplantation was evaluated in a 2-step fashion. First, secondary LT for tumor recurrence after resection (n = 17) was compared with primary LT (n = 195), to assess the risk and the outcome of secondary LT in patients who effectively succeeded to be treated by this approach. Second, primary resection in transplantable patients (n = 98) was compared with that of primary LT (n = 195) on an intention-to-treat basis, to assess the outcome of each treatment strategy and to determine the proportion of resected patients likely to be switched for secondary LT. Transplantability of resected patients was retrospectively determined according to selection criteria of LT for HCC.

RESULTS

Operative mortality (< or =2 months) of secondary LT was significantly higher than that of primary LT (28.6% versus 2.1%; P = 0.0008) as was intraoperative bleeding (mean transfused blood units, 20.7 versus 10.5; P = 0.0001). Tumor recurrence occurred more frequently after secondary than after primary LT (54% versus 18%; P = 0.001). Posttransplant 5-year overall survival was 41% versus 61% (P = 0.03), and disease-free survival was 29% versus 58% (P = 0.003) for secondary and primary LT, respectively. Of 98 patients treated by resection while initially eligible for transplantation, only 20 (20%) were secondarily transplanted, 17 of whom (17%) for tumor recurrence and 3 (3%) for hepatic decompensation. Transplantability of tumoral recurrence was 25% (17 of 69 recurrences). Compared with primarily transplanted patients, transplantable resected patients had a decreased 5-year overall survival (50% versus 61%; P = 0.05) and disease-free survival (18% versus 58%; P < 0.0001), despite the use of secondary LT. On a multivariate analysis including 271 patients eligible for transplantation and treated by either liver resection or primary LT, liver resection alone (P < 0.0001; risk ratio [RR] = 3.27) or liver resection with secondary LT (P < 0.05; RR= 1.87) emerged as negative independent factors of disease-free survival as compared with primary LT. A number of nodules > 3 (P = 0.002; RR= 2.02) and a maximum tumor size exceeding 30 mm (P < 0.0001; RR=1.93) were also predictive of lower disease-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS

LT after liver resection is associated with a higher operative mortality, an increased risk of recurrence, and a poorer outcome than primary LT. In addition, liver resection as a bridge to LT impairs the patient transplantability and the chance of long-term survival of cirrhotic patients with HCC. Primary LT should therefore remain the ideal choice of treatment of a cirrhotic patient with HCC, even when the tumor is resectable.

Total vascular exclusion technique for resection of hepatocellular carcinoma

AIM: To improve the low resection rate, poor prognosis and to control the massive hemorrhage during operation, total vascular exclusion (TVE) technique was used in hepatectomies of advanced and complicated hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs).

METHODS: Five hundred and thirty patients with HCCs were admitted in our hospital. They were divided into TVE technique group (group A: n = 78), Pringle maneuver method group (group B: n = 176) and unresectable group (group C: n = 276). The clinical, operative, pathological parameters and outcome of the patients were statistically evaluated.

RESULTS: Group A had a significantly higher resection rate than group B (accounting for 47.92% and 33.21% respectively). There was no significant difference in blood loss, blood transfusion and perioperative mortality between groups A and B. Both groups had the similar median disease free survival time (14.6 vs 16.3 months) and 1 year survival rate (92.9% vs 95.5%). The TVE group had a medial survival time of 40.5 months and its 5-year survival rate was 34.6%.

CONCLUSION: As compared with Pringle maneuver method, the total vascular exclusion is a safe and effective technique to increase the total resection rate of advanced and complicated HCCs.

Long-term outcome of extended hemihepatectomy for hilar bile duct cancer with no mortality and high survival rate

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate our strategy for hilar bile duct cancer and to elucidate prognostic factors and the surgeon's role in long-term survival.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Extended hemihepatectomy is recognized as a curative treatment of hilar bile duct cancer but is not always safe because of the risk of postoperative liver failure. A safe and beneficial strategy is required.

METHODS

Fifty-eight consecutive major hepatectomies for hilar bile duct cancer were reviewed retrospectively. Appropriate preoperative treatments, biliary drainage, and portal embolization were performed before major hepatectomies. The short- and long-term results of our strategy are presented and analyzed.

RESULTS

Biliary drainage and portal embolization were performed in 39 patients (67.2%) and 31 patients (53.4%), respectively. Major hepatectomies comprised 27 extended right and 22 extended left hemihepatectomies and 9 hepatoduodenopancreatectomies. Operative morbidity and mortality rates were 43% and 0%, respectively. There was no postoperative liver failure. The overall 5-year survival rate was 40%. Univariate analysis showed that residual tumor status, lymph node involvement, and perineural invasion were associated with patients' long-term survival. A surgical margin over 5 mm resulted in better long-term survival. The delay resulting from preoperative treatment was not detrimental to long-term survival. Multivariate analysis showed that lymph node involvement was the only prognostic factor.

CONCLUSIONS

Our strategy, which includes preoperative biliary drainage and portal embolization, led to a reduction in the risks associated with major hepatectomy for hilar bile duct cancer, and resulted in zero mortality. Surgeons should aim at complete clearance of the tumor with an adequate surgical margin to ensure optimal long-term survival.

Long-term outcome of extended hemihepatectomy for hilar bile duct cancer with no mortality and high survival rate

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate our strategy for hilar bile duct cancer and to elucidate prognostic factors and the surgeon's role in long-term survival.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Extended hemihepatectomy is recognized as a curative treatment of hilar bile duct cancer but is not always safe because of the risk of postoperative liver failure. A safe and beneficial strategy is required.

METHODS

Fifty-eight consecutive major hepatectomies for hilar bile duct cancer were reviewed retrospectively. Appropriate preoperative treatments, biliary drainage, and portal embolization were performed before major hepatectomies. The short- and long-term results of our strategy are presented and analyzed.

RESULTS

Biliary drainage and portal embolization were performed in 39 patients (67.2%) and 31 patients (53.4%), respectively. Major hepatectomies comprised 27 extended right and 22 extended left hemihepatectomies and 9 hepatoduodenopancreatectomies. Operative morbidity and mortality rates were 43% and 0%, respectively. There was no postoperative liver failure. The overall 5-year survival rate was 40%. Univariate analysis showed that residual tumor status, lymph node involvement, and perineural invasion were associated with patients' long-term survival. A surgical margin over 5 mm resulted in better long-term survival. The delay resulting from preoperative treatment was not detrimental to long-term survival. Multivariate analysis showed that lymph node involvement was the only prognostic factor.

CONCLUSIONS

Our strategy, which includes preoperative biliary drainage and portal embolization, led to a reduction in the risks associated with major hepatectomy for hilar bile duct cancer, and resulted in zero mortality. Surgeons should aim at complete clearance of the tumor with an adequate surgical margin to ensure optimal long-term survival.

Increased Biliary Fistulas after Liver Resection with the Harmonic Scalpel

The Harmonic Scalpel (HS) is frequently used for hepatic resection. Yet, no current study addresses its utility compared to conventional methods. We reviewed our experience with this device to determine if it decreased perioperative complications when compared to the traditional clamp crushing technique. One hundred forty-nine anatomic hepatic resections were performed at our institution from September 1992 to February 2002. Patients were divided into two groups based on the technique of resection: HS [53% (n = 79)] versus clamp crushing [47% (n = 70)]. Use of the HS was associated with a shorter mean operative time (357 ± 15.0 vs. 404 ± 19.1 min; p = 0.05) and a trend toward decreased blood loss (1211 ± 125.5 vs. 1411 ± 180.7 mL; P = NS) and transfusion requirements (2.6 ± 0.5 vs. 1.7 ± 0.3 units; P = 0.10). However, use of the HS was associated with a significant increase in biliary fistulas [24% (n = 19) vs. 7% (n = 5); P = 0.01]. Use of the Harmonic Scalpel was associated with decreased operative time and a trend toward decreased blood loss and transfusion requirements. Its use was also associated with a significant increase in the incidence of postoperative bile leaks, and, therefore, surgeons must be vigilant during liver parenchymal transection when using this device.

Quantitative liver-spleen scan using single photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) for assessment of hepatic function in cirrhotic patients

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Accurate quantitative determination of liver function is critical in cirrhotic patients in order to predict outcome, particularly in patients who undergo hepatic resection or non-hepatic surgery. As colloid uptake by perfused Kupffer cells is proportional to perfused hepatocyte mass, quantitative liver spleen scan may be used as an index of perfused hepatocyte mass. Thus, this study was conducted to evaluate quantitative single photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) of Tc-99mm-phytate colloid uptake by the liver as a test for hepatic function in cirrhotic patients.

METHODS

Quantitative SPECT was used to measure liver volume, quantitative colloid uptake by the liver and percentage of injected dose/ml of liver tissue in cirrhotic patients (n=75), non-cirrhotic patients with chronic liver disease (n=52) and patients without liver disease (n=36).

RESULTS

Although liver volume was similar among the three groups, the cirrhotic patients had significantly lower total quantitative uptake and quantitative uptake/ml compared to groups 2 and 3 (P<0.001). Quantitative liver uptake in the cirrhotic patients was highly correlated with Child-Pugh score (r=-0.64, P<0.0001) and with indocyanine green retention at 15 min (r=-0.84, P<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Quantitative SPECT of the liver may be an additional, useful, non-invasive quantitative test for assessment of hepatic function and severity of liver disease in cirrhotic patients.

Hepatocellular carcinoma: surgical indications and results

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a tumour of increasing incidence that usually arises in cirrhotic liver. Untreated, the prognosis is grim and the only curative treatment is surgical resection. The practical application of segmental surgery to the liver together with the use of ultrasound and other imaging techniques, patient selection criteria and improvements in perioperative technique and postoperative care have contributed to better results in hepatic surgery. Today, less than 10% mortality for resection of cirrhotic livers, with up to 50% 5-year survival rates are to be expected. However, the limits of resection for cure: intrahepatic recurrence makes stringent follow-up necessary. In this way the available modalities of treatment can be applied so as to improve survival. Herein, a current 'state-of-the-art' of surgical indications and results for HCC is given.

Long-term outcome of extended hemihepatectomy for hilar bile duct cancer with no mortality and high survival rate

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate our strategy for hilar bile duct cancer and to elucidate prognostic factors and the surgeon's role in long-term survival.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Extended hemihepatectomy is recognized as a curative treatment of hilar bile duct cancer but is not always safe because of the risk of postoperative liver failure. A safe and beneficial strategy is required.

METHODS

Fifty-eight consecutive major hepatectomies for hilar bile duct cancer were reviewed retrospectively. Appropriate preoperative treatments, biliary drainage, and portal embolization were performed before major hepatectomies. The short- and long-term results of our strategy are presented and analyzed.

RESULTS

Biliary drainage and portal embolization were performed in 39 patients (67.2%) and 31 patients (53.4%), respectively. Major hepatectomies comprised 27 extended right and 22 extended left hemihepatectomies and 9 hepatoduodenopancreatectomies. Operative morbidity and mortality rates were 43% and 0%, respectively. There was no postoperative liver failure. The overall 5-year survival rate was 40%. Univariate analysis showed that residual tumor status, lymph node involvement, and perineural invasion were associated with patients' long-term survival. A surgical margin over 5 mm resulted in better long-term survival. The delay resulting from preoperative treatment was not detrimental to long-term survival. Multivariate analysis showed that lymph node involvement was the only prognostic factor.

CONCLUSIONS

Our strategy, which includes preoperative biliary drainage and portal embolization, led to a reduction in the risks associated with major hepatectomy for hilar bile duct cancer, and resulted in zero mortality. Surgeons should aim at complete clearance of the tumor with an adequate surgical margin to ensure optimal long-term survival.

Liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotics and noncirrhotics. Evaluation of clinicopathologic features and comparison of risk factors for long-term survival and tumour recurrence in a single centre

BACKGROUND

Differences in risk factors for survival and recurrence after liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with or without cirrhosis are not fully clarified.

AIM

To review a single-centre experience of curative liver resections for HCC in order to evaluate clinicopathologic features and the long-term outcome of cirrhotic and noncirrhotic patients.

METHODS

From 1981 to 2002, 308 curative liver resections for HCC on cirrhosis (Group 1) and 135 for HCC without cirrhosis (Group 2) were performed. The main demographic, clinicopathologic and operative parameters, as well as early results were analysed and compared. Overall and disease-free survival were evaluated. Prognostic factors for survival and for tumour recurrence were studied by univariate and multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

Group 1 had worse preoperative liver function and higher frequency of hepatitis C virus infection. In Group 2, HCC showed larger mean tumour diameter (P < 0.001), poorer differentiation (P < 0.05) and more frequent macrovascular invasion (P < 0.05). Although more extended resections were performed in Group 2 (P < 0.001), there were no differences in blood transfusions, while post-operative complication rate was higher in Group 1 (P < 0.005). After 1992, in-hospital mortality was 2.9% in Group 1 and 1.1% in Group 2 (P = N.S.). The 3- and 5-year overall survival was 63.7% and 42.2% in Group 1, and 67.9% and 51% in Group 2 (P < 0.05). The 3- and 5-year disease-free survival was 49.3% and 27.8% in Group 1, and 58% and 45.6% in Group 2 (P < 0.005). Serum bilirubin level > 1.2 mg/dL, multiple nodules, micro and macrovascular invasion, diaphragm infiltration and blood transfusions independently affected survival in Group 1. Blood replacement was the only negative prognostic factor in Group 2. Independent risk factors for tumour recurrence were satellite nodules and resection performed before 1992 in Group 1, and age < 60 in Group 2.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite a more aggressive behaviour, HCC without cirrhosis led to better overall and disease-free survival compared to HCC with cirrhosis after curative liver resection. Age and intra-operative blood transfusions are the only predictors of outcome in patients without cirrhosis. The impact of the latter on long-term survival in both our groups outlines the importance of surgical technique on the results of hepatectomies.

Bacterial translocation after cirrhotic liver resection: a clinical investigation of 181 patients

BACKGROUND

Cirrhotic patients are usually associated with a high susceptibility to infection. Although bacterial translocation from gut mucosa to mesenteric lymph node (MLN) and systemic circulation is a well-known phenomenon after hepatectomy, its role in cirrhotic patients remains unclear.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MLN was harvested for bacterial culture before and after liver resection in 181 cirrhotic patients. The characteristics and postoperative courses of patients with positive and negative bacterial culture for MLN after hepatectomy were compared. Postoperative systemic antibiotics were administered if infectious complications occurred.

RESULTS

No bacteria were cultured in MLN before hepatectomy. Bacterial translocation (BT) to MLN after hepatectomy occurred in 36 patients (BT group). After multivariate analysis, intraoperative blood transfusion was the only independent factor that influenced bacterial translocation rates after cirrhotic liver resection. BT group patients also had higher infectious and overall complication rates, with a longer postoperative hospital stay. Among the cultured bacteriae from infected sites in BT group patients with infectious complications, only 2 patients (12.5%) had totally different bacterial species to those cultured from MLNs.

CONCLUSIONS

Bacterial translocation more often occurred after liver resection in cirrhotic patients who received intraoperative blood transfusion. Such patients had higher postoperative infectious and overall complication rates. Thus, avoidance of intraoperative blood transfusion is mandatory for cirrhotic liver resection.

Portal vein embolization before right hepatectomy: prospective clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of liver hypertrophy of the future liver remnant volume (FLR) induced by preoperative portal vein embolization (PVE) on the immediate postoperative complications after a standardized major liver resection.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

PVE is usually indicated when FLR is estimated to be too small for major liver resection. However, few data exist regarding the exact quantification of sufficient minimal functional hepatic volume required to avoid postoperative complications in both patients with or without chronic liver disease.

METHODS

All consecutive patients in whom an elective right hepatectomy was feasible and who fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria between 1998 and 2000 were assigned to have alternatively either immediate surgery or surgery after PVE. Among 55 patients (25 liver metastases, 2 cholangiocarcinoma, and 28 hepatocellular carcinoma), 28 underwent right hepatectomy after PVE and 27 underwent immediate surgery. Twenty-eight patients had chronic liver disease. FLR and estimated rate of functional future liver remnant (%FFLR) volumes were assessed by computed tomography.

RESULTS

The mean increase of FLR and %FFLR 4 to 8 weeks after PVE were respectively 44 +/- 19% and 16 +/- 7% for patients with normal liver and 35 +/- 28% and 9 +/- 3% for those with chronic liver disease. All patients with normal liver and 86% with chronic liver disease experienced hypertrophy after PVE. The postoperative course of patients with normal liver who underwent PVE before right hepatectomy was similar to those with immediate surgery. In contrast, PVE in patients with chronic liver disease significantly decreased the incidence of postoperative complications as well as the intensive care unit stay and total hospital stay after right hepatectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Before elective right hepatectomy, the hypertrophy of FLR induced by PVE had no beneficial effect on the postoperative course in patients with normal liver. In contrast, in patients with chronic liver disease, the hypertrophy of the FLR induced by PVE decreased significantly the rate of postoperative complications.

The use of fresh frozen plasma after major hepatic resection for colorectal metastasis: is there a standard for transfusion?

BACKGROUND

Major hepatic resection is indicated for selected patients with colorectal metastasis to the liver. Transfusion of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) might be required after major hepatectomy because of blood loss or coagulopathy, but there are no standard criteria for the use of FFP in this setting.

METHODS

We identified 260 patients from our prospective database who underwent major (> or =3 Couinaud segments) hepatectomy between May 1997 and February 2001 for colorectal metastasis. FFP use was determined and tested for its relationship to clinical and pathologic factors. A survey on FFP use was sent to 12 other hepatobiliary centers worldwide.

RESULTS

There were 142 (55%) men, 118 (45%) women, and the median age was 63 years. The most common hepatic resections performed were right lobectomy (37%) and extended right lobectomy (33%). There were 83 (32%) patients who received FFP. In these patients, a total of 405 units of FFP were administered with a median of 4 units. The majority of patients who received FFP were transfused within the first two postoperative days, while there were only five (2%) patients who initially received FFP beyond that time. FFP was administered for a median prothrombin time of 16.9. Only one (0.4%) patient required reoperation for bleeding. Right lobectomy and extended right lobectomy were found to predict FFP use on multivariate analysis. Postoperative complications did not correlate with FFP use. The criteria used for FFP administration at other major hepatobiliary centers were found to be variable.

CONCLUSIONS

There is no universal standard for FFP use following major hepatic resection for colorectal metastasis. Our criterion of a prothrombin time of 16-18 seconds is conservative but results only rarely in reoperation for bleeding. Prospective evaluation of a higher threshold for FFP administration, such as an International Normal Ratio of 2.0, should be performed to better define the guidelines for FFP use in patients undergoing major hepatectomy who have normal underlying hepatic parenchyma.

A liver tumour as an incidental finding: differential diagnosis and treatment

BACKGROUND

A liver tumour is occasionally found by coincidence during upper abdominal imaging. The diagnostic and therapeutic strategy for incidental liver tumours is discussed.

METHODS

Review of the literature.

RESULTS

When a liver tumour is found by coincidence, the questions to be answered are whether a definite diagnosis can be reached by imaging alone, and whether treatment is indicated. To answer the first question we have to know the characteristics of the various liver tumours with different imaging techniques, and the added value of more invasive diagnostic procedures. For an answer to the second question, information on the natural course of the specific tumour and on the risks and benefit of treatment is required. Of course, the a priori chance of certain diagnoses depends on the presence or absence of risk factors. Using simple imaging techniques, liver lesions can be categorized as single or multiple and as cystic or solid. Cystic lesions are usually benign, either congenital or parasitic. Solid lesions can be benign or malignant. The most common benign lesions are haemangioma, focal nodular hyperplasia and hepatocellular adenoma. Malignant tumours arising in the normal liver can be primary, in the form of hepatocellular carcinoma, or secondary, resulting from dissemination of a primary tumour outside the liver. All these tumour types can present with typical features in various imaging studies. A definite diagnosis based on imaging alone, however, is not always possible. On the other hand, even histological examination of biopsy samples sometimes does not differentiate between benign and malignant tumours. In the case of an asymptomatic liver tumour the main indication for treatment is proven or suspected malignancy. Large adenomas form a notable exception, these should be removed if they are over 5 cm in diameter or when they grow during follow-up, especially during pregnancy. Therapy will usually consist of liver resection, either partial or, when this is not possible, complete resection followed by liver transplantation. An important caveat is that a surgical procedure without morbidity and mortality does not exist. For symptomatic benign liver tumours the options are the same, but there may be equally effective and less risky alternatives in specific cases, such as embolization for focal nodular hyperplasia and irradiation for haemangioma.

CONCLUSION

The diagnostic and therapeutic approach to incidental liver tumours depends on several factors, including size, aspect and number of the tumours, the clinical background, the a priori chance of a certain type of tumour and especially the risk of malignancy.

Portal vein embolization before right hepatectomy: prospective clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of liver hypertrophy of the future liver remnant volume (FLR) induced by preoperative portal vein embolization (PVE) on the immediate postoperative complications after a standardized major liver resection.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

PVE is usually indicated when FLR is estimated to be too small for major liver resection. However, few data exist regarding the exact quantification of sufficient minimal functional hepatic volume required to avoid postoperative complications in both patients with or without chronic liver disease.

METHODS

All consecutive patients in whom an elective right hepatectomy was feasible and who fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria between 1998 and 2000 were assigned to have alternatively either immediate surgery or surgery after PVE. Among 55 patients (25 liver metastases, 2 cholangiocarcinoma, and 28 hepatocellular carcinoma), 28 underwent right hepatectomy after PVE and 27 underwent immediate surgery. Twenty-eight patients had chronic liver disease. FLR and estimated rate of functional future liver remnant (%FFLR) volumes were assessed by computed tomography.

RESULTS

The mean increase of FLR and %FFLR 4 to 8 weeks after PVE were respectively 44 +/- 19% and 16 +/- 7% for patients with normal liver and 35 +/- 28% and 9 +/- 3% for those with chronic liver disease. All patients with normal liver and 86% with chronic liver disease experienced hypertrophy after PVE. The postoperative course of patients with normal liver who underwent PVE before right hepatectomy was similar to those with immediate surgery. In contrast, PVE in patients with chronic liver disease significantly decreased the incidence of postoperative complications as well as the intensive care unit stay and total hospital stay after right hepatectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Before elective right hepatectomy, the hypertrophy of FLR induced by PVE had no beneficial effect on the postoperative course in patients with normal liver. In contrast, in patients with chronic liver disease, the hypertrophy of the FLR induced by PVE decreased significantly the rate of postoperative complications.

Prospective randomized study of steroids in the prevention of ischaemic injury during hepatic resection with pedicle clamping

BACKGROUND

The major drawback of hepatic pedicle clamping is ischaemia-reperfusion injury with impairment of liver function. Perioperative steroid administration has been advocated to reduce liver damage. The aim of this prospective, randomized study was to determine whether steroid administration can reduce liver injury and improve short-term outcome.

METHODS

Fifty-three patients undergoing liver resection were randomized to a steroid group (group 1) or to a control group (group 2); patients in group 1 received methylprednisolone 30 mg/kg 30 min before liver resection whereas those in group 2 did not. Serum levels of interleukin (IL) 6, total bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and prothrombin time (PT) were measured. Length of stay, and type and number of complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Serum IL-6 levels were significantly lower in the steroid group than in the control group 24 h after surgery. Steroid administration significantly modified AST, ALT and PT levels only in patients with chronic liver disease. Overall and lung-related morbidity were not significantly different between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Steroid administration suppresses serum IL-6 levels, but has no effect on short-term outcome.

Surgery in the patient with liver disease

Management of the surgical patient with liver disease begins with a careful preoperative assessment (Fig. 1). Any clues to liver disease on history and physical examination should be investigated to ascertain the cause of the clinical finding. More data on surgical patients with unexpected liver disease are now available. Patients undergoing emergent surgery are at significant risk of developing liver dysfunction. Child's class still correlates strongly to postoperative complications. Cornerstones of perioperative management in these patients are medical treatment of complications of chronic liver disease, such as ascites; coagulopathy; prevention of encephalopathy; and rapid treatment of dangerous postoperative complications, such as acute acalculous cholecystitis. Evolving knowledge of the effects of anesthesia, improving surgical techniques, and use of better diagnostic tests will help in the reduction of perioperative complications in these patients.

Risk factors for perioperative morbidity and mortality after extended hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Extended hepatectomy with resection of more than four segments is a high-risk operation, especially in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) associated with chronic liver disease. This study evaluated the risk factors for morbidity and mortality following extended hepatectomy for HCC.

METHODS

Preoperative and intraoperative variables of 155 patients who underwent extended hepatectomy for HCC were analysed to identify risk factors for postoperative morbidity and mortality.

RESULTS

The overall morbidity rate was 55.5 per cent (n = 86). Most morbidity was due to ascites or pleural effusion. Significant life-threatening complications occurred in 20.0 per cent (n = 31). The perioperative mortality rate was 8.4 per cent (n = 13). Multivariate analysis found that portal clamping (P = 0.023) and perioperative blood transfusion (P < 0.001) were risk factors for morbidity, whereas perioperative blood transfusion (P < 0.001) was the only risk factor for significant morbidity. Co-morbid illness (P = 0.019) and perioperative blood transfusion (P = 0.004) were risk factors for perioperative mortality.

CONCLUSION

Meticulous operative techniques to minimize blood loss and transfusion, while avoiding a prolonged Pringle manoeuvre, may help reduce postoperative morbidity. Avoidance of perioperative blood transfusion and careful preoperative selection of patients in terms of overall physiological status are important measures to reduce the postoperative mortality rate.

Selective approach to major hepatic resection for hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic liver disease

For large HCCs, partial liver resection remains the best therapeutic option for cure because neither liver transplantation nor percutaneous treatments are indicated. In specialized centers, a better selection of at-risk patients and technical procedures, including the use of intermittent inflow occlusion and the anterior approach, have contributed to improve dramatically the outcome of major liver resection for HCC in CLD. In addition, portal vein embolization has become an important tool to hypertrophy the future liver remnant before major liver resection in cirrhotic patients with apparently normal liver function.

Intraoperative ultrasonography in liver cancer

IOUS has become increasingly important for surgical resection in patients with cirrhosis and healthy liver. IOUS is important in the diagnosis and staging of liver cancer and as an element of the surgical technique, and IOUS can now be considered a fundamental tool for hepatobiliary and other surgical procedures [3]. The American College of Surgeons has recently recognized the need for surgeons to have specific training in ultrasonography. Meanwhile, dedicated monographs on IOUS have been published in the United States, Chile, and Europe [39-42].

Extended hepatic resection for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis: is it justified?

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the perioperative outcomes and long-term survival of extended hepatic resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with cirrhosis.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Hepatic resection is a well-established treatment for HCC in cirrhotic patients with preserved liver function and limited disease. However, the role of extended hepatic resection (more than four segments) for HCC in cirrhotic patients has not been elucidated.

METHODS

Between 1993 and 2000, 45 consecutive patients with histologically confirmed cirrhosis underwent right or left extended hepatectomy for HCC (group A). Perioperative outcomes and long-term survival of these patients were compared with 161 patients with HCC and cirrhosis who underwent hepatic resection of a lesser extent in the same period (group B). All clinicopathologic and follow-up data were collected prospectively.

RESULTS

Group A patients had significantly higher intraoperative blood loss, longer operation time, and longer hospital stay than group B. However, the two groups were similar in overall morbidity and hospital mortality. There were no significant differences in the incidence of liver failure or other complications. The resection margin width was similar between the two groups. Despite significantly larger tumor size in group A compared with group B, long-term survival was comparable between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Extended hepatic resection for HCC can be performed in selected cirrhotic patients with acceptable morbidity, mortality, and long-term survival that are comparable to those of lesser hepatic resection. Extended hepatectomy for large HCC extending from one lobe to the other or central HCC critically related to the hepatic veins is justifiable in cirrhotic patients with preserved liver function and adequate liver remnant.

Extended hepatic resection for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis: is it justified?

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the perioperative outcomes and long-term survival of extended hepatic resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with cirrhosis.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Hepatic resection is a well-established treatment for HCC in cirrhotic patients with preserved liver function and limited disease. However, the role of extended hepatic resection (more than four segments) for HCC in cirrhotic patients has not been elucidated.

METHODS

Between 1993 and 2000, 45 consecutive patients with histologically confirmed cirrhosis underwent right or left extended hepatectomy for HCC (group A). Perioperative outcomes and long-term survival of these patients were compared with 161 patients with HCC and cirrhosis who underwent hepatic resection of a lesser extent in the same period (group B). All clinicopathologic and follow-up data were collected prospectively.

RESULTS

Group A patients had significantly higher intraoperative blood loss, longer operation time, and longer hospital stay than group B. However, the two groups were similar in overall morbidity and hospital mortality. There were no significant differences in the incidence of liver failure or other complications. The resection margin width was similar between the two groups. Despite significantly larger tumor size in group A compared with group B, long-term survival was comparable between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Extended hepatic resection for HCC can be performed in selected cirrhotic patients with acceptable morbidity, mortality, and long-term survival that are comparable to those of lesser hepatic resection. Extended hepatectomy for large HCC extending from one lobe to the other or central HCC critically related to the hepatic veins is justifiable in cirrhotic patients with preserved liver function and adequate liver remnant.

Improved prognosis of postoperative hepatocellular carcinoma patients when treated with functional foods: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Active hexose correlated compound (AHCC) is a newly developed functional food. In vitro experiments have shown that AHCC enhances natural killer cell activity, and may be considered a potent biological response modifier in the treatment of cancer patients. However, the effects of AHCC in a clinical setting have not been reported. We seek to determine whether AHCC can improve the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients following surgical treatment.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was performed from February 1, 1992 to December 31, 2001. A total of 269 consecutive patients with histologically confirmed HCC were studied. All of the patients underwent resection of a liver tumor. Time to treatment failure (disease recurrence or death) and ten parameters related to liver function after surgery were examined.

RESULTS

Of the 269 patients, 113 received AHCC orally after undergoing curative surgery (AHCC group). The AHCC group had a significantly longer no recurrence period (hazard ratio (HR), 0.639; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.429-0.952; P=0.0277) and an increased overall survival rate (HR, 0.421; 95% CI, 0.253-0.701; P=0.0009) when compared to the control group by Cox's multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that AHCC intake can improve the prognosis of postoperative HCC patients.

Quality of complication reporting in the surgical literature

OBJECTIVE

To identify 10 critical elements of accurate and comprehensive reports of surgical complications.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Despite a venerable tradition of weekly morbidity and mortality conferences, inconsistent complication reporting is common in the surgical literature.

METHODS

An analysis of articles reporting short-term outcomes after pancreatectomy, esophagectomy, and hepatectomy was performed. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published from 1975 to 2001 and retrospective series of more than 100 patients published from 1990 to 2001 were reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 119 articles reporting outcomes in 22,530 patients were analyzed. This included 42 RCTs and 77 retrospective series. Of the 10 criteria developed, no articles met all criteria; 2% met 9 criteria, 38% 7 or 8, 34% 5 or 6, 40% 3 or 4, and 12% 1 or 2. Outpatient information (22% of articles), definitions of complications provided (34% of articles), severity grade used (20% of articles), and risk factors included in analysis (29% of articles) were the most commonly unmet quality reporting criteria. Type of study (RCT vs. retrospective), site of institution (U.S. vs. non-U.S.) and journal (U.S. vs. non-U.S.) did not influence the quality of complication reporting.

CONCLUSIONS

Short-term surgical outcomes are routinely included in the data reported in the surgical literature. This is often used to show improvements over time or to assess the impact of therapeutic changes on patient outcome. The inconsistency of reporting and the lack of accepted principles of accrual, display, and analysis of complication data argue strongly for the creation and generalized use of standards for reporting this information.

Locoregional therapies for hepatocellular carcinoma: a critical review from the surgeon's perspective

OBJECTIVE

This article reviews the current results of various locoregional therapies for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), with special reference to the implications for surgeons.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Resection or transplantation is the treatment of choice for HCC, but most patients are not suitable candidates. The past decade has witnessed the development of a variety of locoregional therapies for HCC. Surgeons are faced with the challenge of adopting these therapies in the management of patients with resectable or unresectable HCC.

METHODS

A review of relevant English-language articles was undertaken based on a Medline search from January 1990 to August 2001.

RESULTS

Retrospective studies suggested that transarterial chemoembolization is an effective treatment for inoperable HCC, but its perceived benefit for survival has not been substantiated in randomized trials, presumably because its antitumor effect is offset by its adverse effect on liver function. Nonetheless, it remains a widely used palliative treatment for HCC not amenable to resection or ablative therapies, and it also plays an important role as a treatment of postresection recurrence and as a pretransplant therapy for transplantable HCC. Better patient selection, selective segmental chemoembolization, and treatment repetition tailored to tumor response and patient tolerance may improve its benefit-risk ratio. Transarterial radiotherapy is a less available alternative that produces results similar to those of chemoembolization. Percutaneous ethanol injection has gained wide acceptance as a safe and effective treatment for HCCs 3 cm or smaller. Uncertainty in tumor necrosis limits its potential as a curative treatment, but its repeatability allows treatment of recurrence after ablation or resection of HCC that is crucial to prolongation of survival. Cryotherapy affords a better chance of cure because of predictable necrosis even for HCCs larger than 3 cm, but its use is limited by a high complication rate. There has been recent enthusiasm for heat ablation by microwave, radiofrequency, or laser, which provides predictable necrosis with a low complication rate. Preliminary data indicated that radiofrequency ablation is superior to ethanol injection in the radicality of tumor ablation. The advent of more versatile radiofrequency probes has allowed ablation of HCCs larger than 5 cm. Recent studies have suggested that combined transarterial embolization and heat ablation is a promising strategy for large HCCs. Thus far, no randomized trials comparing various thermoablative therapies have been reported. It is also uncertain whether a percutaneous route, laparoscopy, or open surgery affords the best approach for these therapies. Thermoablative therapies have been combined with resection or used to treat postresection recurrence, and they have also been used as a pretransplant therapy. However, the value of such strategies requires further evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS

Advances in locoregional therapies have led to a major breakthrough in the management of unresectable HCC, but the exact role of the various modalities needs to be defined by randomized studies. Novel thermoablative techniques provide the surgeon with an exciting opportunity to participate actively in the management of unresectable HCC. Locoregional therapies are also useful adjuncts in the management of patients with resectable or transplantable disease. Hence, surgeons must be equipped with the latest knowledge and techniques of ablative therapy to provide the most appropriate treatment for the wide spectrum of patients with HCC.

Extent of liver resection influences the outcome in patients with cirrhosis and small hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

The long-term outcome after resection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is influenced by parameters related to the tumor and the underlying liver disease. However, the extent of the resection, which can be limited or anatomical (including the tumor and its portal territory), is controversial.

METHODS

Among 64 Child-Pugh A patients with cirrhosis who underwent curative liver resection for small HCC (< or = 4 cm) between 1990 and 1996, 34 patients underwent limited resection with a margin width of at least 1 cm, and 30 patients underwent anatomic resection of at least 1 liver segment with complete removal of the portal area containing the tumor. The 2 groups were comparable in terms of epidemiologic and pathologic parameters. The major end points were: (1) in-hospital mortality and morbidity; (2) overall and disease-free survival; and (3) rate and topography of recurrence.

RESULTS

The 30-day mortality (6% vs 7%) and morbidity (52% vs 47%) rates after limited and anatomic liver resection were not statistically different. The 5- and 8-year overall survival rates after limited versus anatomic resection were, respectively, 35% versus 54% (P <.05) and 6% versus 45% (P <.05). The 5- and 8-year disease-free survival rates were, respectively, 26% versus 45% and 0% versus 21% (P <.05). Local recurrence was more frequently observed after limited resections than after anatomic resections (50% vs 10%, P <.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with cirrhosis and a small HCC, anatomic resection achieves better disease-free survival than limited resection without increasing the postoperative risk. Therefore, anatomical resection should be the treatment of choice and considered as the reference surgical treatment compared with other treatments.

Preoperative galactose elimination capacity predicts complications and survival after hepatic resection

OBJECTIVE

To analyze a single center's 6-year experience with 258 consecutive patients undergoing major hepatic resection for primary or secondary malignancy of the liver, and to examine the predictive value of preoperative liver function assessment.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Despite the substantial improvements in diagnostic and surgical techniques that have made liver surgery a safer procedure, careful patient selection remains mandatory to achieve good results in patients with hepatic tumors.

METHODS

In this prospective study, 258 patients undergoing hepatic resection were enrolled: 111 for metastases, 78 for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), 21 for cholangiocellular carcinoma, and 48 for other primary hepatic tumors. One hundred fifty-eight patients underwent segment-oriented liver resection, including hemihepatectomies, and 100 had subsegmental resections. Thirty-two clinical and biochemical parameters were analyzed, including liver function assessment by the galactose elimination capacity (GEC) test, a measure of hepatic functional reserve, to predict postoperative (60-day) rates of death and complications and long-term survival. All variables were determined within 5 days before surgery. Data were subjected to univariate and multivariate analysis for two patient subgroups (HCC and non-HCC). The cutoffs for GEC in both groups were predefined. Long-term survival (>60 days) was subjected to Kaplan-Meier analysis and the Cox proportional hazard model.

RESULTS

In the entire group of 258 patients, a GEC less than 6 mg/min/kg was the only preoperative biochemical parameter that predicted postoperative complications and death by univariate and stepwise regression analysis. A GEC of more than 6 mg/min/kg was also significantly associated with longer survival. This predictive value could also be shown in the subgroup of 180 patients with tumors other than HCC. In the subgroup of 78 patients with HCC, a GEC less than 4 mg/min/kg predicted postoperative complications and death by univariate and stepwise regression analysis. Further, a GEC of more than 4 mg/min/kg was also associated with longer survival.

CONCLUSIONS

This prospective study establishes the preoperative determination of the hepatic reserve by GEC as a strong independent and valuable predictor for short- and long-term outcome in patients with primary and secondary hepatic tumors undergoing resection.

Cryosurgery after chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis

Most cirrhotic patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are not candidates for resection. Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) may ablate a significant portion of the tumor but has a high rate of recurrence. Cryosurgery may permit successful ablation of hepatic tumors but can be complicated by postoperative hemorrhage and is also associated with a significant risk of recurrence. The combination of the two techniques might be beneficial. We evaluated in a prospective study the safety and efficacy of this combination in cirrhotic patients with unresectable HCC. Fifteen patients were included in this study. All but one patient underwent one or several sessions of TACE before cryosurgery. Cryoablation was successfully performed in each patient. The patient who did not undergo preoperative TACE required reoperation for hemorrhage. Another patient with Child-Pugh class B cirrhosis died postoperatively of hepatic and multiorgan failure. At a mean follow-up of 2.5 years, three patients had recurrence of disease, and 13 of 15 patients were alive with the longest survival time being 5 years. The actuarial survival rate at 5 years was 79%. Cryosurgery after TACE is feasible in cirrhotic livers with HCC and can increase the cure rate in large tumors. TACE may reduce the risk of hemorrhage after cryosurgery but can increase the risk of hepatic failure in patients with poor hepatic function.

Improving survival results after resection of hepatocellular carcinoma: a prospective study of 377 patients over 10 years

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether the survival results after resection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have improved within the past decade by an analysis of a prospective cohort of patients over a 10-year period.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

The surgical death rate after resection of HCC has greatly improved in recent years, but the long-term prognosis remains unsatisfactory. It remains unknown whether the survival results after resection of HCC have improved within the past decade.

METHODS

The clinicopathologic and follow-up data of 377 patients who underwent curative resection of HCC between January 1989 and January 1999 were prospectively collected. These patients were categorized according to two time periods: before 1994 (group 1, n = 136) and after 1994 (group 2, n = 241). The two groups were compared for clinicopathologic data and survival results. The prognostic factors for disease-free survival were further analyzed to identify the factors that might have led to improved survival outcomes.

RESULTS

The overall and disease-free survival results were significantly better in group 2 compared with group 1. Patients in group 2 had significantly higher proportions of subclinical presentation, small tumors, and tumors of early pTNM stage. There were also significantly lower frequencies of histologic margin involvement, less intraoperative blood loss, and a lower transfusion rate in group 2. By multivariate analysis, early pTNM stage, subclinical HCC, and no perioperative transfusion were independent favorable prognostic factors for disease-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant improvement of overall and disease-free survival results after resection of HCC has been achieved within the past decade as a result of advances in the diagnosis and surgical management of HCC. Earlier diagnosis of HCC by better imaging modalities, increased detection of subclinical HCC by screening of high-risk patients, and a reduced perioperative transfusion rate were identified as the major contributory factors for the improved outcomes.

Improving survival results after resection of hepatocellular carcinoma: a prospective study of 377 patients over 10 years

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether the survival results after resection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have improved within the past decade by an analysis of a prospective cohort of patients over a 10-year period.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

The surgical death rate after resection of HCC has greatly improved in recent years, but the long-term prognosis remains unsatisfactory. It remains unknown whether the survival results after resection of HCC have improved within the past decade.

METHODS

The clinicopathologic and follow-up data of 377 patients who underwent curative resection of HCC between January 1989 and January 1999 were prospectively collected. These patients were categorized according to two time periods: before 1994 (group 1, n = 136) and after 1994 (group 2, n = 241). The two groups were compared for clinicopathologic data and survival results. The prognostic factors for disease-free survival were further analyzed to identify the factors that might have led to improved survival outcomes.

RESULTS

The overall and disease-free survival results were significantly better in group 2 compared with group 1. Patients in group 2 had significantly higher proportions of subclinical presentation, small tumors, and tumors of early pTNM stage. There were also significantly lower frequencies of histologic margin involvement, less intraoperative blood loss, and a lower transfusion rate in group 2. By multivariate analysis, early pTNM stage, subclinical HCC, and no perioperative transfusion were independent favorable prognostic factors for disease-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant improvement of overall and disease-free survival results after resection of HCC has been achieved within the past decade as a result of advances in the diagnosis and surgical management of HCC. Earlier diagnosis of HCC by better imaging modalities, increased detection of subclinical HCC by screening of high-risk patients, and a reduced perioperative transfusion rate were identified as the major contributory factors for the improved outcomes.

Improving survival results after resection of hepatocellular carcinoma: a prospective study of 377 patients over 10 years

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether the survival results after resection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have improved within the past decade by an analysis of a prospective cohort of patients over a 10-year period.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

The surgical death rate after resection of HCC has greatly improved in recent years, but the long-term prognosis remains unsatisfactory. It remains unknown whether the survival results after resection of HCC have improved within the past decade.

METHODS

The clinicopathologic and follow-up data of 377 patients who underwent curative resection of HCC between January 1989 and January 1999 were prospectively collected. These patients were categorized according to two time periods: before 1994 (group 1, n = 136) and after 1994 (group 2, n = 241). The two groups were compared for clinicopathologic data and survival results. The prognostic factors for disease-free survival were further analyzed to identify the factors that might have led to improved survival outcomes.

RESULTS

The overall and disease-free survival results were significantly better in group 2 compared with group 1. Patients in group 2 had significantly higher proportions of subclinical presentation, small tumors, and tumors of early pTNM stage. There were also significantly lower frequencies of histologic margin involvement, less intraoperative blood loss, and a lower transfusion rate in group 2. By multivariate analysis, early pTNM stage, subclinical HCC, and no perioperative transfusion were independent favorable prognostic factors for disease-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant improvement of overall and disease-free survival results after resection of HCC has been achieved within the past decade as a result of advances in the diagnosis and surgical management of HCC. Earlier diagnosis of HCC by better imaging modalities, increased detection of subclinical HCC by screening of high-risk patients, and a reduced perioperative transfusion rate were identified as the major contributory factors for the improved outcomes.

Guidelines for treatment of liver cancer

In the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma, the range of indications for percutaneous ablation techniques is becoming wider than surgery and intra-arterial therapies. Indeed, whereas for some years only patients with up to three small lesions were treated, with the introduction of the single-session technique under general anesthesia, even patients with more advanced disease are now being treated. Although it is understood that partial resection assures the highest local control, the survival rates after surgery are roughly comparable with percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI). The explanation is due to a balance among advantages and disadvantages of the two therapies. PEI survival curves are better than curves of resected patients who present adverse prognostic factors, and this means that surgery needs a better selection of the patients. Indications for both therapies are reported. Single-session radiofrequency (RF) ablation seems to offer better results in terms of local control and safety than transarterial chemoembolisation (TACE) in multifocal tumours. An open question remains the choice between PEI and other new ablation procedures. In our department, we use RF, PEI and segmental TACE, according to the features of the disease. In the treatment of colorectal liver metastases, the initial survival curves of thermal ablation techniques are promising. However, they are size and site dependent, so partial resection remains the gold standard. An interesting indication seems to be the treatment of breast liver metastases in selected patients.

Hepatic phenylalanine metabolism measured by the [13C]phenylalanine breath test

BACKGROUND

The amino acid clearance test including phenylalanine is known to reflect liver functional reserve, which correlates with surgical outcome; however, the procedure is not clinically useful because of its laborious and time-consuming nature. This study evaluates whether phenylalanine oxidation capacity measured by a breath test could reflect liver functional reserve.

DESIGN

We determined phenylalanine oxidation capacity in 42 subjects using the L-[1-13C]phenylalanine breath test (PBT). The 13CO2 breath enrichment was measured at 10-min intervals for 120 min after oral administration of 100 mg of L-[1-13C]phenylalanine. Subjects were divided into the following three groups according to their plasma retention rate of indocyanine green at 15 min (ICG R15): Group I (ICG R15 < 10%), Group II (ICG R15 10--20%), and Group III (ICG R15 > 20%). First, we determined the parameters of the phenylalanine oxidation capacity that differentiated these groups and then, using these parameters, we compared the PBT with the ICG clearance test, Child-Pugh classification score and standard liver blood tests.

RESULTS

The %13C dose h(-1) at 30 min and cumulative excretion at 80 min were significantly different among the three groups (P < 0.05). These two parameters significantly correlated with the ICG R15, Child-Pugh classification score (P < 0.0001) and results of standard liver blood tests (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Phenylalanine oxidation capacity measured by the PBT was reduced according to the severity of liver injury assessed by the ICG clearance test, Child-Pugh classification, and standard liver blood tests. These results indicate that the PBT can be used as a noninvasive method to determine liver functional reserve.

Liver resection without total vascular exclusion: hazardous or beneficial? An analysis of our experience

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate retrospectively the safety and radicality of liver resection performed without total vascular exclusion (TVE).

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

TVE is recommended for safe liver surgery, at least in the case of resection of the paracaval portion of the liver. However, it has some drawbacks because of its invasiveness.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively evaluated 329 of 471 consecutive patients who underwent liver resection from October 1994 to October 1999. All of these patients had tumors involving segments 1, 7, or 8 or the cranial portion of segment 4, or underwent major hepatectomies that required exposure of the inferior vena cava (IVC), the main trunks of the hepatic veins, or both. Sixty-four patients underwent resection that included segment 1, with or without the reconstruction of the IVC, the hepatic vein, or both.

RESULTS

Three hundred twenty-four of 329 procedures were done under intermittent warm ischemia; no clamping methods were used in 6. TVE was never needed. There were no postoperative 30-day deaths. The complication rate was 25.5%, and only 2.1% had major complications. Only 13 (3.9%) patients required whole blood transfusion. Part of the wall of the IVC was resected in six patients, and the hepatic veins were reconstructed in four. Surgical clearance was achieved in all patients undergoing surgery for a tumor.

CONCLUSIONS

These results show that liver surgery performed without TVE is safe and effective even in aggressive procedures for liver tumors involving the cavohepatic junction. Therefore, TVE should be further restricted to exceptional patients.

Hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common cancer of men and eleventh most common cancer of women world-wide. However, because almost every individual who develops liver cancer dies of the disease, HCC is the third most common cause of the cancer deaths in men and seventh most common in women. The treatment of choice for hepatocellular carcinoma remains surgical resection or liver transplantation, in carefully selected cases. In patients with hepatocellular carcinoma not amenable to surgical intervention a variety of different therapeutic interventions have been investigated. These include direct ablation of the tumour using agents such as ethanol or acetic acid, transcatheter arterial chemoembolization, or systemic chemotherapy. The evaluation of their efficacy is compromised by the paucity of adequately powered randomised clinical trials. The main challenge facing the research community over the next decade is to prioritise the most promising treatments and take these forward into multicentre controlled trials. Even if these fail to improve results, they will help reduce the variation in clinical practice by eliminating anecdotal treatment.

Improving operative safety for cirrhotic liver resection

BACKGROUND

Liver resection in a patient with cirrhosis carries increased risk. The purposes of this study were to review the results of cirrhotic liver resection in the past decade and to propose safe strategies for cirrhotic liver resection.

METHODS

Based on the date of operation, 359 cirrhotic liver resections in 329 patients were divided into two intervals: period 1, from September 1989 to December 1994, and period 2, from January 1995 to December 1999. The patient backgrounds, operative procedures and early postoperative results were compared between the two periods. The factors that influenced surgical morbidity were analysed.

RESULTS

In period 2, patient age was higher and the amounts of blood loss and blood transfused were lower. Although postoperative morbidity rates were similar, blood transfusion requirement, postoperative hospital stay and mortality rate were significantly reduced in period 2. No death occurred in 154 consecutive cirrhotic liver resections in the last 38 months of the study. Prothrombin activity and operative time were independent factors that influenced postoperative morbidity.

CONCLUSION

With improving perioperative assessment and operative techniques, most complications after cirrhotic liver resection can be treated with a low mortality rate. However, more care should be taken if prothrombin activity is low or there is a long operating time.

Percutaneous portal vein embolization increases the feasibility and safety of major liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma in injured liver

OBJECTIVE

To assess the influence of preoperative portal vein embolization (PVE) on the long-term outcome of liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in injured liver.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

On an healthy liver, PVE of the liver to be resected induces hypertrophy of the remnant liver and increases the safety of hepatectomy. On injured liver, this effect is still debated.

METHODS

During the study period, 10 patients underwent preoperative PVE and 19 patients did not before resection of three or more liver segments for HCC in injured liver (cirrhosis or fibrosis). PVE was performed when the estimated rate of remnant functional liver parenchyma (ERRFLP) assessed by computed tomographic scan volumetry was less than 40%.

RESULTS

In all patients, PVE was feasible. There were no deaths or complications. The ERRFLP after PVE was significantly increased compared with the pre-PVE value. Liver resection was performed after PVE in 9 of 10 patients, with surgical death and complication rates of 0% and 45%, respectively. PVE increased the number of resections of three or more segments by 47% (9/19). Overall actuarial survival rates with or without previous PVE (89%, 67%, and 44% vs. 80%, 53%, and 53% at 1, 3 and 5 years, respectively) and disease-free actuarial survival rates (86%, 64%, and 21% vs. 55%, 17%, and 17% at 1, 3, and 5 years respectively) after hepatectomy were comparable.

CONCLUSION

With the use of PVE, more patients with previously unresectable HCC in injured liver can benefit from resection. Long-term survival rates are comparable to those after resection without PVE.

Detection of Epstein-Barr virus DNA in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues from hepatitis C-positive patients

BACKGROUND

We have previously shown that hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication is promoted by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in vitro. The aim of this study was to examine the EBV load in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues from HCV antibody-positive patients.

METHODS

DNA was extracted from paraffin sections from 168 HCC patients. After amplification of a region in the EBV BamHI W sequence by means of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), it was detected by Southern hybridization and semi-quantified. Ten hyperplastic lesions from HCV-positive patients and 35 non-tumorous samples from hepatitis-negative patients served as controls. The PCR results were analyzed on the basis of the patient's hepatitis status. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify clinicopathologic factors for predicting EBV infection in HCC tissues.

RESULTS

More than one copy of EBV DNA per 100 cells was detected in 56 (33%) of the HCC sections. The detection ratio in HCC tissues from HCV antibody-positive patients was 40% (45 of 113), which was significantly higher than that in tissues from HBV surface antigen-positive patients (14%, 5 of 37; P = 0.0018). The patient's serum HBV surface antigen and HCV antibody independently predicted the EBV positivity of HCC tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

These results support our hypothesis that EBV could play an important role in the development of HCV-related HCC.

Effects of amrinone on ischaemia-reperfusion injury in cirrhotic patients undergoing hepatectomy: a comparative study with prostaglandin E1

The effects of amrinone, a selective phosphodiesterase III inhibitor, on liver ischaemia reperfusion injury have not yet been clarified. Forty-five patients with hepatocellular carcinoma who underwent partial liver resection using Pringle's manoeuvre were studied. Patients were divided into three groups: those given amrinone, those given prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and those not treated (controls). An indocyanine green (ICG) clearance test was performed before the operation and three times during surgery: just before induction of liver ischaemia, just after liver resection and 60 min after reperfusion. Blood lactate and base excess were measured at the same times. Systolic and diastolic arterial pressure, heart rate, cardiac index and oesophageal temperature were monitored. Aminotransferase levels were recorded the day before surgery, 1 h after operation and on the first and third postoperative days. These data were compared between groups. The ICG elimination rate, lactate and base excess in the amrinone group differed significantly from those in controls during the observation period (P = 0.03, P = 0.04 and P = 0.03, respectively). The differences between the PGE1 and control groups were not significant. There were no significant differences between the groups in perioperative vital signs, cardiac index or postoperative aminotransferase. Amrinone enhanced intraoperative ICG elimination in cirrhotic patients who underwent liver resection.

Objective evaluation of liver consistency to estimate hepatic fibrosis and functional reserve for hepatectomy

BACKGROUND

The empiric evaluation of liver consistency is currently used to plan the surgical strategy. The aim of this study was to verify the feasibility of the objective measurement of liver consistency and to check its correlation with liver fibrosis and liver functional reserve.

STUDY DESIGN

Fifty-two consecutive patients who underwent hepatic resections in our department were enrolled. The indications for liver resection were hepatocellular carcinoma in 36 patients, metastatic liver tumors in 12 patients, and other conditions in 4 patients. Liver consistency was measured with a new tactile sensor. A fibrosis index was calculated as an expression of the percentage of fibrotic tissue. Liver consistency was compared with the degree of liver fibrosis observed in histologic specimens (fibrosis index) and with liver function parameters.

RESULTS

Liver stiffness showed a significant positive correlation with fibrosis index (r = 0.887, p < 0.0001). Liver stiffness also showed significant positive correlation with the indocyanine green test (r = 0.631, p < 0.0001) by a univariate analysis. The indocyanine green test and platelet count were independently and significantly associated with liver stiffness by a multiple regression analysis. In five patients, the liver stiffness values measured intraoperatively differed markedly from those expected from the indocyanine green test values. In these patients, the operative procedures were finally selected based on the liver stiffness measured with the tactile sensor and good clinical outcomes were obtained.

CONCLUSIONS

These results show for the first time that liver stiffness can be clinically assessed quantitatively by means of the tactile sensor. The tactile sensor adequately estimates liver stiffness and this estimation is well correlated with liver fibrosis and functional reserve. Liver consistency determined objectively in this manner may be useful for optimizing surgical decision making.

Extension of the frontiers of surgical indications in the treatment of liver metastases from colorectal cancer: long-term results

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate retrospectively the long-term results of an approach consisting of performing surgery in every patient in whom radical removal of all metastatic disease was technically feasible.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

The indications for surgical resection for liver metastases from colorectal cancer remain controversial. Several clinical risk factors have been reported to influence survival.

METHODS

Between March 1980 and December 1997, 235 patients underwent hepatic resection for metastatic colorectal cancer. Survival rates and disease-free survival as a function of clinical and pathologic determinants were examined retrospectively with univariate and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

The overall 3-, 5-, 10-, and 15-year survival rates were 51%, 38%, 26%, and 24%, respectively. The stage of the primary tumor, lymph node metastasis, and multiple nodules were significantly associated with a poor prognosis in both univariate and multivariate analyses. Disease-free survival was significantly influenced by lymph node metastasis, a short interval between treatment of the primary and metastatic tumors, and a high preoperative level of carcinoembryonic antigen. The 10-year survival rate of patients with four or more nodules (29%) was better than that of patients with two or three nodules (16%), and similar to that of patients with a solitary lesion (32%).

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical resection is useful for treating liver metastases from colorectal cancer. Although multiple metastases significantly impaired the prognosis, the life expectancy of patients with four or more nodules mandates removal.