Surgical management of hepatocellular carcinoma with tumor thrombi in the inferior vena cava or right atrium

Proton-beam Therapy for Locally Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma With Inferior Vena Cava Tumor Thrombus: Case Report

BACKGROUND/AIM

We report on a case of locally advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accompanied by an inferior vena cava tumor thrombus (IVCTT), treated successfully with proton-beam therapy (PBT).

CASE REPORT

A 63-year-old male presented with a primary, single HCC with IVCTT, without metastasis to the intrahepatic region, lymph nodes, or distant organs. The clinical staging was identified as T4N0M0 Stage IIIB. The patient's liver function was classified as Child-Pugh class A (score: 6), with a modified albumin-bilirubin (mALBI) grade of 2a. The patient had liver cirrhosis due to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a nodular tumor measuring 13.2×8.9×9.8 cm across segments 1, 6, 7, and 8, along with IVCTT. The patient received PBT, with a total dose of 72.6 Gy (relative biological effectiveness) delivered in 22 fractions. Throughout the PBT treatment, the patient experienced no acute toxicities and completed the therapy as planned. Twelve months following PBT, the patient was alive without evidence of local recurrence, lymph node involvement, or distant organ metastasis. The only late toxicity observed was a mild worsening of the mALBI grade.

CONCLUSION

We observed a favorable local response with manageable toxicities in a patient with locally advanced HCC and IVCTT treated with PBT. While this is a single case report, our findings suggest that PBT could be considered a viable treatment option for HCC with IVCTT.

Uncommon using of the pulmonary homograft in oncological case - three years follow up

INTRODUCTION

There are enough cases of colorectal cancer with liver metastasis, but inferior vena cava infiltraion with dissemination to the right atrium is an infrequent event.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

This is the first case of surgical treatment of recurrent liver metastasis with the infiltration to the inferior vena cava and to the right atrium of the heart, using a cryopreserved pulmonary homograft.

DISCUSSION

The choice of a cryopreserved pulmonary homograft was preferred by the need for a radical and wide resection of tissues involved in the metastasis, as well as to potentially reduce the risk of thrombosis in the short- and long-term postoperative period.

CONCLUSION

The use of a cryopreserved homograft in operation undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass allowed us to perform the required volume of radical resection and to replace an extended section of the inferior vena cava.

Fifteen-year survival of a hepatocellular carcinoma extending into the right atrium treated by surgical resection with the heart-first approach under cardiopulmonary bypass: a case report and review of the literature

Hepatocellular carcinoma with tumor thrombus in the inferior vena cava extending into the right atrium is rare and associated with poor prognosis in most cases. Although liver resection with thrombectomy is the only curative treatment, there is no consensus on the therapeutic options for managing these rare cases. The patient was a 67-year-old man with hepatocellular carcinoma with tumor thrombus in the right atrium. In February 2003, cavo-atrial thrombectomy was first performed using cardiopulmonary bypass with heparinization and cardiac arrest. After thrombectomy, right hepatectomy was performed. The total operative time was 10 h 48 min. Moreover, the total blood loss was 7267 mL. The patient recovered uneventfully except for right pleural effusion. He was cancer-free for approximately 9 years. A new lesion in the remnant liver was detected in March 2012. He underwent transcatheter arterial chemoembolization, followed by sequential administration of sorafenib and sunitinib. Radiation therapy was also administered. Eventually, the patient expired 6 years after recurrence. Cavo-atrial thrombectomy under cardiopulmonary bypass prior to hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma with tumor thrombus in the right atrium could be performed safely. Aggressive surgery with the heart-first approach and multidisciplinary treatments even after recurrence led to long-term survival.

Unusual sites of hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis: Case report

Hepatocellular carcinoma is an increasingly frequent cause of cancer-related death. The majority of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma are asymptomatic. In rare cases, patients may present with symptoms of extrahepatic metastases. Early identification can lead to timely treatment and prevent poor outcomes. We report three cases of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma with unusual sites of metastasis, including clival, mandible, and cardiac involvement.

Right hepatectomy under cardiopulmonary bypass for hepatocellular carcinoma with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus: a case report

BACKGROUND

The prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with vascular invasion is extremely poor, especially in patients with tumor thrombus (TT) of the inferior vena cava (IVC), which is an oncological emergency with a high risk of sudden death due to TT extension or migration. Herein, we describe a case of HCC with TT of the IVC that rapidly extended into the right atrium (RA), in which right hepatectomy was performed under cardiopulmonary bypass.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 64-year-old man was diagnosed with HCC with IVC TT, and right hepatic lobectomy was scheduled. While awaiting surgery, he complained of respiratory distress and rushed to the emergency room. The TT had reached the RA, and the patient was in a state of oncologic emergency. We requested the cooperation of the cardiovascular surgery department, and under artificial cardiopulmonary support, the right atrium was incised, and a part of the TT was removed. The IVC was clamped to prevent tumor dispersal, and right hepatic lobectomy was performed. The remaining thrombus was excised along with the right lobe of the liver by incising the IVC. There were no serious postoperative complications, and the patient is alive 1 year and 5 months postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

Hepatic resection with cardiopulmonary bypass could be an option for HCC with TT reaching the RA.

Robot Assisted Laparoscopy Combined with Thoracoscopy in the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Inferior Vena Cava Tumor Thrombus

BACKGROUND

Facing the 0.7-22% incidence rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus (IVCTT), there are usually no obvious symptoms and signs when the tumor thrombus completely blocks the IVCTT in the early stage.1.J Gastroenterol. 29:41-46;2.Hepatogastroenterology. 41:154-157;3.Clin Cardiol. 19:211-213; Once diagnosed, it is the end-stage manifestation without unified treatment for HCC with IVCTT, bringing poor prognosis. Without active treatment, the median survival time is only 3 months. Previous scholars believed that patients with IVCTT should not adopt active surgical treatment. With the advance of technology, active surgical treatment has significantly lengthened the survival time with IVCTT.4.Ann Surg Oncol. 20:914-22;5.World J Surg Oncol. 11:259;6.Hepatogastroenterology. 58:1694-1699; However, for patients with HCC and IVCTT, open surgery was always selected in the past by opening the diaphragm through the combined thoracoabdominal incision to block the superior and subhepatic vena cava, leading long incision and huge trauma. With the development of minimally invasive techniques, laparoscopy thoracoscopy has showed great advantages in the treatment of HCC with IVCTT. A patient underwent laparoscopic with thoracoscopic resection of tumor and cancer thrombectomy after neoadjuvant therapy and then survived after follow-up.7.Ann Surg Oncol. 29:5548-5549 Therefore, it used as a first reported case of robot-assisted laparoscopic with thoracoscopic treatment of HCC complicated inferior vena cava cancer thrombectomy.

METHODS

A 41-year-old man had a liver space-occupying lesion discovered during his medical examination 2 months ago. The diagnosis of HCC with IVCTT was confirmed by enhanced CT and biopsy specimen in the first hospitalization. A combination of TACE, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy plan was applied for the patient after multidisciplinary treatment (MDT). Specifically, Lenvatinib was taken orally 8 mg daily and 160 mg of toripalimab was given intravenously every 3 weeks. His reexamination CT showed that the tumor was more advanced after 2 months of treatment. The surgical operation was performed based on comprehensive consideration. The patient was placed in the left lateral decubitus position, and a thoracoscopic prefabricated the inferior vena cava above diaphragm blocking device was pulled out of the incision. The patient was switched to a supine position with the head of the bed raised 30 degrees. The gallbladder was removed first after entering the abdominal cavity, then prefabricated first hilar blocking band. Sterile rubber glove edges and hemo-lock were used to fabricate the blocking device. The novel hepatic inflow occlusion device is a safe, reliable, and convenient technique that is associated with favorable perioperative outcomes and low risk of conversion.8.Surg Endosc. 34:2807-2813 The liver along the middle hepatic vein was cut to expose the anterior wall of the inferior vena cava, then prefabricated posterior inferior vena cava blocking belt and right hepatic vein blocking belt. Finally, the first portal of liver, right hepatic vein, retrohepatic inferior vena cava, and inferior vena cava above diaphragm were blocked in sequence, so that accomplishing tumor resection and thrombectomy of inferior vena cava. It should be emphasized that before the inferior vena cava is completely sutured, the retrohepatic inferior vena cava blocking device should be released to allow blood flow to flush the inferior vena cava. Moreover, transesophageal ultrasound is required to real-time monitor inferior vena cava blood flow and IVCTT. Some images of the operation are shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 1 (a) Layout of the trocar. ①Make a 3cm small incision between the right anterior axillary line and the midaxillary line, parallel to the fourth and fifth intercostal spaces; a puncture hole in the next intercostal space for endoscope; ②2cm above the intersection of umbilicus horizontal line and axillary front line; ③Intersection of right clavicular midline and umbilical horizontal line; ④Superior margin of umbilicus; ⑤The midpoint of '④ & ⑥'; ⑥2cm below the intersection of left clavicular midline and left costal margin. (b) Prefabricated the inferior vena cava blocking device above diaphragm by thoracoscopic. (c) The smooth tumor thrombus protruding into the inferior vena cava RESULTS: It took 475 min to finish the operation, and the loss of blood was estimated as 300 ml. The patient was discharged from hospital 8 days after the operation without postoperative complication. HCC was confirmed by postoperative pathology.

CONCLUSIONS

Robot surgical system reduces the limitations of laparoscopic surgery by offering a stable three-dimensional view, 10-times-enlarged image, restored eye-hand axis, and excellent dexterity with the endowristed instruments, which has several advantages over open operation such as diminished blood loss, reduced morbidity, and shorter hospital stay.9.Chirurg. 88:7-11;10.BMC Surg. 11:2;11.Minerva Chir. 64:135-146; Furthermore, it could favor the operative feasibility of difficult resections reducing the conversion rate and playing a role to extend the indications of liver resection to minimally invasive approaches. It may provide new curative options in patients deemed inoperable with conventional surgery, such as HCC with IVCTT.12.Biosci Trends. 16:178-188;13.J Hepatobiliary Pancreat Sci. 29:1108-1123.

Liver Resection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma With Tumor Thrombus in the Inferior Vena Cava or Right Atrium: A Large-scale Multicenter Survey Conducted in Japan

OBJECTIVE

To clarify the short and long-term postoperative outcomes and surgical indications for patients accompanied by hepatocellular carcinoma with tumor thrombus (TT) in the inferior vena cava (IVC) or right atrium (RA).

BACKGROUND

These patients are known to have an extremely poor prognosis; however, the postoperative outcomes have not been fully verified because of the rarity of this disease.

METHODS

We contacted 211 specialized centers in Japan and collected data on liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma with TT in the IVC or RA from centers with experience performing surgery for such patients. The patient characteristics, operative procedures, and surgical outcomes were then analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 119 patients from 23 institutions were enrolled; 49 patients had TT in the IVC below the diaphragm (type I), 42 had TT in the IVC above the diaphragm (type II), and 28 had TT entering the RA (type III). The severity and frequency of postoperative complications did not differ among the 3 groups. There was one surgery-related death in the type III group. The median survival times were 2.47 years in the type I group, 1.77 years in the type II group, and 1.02 years in the type III group. Multivariate analysis identified an indocyanine green retention rate at 15 minutes >15% and ≥3 tumors as prognostic factors affecting survival, whereas the use of cardiopulmonary bypass and ≥3 tumors were risk factors for recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

As the postoperative prognosis of patients with type I or type II disease and of patients with no risk factors is relatively good, surgery should be considered for these patient populations.

Stereotactic body radiotherapy plus transcatheter arterial chemoembolization for inoperable hepatocellular carcinoma patients with portal vein tumour thrombus: A meta-analysis

Background

The efficacy and safety of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) plus transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) versus SBRT or TACE alone(monotherapy) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with portal vein tumour thrombus (PVTT) remains controversial. This meta-analysis was performed to provide more powerful evidence for clinical strategies in inoperable HCC with PVTT.

Methods

We searched the PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, China Biology Medicine (CBM), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), VIP Journal Integration Platform (VIP), and WanFang databases for eligible studies. We pooled the results of 1- and 2-year overall survival rates (OSRs), objective response rates (ORRs), and adverse events (AEs) between the two groups and performed a subgroup meta-analysis for study type, control group, treatment order, and the interval between SBRT and TACE.

Results

Nine studies with 10 cohorts involving 938 patients were included in our meta-analysis. SBRT plus TACE yielded significantly higher 1-year OSR (RR, 1.52[95% CI, 1.33–1.74]), 2-year OSR (RR, 2.00 [95% CI: 1.48–2.70]), ORR (RR = 1.22 [95% CI, 1.08–1.37]), and a lower progression disease (PD) rate (RR = 0.45 [95% CI:0.26–0.79]) than monotherapy. No significant differences were detected in CR, PR, SD, or AEs between the two groups. Subgroup analysis regarding study type, control group, and treatment order indicated that compared with monotherapy, the combination of SBRT with TACE was associated with an increase in 1- and 2-year OSRs but not in ORR. In regard to the interval between SBRT and TACE, subgroup analysis found that the combination therapy for patients with an SBRT-TACE interval <28 days was preferable to monotherapy in the 1- and 2-year OSRs, and ORR. However, for patients with an SBRT-TACE interval ≥28 days, no obvious distinctions were observed in the 1-year OSR, 2-year OSR, or ORR between the two groups.

Conclusion

The combination of SBRT with TACE appears to be better than monotherapy in treating HCC with PVTT and should be recommended for inoperable HCC patients with PVTT.

Hepatocellular Carcinoma With Cardiac Metastasis Presenting as Presyncope

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common primary tumor of the liver that is highly invasive and can even invade the portal and hepatic veins in later stages. In this report, we present one such rare case of HCC invading the right atrium. A 69-year-old male patient recently diagnosed with HCC secondary to hepatitis C presented to the hospital after experiencing an episode of near syncope. On examination, he had a distended abdomen consistent with ascites with positive fluid shift, elevated jugular vein distention (JVD), and bilateral pitting lower extremity edema. He had an elevated alkaline phosphatase of 298 U/L (34-104) with a total bilirubin of 2.7mg/dL (0.3-1) and a D-dimer of 1.67ugFEU/mL (<0.5). On admission, CT scan of the chest and abdomen showed extensive invasion of the liver by neoplasm and a large 7 cm mass extending from the intrahepatic inferior vena cava to the right atrium. A transthoracic echocardiogram confirmed this, which also better visualized the cardiac anatomy. Due to the extent of the disease, the patient ultimately opted for palliative care. The prognosis for patients with HCC who have an invasion of the right atrium remains dismal, with a median survival of only five months. Surgical extraction of the thrombus with resection of the tumor, liver transplantation, and systemic chemotherapy are some of the treatment modalities employed in such patients; however, historically, the median survival has remained only a few months. With the advent of new techniques and a better understanding of the disease, this seems to be changing and a curative approach can now be considered.

Concomitant Hepatectomy and Atrial Thrombectomy under Cardiopulmonary Bypass versus Staged Hepatectomy in the Treatment for Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Large Right Atrial Tumor Thrombi

(1) Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with a large right atrium tumor thrombus (RATT) is a rare and critical presentation. Emergency hepatectomy and thrombectomy under cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is life-saving and potentially curative. The aim of this study is to propose an appropriate approach for this condition. (2) Methods: In period A (1998 to 2010, n = 7), hepatectomy and thrombectomy were concomitantly performed, and staged hepatectomy was performed in period B (2011 to 2018, n = 17). (3) Results: The median overall survival time (MOST) in the published studies was 14 months. Moreover, the blood loss, blood transfusion rate, length of ICU stays, and hospital costs were significantly reduced in period B. The MOSTs of patients in period A (n = 6) and period B (n = 17) were 14 vs. 18 months (p = 0.099). The median disease-free survival times (MDFTs) in period A (n = 6) and period B (n = 15) were 8 vs. 14 months (p = 0.073), while the MOSTs in period A and period B were 14 vs. 24 months (p = 0.040). (4) Conclusions: Emergency thrombectomy under CPB and staged hepatectomy 4–6 weeks later may be an appropriate approach for HCC with large RATT. However, the optimal waiting interval requires further investigation.

Simultaneous surgical treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma with tumor thrombus in the inferior vena cava and ischemic heart disease own research and literature review

&lt;b&gt; Introduction:&lt;/b&gt; Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Tumor penetration into the inferior vena cava/right atrium is rare, as it occurs only in 34% of HCC patients. There are no clear guidelines for the management of this stage of disease. &lt;/br&gt;&lt;/br&gt; &lt;b&gt;Aim:&lt;/b&gt; This is a case report of a patient with HCC and tumor thrombus in the inferior vena cava and with advanced coronary artery disease. &lt;/br&gt;&lt;/br&gt; &lt;b&gt; Materials and methods:&lt;/b&gt; The patient was qualified for a simultaneous cardiac surgery and liver resection with removal of the tumor thrombus from the inferior vena cava due to a high risk of sudden cardiac death. The first stage involved aortocoronary bypass followed by a right-sided hemihepatectomy with removal of the tumor thrombus from the inferior vena cava (this part of the operation was performed by extracorporeal circulation). The postoperative period was uneventful. Surgical treatment is one of the therapeutic options that offers a chance to radically remove the tumor and extend the patient&apos;s life. From a standpoint, these operations are extremely difficult and carry a high risk of perioperative complications (up to 40%). At the same time, the patient is at risk of complications due to cancer, such as pulmonary embolism, tricuspid stenosis, and congestive heart failure, which should be considered when choosing a treatment method. A significant number of patients also suffer from chronic conditions that worsen the prognosis. Cardiac diseases combined with tumor thrombus in the inferior vena cava may cause sudden cardiac death. &lt;/br&gt;&lt;/br&gt; &lt;b&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/b&gt; Surgical treatment should be considered in patients with HCC and tumor thrombus in the inferior vena cava, especially in patients with cardiovascular disease burden, as it is not only a chance to prolong life, but also to protect them against life-threatening cardiac complications.

Favorable response to multimodal treatment in hepatocellular carcinoma with inferior vena cava and right atrial tumor thrombus and left adrenal gland metastasis: A case report and literature review

RATIONALE

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth most common cause of cancer-related deaths and the sixth most commonly diagnosed cancer globally. Interdisciplinary and multimodal treatment strategies are essential for a successful therapy in HCC. Established therapies for HCC treatment include surgical resection, liver transplantation, local ablative therapies, transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), immunotherapy, and radiotherapy (RT).

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 52-year-old male patient did an ultrasound scan and found a large mass within the right lobe of the liver and gallstones in December 2018. He had a history of chronic hepatitis C virus infection (30 years) and was treated with sofosbuvir (400 mg, q.d.) for 1 year. The patient never had any symptoms of gallstones. Enhanced abdominal computed tomography of this patient showed a heterogeneous irregular mass with the largest measurement of up to 13.7 × 11.1 cm in size in the right lobe of the liver, meanwhile also had inferior vena cava (IVC) tumor thrombus, right atrial (RA) tumor thrombus, and left adrenal gland metastasis. The laboratory test data revealed that the serum tumor marker α-fetoprotein was 2.63 ng/mL, cancer antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9) was 34.40 U/mL, and protein induced by Vitamin K absence was 391.94 mAU/mL.

DIAGNOSIS

HCC with IVC tumor thrombus, RA tumor thrombus, and left adrenal gland metastasis, and gallstones.

INTERVENTIONS

He was hospitalized and received TACE treatment, oral TKIs, intravenous drip programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) inhibitor and RT.

OUTCOMES

The patient showed a favorable response after consecutive treatment with TACE, TKIs, PD-1 inhibitor, and RT. Until now, the patient has survived 34 months since the diagnosis of the disease.

LESSONS

Our case suggests that TACE combined with TKIs, PD-1 inhibitor, and RT may be a suitable treatment option for advanced HCC patients with IVC tumor thrombus and/or RA tumor thrombus, and/or adrenal gland metastasis.

Tumor Lysis Syndrome Following Thoracotomy Under Cardiopulmonary Bypass in a Case of Hepatocellular Carcinoma With Right Atrial and Inferior Vena Cava Tumor Thrombus

Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) occurring after surgical resection of right atrium (RA) and inferior vena cava (IVC) tumor thrombus is a very rare but insidious condition. We report a case of hepatocellular carcinoma who developed TLS after uneventful excision of RA+IVC tumor thrombus under median sternotomy and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Although the procedure was not expected to arouse massive tumor cell necrosis, post-operative course was complicated by metabolic acidosis, hypocalcemia, and progressive hyperkalemia indicative of TLS. Unfortunately, laboratory diagnosis of TLS was delayed under conditions of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) for peri-operative acute renal failure. Despite all efforts, the patient died 36 hours after surgery due to lethal arrhythmia and disseminated infarction of the kidneys, spleen, and liver.

Vascular surgery in liver resection

Vascular surgery in liver resection is a standard part of liver transplantation, but is also used in oncological liver surgery. Malignant liver tumors with vascular involvement have a poor prognosis without resection. Surgery is currently the only treatment to provide long-term survival in advanced hepatic malignancy. Even though extended liver resections are increasingly performed, vascular involvement with need of vascular reconstruction is still considered a contraindication for surgery in many institutions. However, vascular resection and reconstruction in liver surgery-despite being complex procedures-are safely performed in specialized centers. The improvements of the postoperative results with reduced postoperative morbidity and mortality are a result of rising surgical and anesthesiological experience and advancements in multimodal treatment concepts with preconditioning measures regarding liver function and systemic treatment options. This review focuses on vascular surgery in oncological liver resections. Even though many surgical techniques were developed and are also used during liver transplantation, this special procedure is not particularly covered within this review article. We provide a summary of vascular reconstruction techniques in oncological liver surgery according to the literature and present also our own experience. We aim to outline the current advances and standards in extended surgical procedures for liver tumors with vascular involvement established in specialized centers, since curative resection improves long-term survival and shifts palliative concepts to curative therapy.

Hepatocellular carcinoma with inferior vena cava and right atrium thrombus: A case report

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with inferior vena cava and right atrium thrombus is rare, accounting for approximately 1.4%-4.9% of cases. These patients are rarely reported, but the condition is being increasingly discovered with advances in imaging techniques, and their prognosis is extremely pessimistic with no current effective treatment. This condition is further associated with unexpected sudden death by cardiac arrest and acute large area pulmonary embolism.

CASE SUMMARY

A 34-year-old man with advanced HCC with a hepatic vein thrombus extending into the right atrium had a long-term, disease-free survival following 5-mo sequential treatment combined with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization and curative liver resection. No severe adverse effects were encountered, such as massive hemorrhage or pulmonary embolism. The proper selection of operative method is an important factor.

CONCLUSION

HCC with a tumor thrombus extending into the right atrium has a significant impact on the survival of patients. Thrombectomy combined with adjuvant therapy may be beneficial for these patients.

Treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma with tumor thrombosis in the hepatic vein or inferior vena cava: A comprehensive review

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer with a high mortality rate worldwide. The percentage of HCC patients with vascular invasion is high. However, tumor thrombus in the hepatic vein (HVTT) has a lower incidence than tumor thrombus in the portal vein (PVTT). Conventionally, HCC patients with HVTT are treated the same as HCC patients with PVTT and offered sorafenib or other systemic agents. However, according to recent studies, it is evident that HCC with HVTT shows different outcomes when classified into different subgroups. In this review, we discuss the recent progress and changes in treatment of HCC with HVTT.

Complete Response in Metastatic Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Cardiac and Lung Involvement via Multimodality Treatment

Background: Until recently, advanced HCC patients with major vessel and cardiac involvement have had an extremely poor prognosis without satisfactory treatment. Case presentation: A 63-year-old Taiwanese male presented with metastatic HCC with RA and IVC thrombi, as well as pulmonary metastases that were successfully treated by multimodal management, encompassed by surgical thrombectomy, concurrent systemic sorafenib and locoregional therapies, and immunotherapy. The patient has achieved a complete response over the past 33 months. Conclusions: Through this case report, which shows a successful outcome via multimodal management, a more aggressive approach should be considered when a patient is expected to tolerate the risks and side effects of various treatments.

Hepatic Resection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in the Era of Molecular-targeted Agents and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Japan

Hepatic resection or liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents the only chance for achieving a cure. For the past several decades in Japan, aggressive hepatic resection has been performed for advanced HCC, with consequent good outcomes. According to the 21st Nationwide Follow-Up Survey of Primary Liver Cancer in Japan, 38.3% of patients were treated with hepatic resection or liver transplantation as the initial treatment. The median overall survival of patients who underwent surgery was 57.0 months, and the 5- and 10-year survival rates were 48.4% and 25.2%, respectively. Since 1964, a total of 10,038 liver transplants (595 deceased-donor and 9,443 living-donor transplants) have been performed in Japan. Neoplastic disease, including HCC, was reported to be the third-most common cause of liver transplantation, and the cumulative 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year survival rates of living-donor liver transplants for HCC were 85.0%, 76.2%, 70.9%, and 63.1%, respectively. However, molecular-targeted agents, including sorafenib and lenvatinib, have recently been developed. Furthermore, a significantly longer survival with atezolizumab, which is an immune checkpoint inhibitor, plus bevacizumab was observed compared with sorafenib for unresectable HCC patients. Herein, we review the current status of hepatic resection and liver transplantation for HCC in Japan and discuss the role of hepatic resection in the era of molecular-targeted agents and immune checkpoint inhibitors, as well as the need for a definition of borderline resectable-HCC.

Twelve-Year Survival After Resection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Right Atrial Tumor Thrombus

INTRODUCTION

A large hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with macrovascular invasion is generally considered to have poor prognosis due to unfavorable tumor biology andsuch patients are relegated to palliative options. This report describes long term survival after surgery in a patient with HCC and tumor thrombus in the rightatrium.

METHODS

Case records of the patient, details of follow up visits and surveillance computed tomography scans performed were reviewed. A brief discussion of thesurgical strategy adopted along with outcome of similar cases in literature is presented.

RESULTS

A 60 year old man presented with a HCC in segments 4, 5 with extension of tumor into the middle, left hepatic veins, inferior vena cava and right atrium.Patient underwent extraction of the tumor thrombus from the right atrium under cardiopulmonary bypass along with extended left hepatectomy. He receivedthree cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy with Gemcitabine, Oxaliplatin and Interferon. There was a parietal wall recurrence after 1 year and 10 months whichwas excised. Since then he remains well and is on regular follow up for more than 12 years from his index surgery with no evidence of disease, making himthe longest known survivor with such an advanced presentation.

CONCLUSION

This is an unusual instance where aggressive resection for HCC with right atrial tumor thrombus has resulted in an exceptionally long survival.

Indication of Surgical Hepatectomy for the Patients of Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Inferior Vena Cava Tumor Thrombosis

The prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) presenting with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus (IVCTT) is extremely poor. The aim of this study was to reveal the postoperative course and to identify patients who have survived surgical hepatectomy among HCC patients with IVCTT. Between January 2006 and December 2018, 643 patients underwent surgical hepatectomy for HCC at Kobe University Hospital. Among them, 20 patients were categorized as Vv3 according to the Japanese staging system. We retrospectively collected detailed data on these patients. The statistical, clinical, and pathological data were recorded prospectively and analyzed retrospectively. The median survival time was 9.8 months. Among all patients, 11 (55%) achieved R0 resection, and only two survivors were from this group. The number of tumors (solitary vs. multiple; p=0.050) and pathological Vp (pVp0 vs. other; p=0.009) were identified as risk factors for overall survival in the univariate analysis. In the multivariate analysis, pathological Vp (pVp0 vs. other; p=0.037) was identified as a significant prognostic factor for survival. Pathological Vp affected overall survival among IVCTT patients; the median survival time was 53.7 months with pVp0, 10.2 months with pVp1, and 8.8 months with pVp2-4 (p=0.035). For patients with IVCTT, surgical hepatectomy should be indicated only for those who do not have portal vein invasion and could achieve R0 resection.

Palliating Symptoms in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma Involving the Inferior Vena Cava With External Beam Radiation Therapy

Introduction

Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) involving the inferior vena cava (IVC) and/or right atrium (RA) often experience debilitating symptoms, including lower extremity edema, dyspnea on exertion, shortness of breath at rest, chest pain, and ascites, that impact quality of life. The efficacy of external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) in palliating these symptoms is unclear. Thus, we sought to assess the effectiveness of EBRT in the palliation of symptoms and treatment outcomes in this patient population.

Materials and methods

All patients with HCC that compressed or invaded the IVC, received EBRT, and had a two-month follow-up visit to assess clinical response at our institution between 2010 and 2018 were analyzed. Patient demographics and clinical features were retrieved from the electronic medical record. Local control, local progression-free survival, and overall survival (OS) were measured from the last day of EBRT and calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

Results

Twenty-six patients with invasion or compression of the IVC were identified, 11 of whom (42%) had involvement of the RA. The median follow-up was 3.6 months. Five patients (19%) were treated with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) (all with five fractions) and 21 patients (81%) were treated with fractionated radiation therapy (range 10-16 fractions), both to a median dose of 3,000 cGy (range 2500-4000 cGy for SBRT, 2500-3750 cGy for fractionated radiation therapy). Significant proportions of patients experienced symptomatic relief from peripheral edema (54%), dyspnea on exertion (57%), shortness of breath (83%), chest pain (67%), and ascites (25%) after receiving EBRT. Additionally, they experienced few toxicities, with zero experiencing grade three or higher toxicities. One-year and two-year local control rates were 11.5% and 7.7%, respectively, and the median local progression-free survival was 4.8 months. One-year and two-year OS rates were 38.4% and 38.4%, respectively.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that EBRT should be considered as a potential treatment option for patients with HCC invading or compressing the IVC with or without involvement of the RA. EBRT was very well-tolerated and effectively palliated a variety of symptoms in patients with advanced disease.

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma with a tumor thrombus extending from the inferior vena cava to the right atrium: a case report

Background

Vascular invasion involving a tumor thrombus in the inferior vena cava and/or right atrium is an unfavorable prognostic factor after intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma resection. We report an intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma case with a tumor thrombus extending from the left hepatic vein via the inferior vena cava to the right atrium.

Case presentation

A 58-year-old man with epigastralgia was referred to our hospital after an emergent transcatheter arterial embolization was done following the radiological diagnosis of a ruptured hepatic tumor. The serum concentrations of carcinoembryonic antigen, carbohydrate 19-9, duke pancreatic monoclonal antigen type 2, and cytokeratin-19 fragments were elevated; meanwhile those of alfa-fetoprotein and des-γ-carboxy prothrombin were within normal ranges. A contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan showed a heterogeneously enhanced tumor, 13 cm in diameter, in the left lobe of the liver, enlarged lymph nodes along the lesser curvature of the stomach, and a tumor thrombus extending from the left hepatic vein via the inferior vena cava to the right atrium. We performed a left hemihepatectomy and tumor thrombectomy under total hepatic vascular exclusion to reduce the risk of sudden death. After dissection of the liver parenchyma along the left side of the middle hepatic vein, except for the left hepatic vein, the inferior vena cava just below the right atrium could be clamped by pulling down the left lobe of the liver toward the caudal side. The thrombus could be removed by incising the inferior vena cava under total hepatic vascular exclusion. Microscopic examination showed a tubular adenocarcinoma. Immunohistochemical staining was positive for cytokeratin-7, cytokeratin-19, and epithelial membrane antigen, but negative for arginase-1, glypican-3, and hepatocyte. The patient was pathologically diagnosed with an intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma with a tumor thrombus in the inferior vena cava. Adjuvant chemotherapy with tegafur/gimeracil/oteracil was administered for 1 year. The patient remained in good health without cancer recurrence for over 4 years after the operation.

Conclusion

An aggressive surgical approach may be indicated for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma with a tumor thrombus in the inferior vena cava and/or right atrium to avoid the risk of impending death.

Efficacy of Local Treatments for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Involving the Inferior Vena Cava and/or Right Atrium

Major vessel invasion is frequently observed in locally advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The most commonly involved major vessel is the portal vein; however, approximately 4% of patients with HCC have inferior vena cava (IVC) and/or right atrium (RA) invasion. Although these conditions have dismal prognoses, local treatments have not been regularly administered because they may affect systemic circulation. Owing to recent technological advances, various local treatments including surgery and external radiotherapy have increasingly been performed in these patients. Since irradiating tumorous lesions in the liver while preserving normal tissues is possible and major vessels are relatively resistant to radiation, external radiotherapy has been a feasible palliative modality for treating vessel-invasive HCC. In addition, systemic fatal complications that were initially a cause of concern have become rare after radiotherapy. While invasive procedures such as extracorporeal circulation or hepatic vascular exclusion may be required, pioneering surgeons have performed surgical resections in selected patients and have obtained promising results. Surgery has shown the best survival outcomes compared to other treatment options including radiotherapy, but the possibility of perioperative morbidity should be considered. In addition, a combination of local treatment and novel systemic agents, which demonstrated better survival and response rates than sorafenib, is expected to maximize therapeutic effects. In this review, we have discussed the most recent treatments for HCC with IVC and/or RA involvement and have provided information intended to guide therapeutic decisions and facilitate future research.

Hepatocellular carcinoma with atrial tumor thrombus presenting as myxoma: Resection under cardiopulmonary bypass

Surgical resection for Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with atrial tumor thrombus is a rare life saving procedure. A case of left lateral segment liver tumor (HCC) with atrial tumor thrombus resected with use of cardio-pulmonary bypass is presented.

Long-Term Survival under Arterial Chemoembolization and Sorafenib of a Patient with Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Tumor Atrial Thrombus: A Case Report and Literature Review

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is considered to be the fourth most frequent cause of cancer-associated death globally. HCC might be associated, especially in advanced stages, with the formation of tumor thrombus (TT), which can be located in the portal vein, as well as in hepatic and/or inferior vena cava (IVC) veins. Nevertheless, the extension of TT to the right atrium (RA) is infrequent with an unfavorable prognosis. We present a rare case of a male patient with HCC and IVC TT extending to the RA. The atrial thrombus was the first manifestation of HCC diagnosed by cardiac ultrasound. So far, the patient has undergone 4 courses of transarterial chemoembolization in combination with systemic therapy with sorafenib, and under this therapeutic approach long-term survival has been achieved.

Hepatocellular carcinoma with right atrial tumor thrombus

BACKGROUND

 Hepatocellular carcinoma with right atrial tumor thrombus is uncommon but with a dismal prognosis.

METHODS

 By comprehensive retrieval of literature published between 2000 and 2019, 53 reports were obtained with 187 patients recruited into this study. The extracted data included patient characteristics, tumor characteristics, treatment, follow-up and outcomes. Statistical analyses applied were student t, Fisher exact and I² tests. Patients were devided into 6 groups according to treatment of choices: transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, interventional treatment and supportive care.

RESULTS

 The overall survival rate of this cohort was 40.8 %. The survival rate of patients receiving TACE was 33.3 % and that of surgical patients was 41.9 %. The survival time of patients with TACE was longer than surgical patients, but lack of a statistical significance. Patients had a follow-up of 15.7 ± 16.6 (median 10) months. The patients receiving radiotherapy had the longest follow-up among all groups. Intra- and/or extrahepatic recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma was the major morbidity. The mortality rates in a decremental sequence for patients receiving different treatments were supportive care > radiotherapy > surgery > TACE > interventional treatment. No difference was found in mortality between patients reported from case reports and those from non-case reports.

CONCLUSIONS

 Advanced hepatocellular carcinoma with right atrial thrombus is an aggressive malignancy. Based on the results of median survival time, radiotherapy and TACE seemed to be associated with an improved prognosis and possible better survival.

Diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma with inferior vena cava/right atrium tumor thrombus

Although tumor thrombus (TT) infringement of the inferior vena cava (IVC) and right atrium (RA) is rarely observed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the prognosis for this condition is extremely poor, with a median survival time of several months, given that the condition is often diagnosed at an advanced tumor stage or combined with multiple systemic metastases. Furthermore, there is no established effective treatment for the condition. However, some investigators insist that active treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy (systemic or intra-arterial), radiation therapy, best supportive care or a combination of these, may help prolong overall survival time in these patients. The management of patients with advanced HCC and a TT extending into the RA and IVC is extremely difficult and risky. To this end, the present review assessed the literature on the clinical features and treatments of this condition in recent years, with the aim of providing assistance for clinical work.

Resection of recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma with thrombi in the inferior vena cava, right atrium, and phrenic vein: a report of three cases

Background

Prognosis for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma with a tumor thrombus in the inferior vena cava or right atrium is extremely poor due to cancer progression, pulmonary embolism, and congestion of the circulatory system caused by right heart failure. Surgical resection of the tumor thrombi may potentially yield better results than non-surgical treatments through prevention of sudden death. However, the benefits of surgical resection in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and a tumor thrombus extending to the inferior vena cava, right atrium, and potentially in the phrenic vein are unclear. Here, we report three such cases.

Case presentation

Of the total 136 patients who underwent hepatectomies for hepatocellular carcinoma in our institution, three patients with prior hepatectomies and recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma had tumor thrombi in the inferior vena cava, right atrium, and phrenic vein. Surgical resections were performed, as there was a possibility of sudden death, despite the risk of leaving residual tumor. For all patients, we performed resection of the tumor thrombi in the inferior vena cava and right atrium and combined diaphragm resection. Surgical resection was performed using the total hepatic vascular exclusion technique in all cases. Additional passive veno-venous bypass was also performed in two cases, in which complete tumor resections could not be achieved. The microscopic surgical margins of the combined resected diaphragms were positive in all cases. Progression-free survival was 20.2, 3.8, and 9.5 months for case 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The respective overall postoperative survival was 98.0, 38.9, and 30.9 months. The patients died due to liver cirrhosis, acute heart failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma, respectively. Sudden death did not occur for any of the patients.

Conclusion

Surgical resections may extend prognosis for patients with recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma with tumor thrombi in the inferior vena cava, right atrium, and phrenic vein, although the indications should be considered carefully.

Hepatocellular Carcinoma With Tumor Thrombus to the Hepatic Veins and the Right Atrium: A Case Report and Review Exploring Various Presentations and Treatment Options

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer and cancer-related deaths in the world. Some of the risk factors for the development of HCC include Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Hepatitis C virus (HCV), chronic alcoholism, autoimmune hepatitis, among others. One manifestation of HCC includes tumor thrombus (TT) to the right atrium (RA), which occurs in 0.67-4.1% of patients with HCC. Our case focuses on a unique presentation of HCC with RA TT with initial symptoms of nausea and vomiting without signs of cardiac decompensation or hemodynamic instability. Although there is no definitive treatment for TT to the RA, there are a variety of proven avenues of management of HCC TT to the RA, especially pertaining to patients with adequate liver function.

A 63-year old female with a past medical history of untreated HCV and alcohol abuse with no previously known liver disease or history of liver decompensation, presented with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Initial labs revealed hypovolemic hyponatremia and transaminitis with negative ethanol levels. The model for end-stage liver disease (MELD-Na) score was calculated at 27, and she had a Child-Pugh class C score. Follow up labs were significant for elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). Triple-phase CT of the liver revealed a large liver mass with extension into the RA with TT and necrosis of the liver. An echocardiogram revealed a RA mass versus thrombus. Throughout her hospitalization, she never admitted to cardiac symptoms, including shortness of breath, palpitations, or chest pain. No tachycardia was noted, and her blood pressure remained stable. She was not a candidate for surgery or chemotherapy. The patient declined any heroic measures, and palliative care was consulted for further management. She was transferred to hospice, where she died one week later. 

There are numerous etiologies and clinical presentations of HCC with TT to the RA. Its disease course is insidious and may not present as symptomatic until there is a sizable tumor burden. Therefore, treatment options for HCC with TT to the RA are reliant on HCC screening for at-risk populations, early diagnosis, and each individual patient’s baseline liver function.

Nomogram for Predicting Long-Term Survival after Synchronous Resection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Inferior Vena Cava Tumor Thrombosis: A Multicenter Retrospective Study

Background

Although surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) complicated with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus (IVCTT) may improve survival for some patients, prognostic markers remain elusive because of its rarity. We constructed a prognostic nomogram which predicts individualized survival benefit of curative-intent surgery for HCC patients with IVCTT.

Methods

According to abdominothoracic anatomy of inferior vena cava (IVC), IVCTT can be divided into 3 types: inferior diaphragmic (ID), superior diaphragmic (SD), and intracardiac type (IC). Data of 64 HCC patients with IVCTT who underwent curative-intent surgery between 2008 and 2015 in four centers in China were analyzed retrospectively. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were conducted to select variables for the construction of a prognostic nomogram. Predictive accuracy and discriminative ability were examined by concordance index (C-index) and calibration curve.

Results

Of 64 patients in the IVCTT classification, 37 (57.8%) were classified as ID type, 15 (23.4%) as SD type, and 12 (18.8%) as IC type. The 1-, 2-, 3-, and 5-year disease-specific survival (DSS) rates for patients in ID, SD, and IC groups were 94.4%, 55.6%, 71.4%, and 30.0%; 27.8%, 21.4%, 7.1%, and 0%; and 8.3%, 0%, 0%, and 0%, respectively. Independent factors included in the nomogram were ECOG performance status, AFP level ≥ 400 μg/L, tumor size ≥ 10 cm, portal vein tumor thrombosis, and IVCTT classification. The C-index of the nomogram was 0.812 (95% CI 0.761–0.873). The calibration plot for DSS probability showed excellent agreement between the prediction by nomogram and actual observation.

Conclusions

Curative-intent surgery should be carefully evaluated and suggested according to our novel IVCTT classification. We have developed a visual web-based nomogram model to predict oncological prognosis of curative-intent surgery for HCC patients with IVCTT.

Liver resection with thrombectomy for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and tumour thrombus in the inferior vena cava or right atrium

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with tumour thrombus (TT) in the inferior vena cava (IVC) or right atrium (RA) is a rare advanced disease state with a poor prognosis. The aim of this study was to examine survival after surgical resection.

METHODS

Patients with HCC and TT of either the IVC or RA, who underwent liver resection between February 1997 and July 2017, were included. Their short- and long-term outcomes and surgical details were analysed retrospectively.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven patients were included; 16 patients had TT in the IVC below the diaphragm, eight had TT in the IVC above the diaphragm, and 13 had TT entering the RA. Twelve patients had advanced portal vein TT (portal vein invasion (Vp) greater than Vp3 and Vp4), ten had bilobar disease, and 12 had extrahepatic disease. There were no in-hospital deaths, although two patients died within 90 days. Median survival did not differ between patients who had resection with curative intent (18·7 months) and those with residual tumour in the lung only (20·7 months), but survival was poor for patients with residual tumour in the liver (8·3 months).

CONCLUSION

Liver resection with thrombectomy for advanced HCC with TT in the IVC or RA is safe and feasible, leading to moderate survival.

Hybrid-ALPPS followed by Ante Situm with Cardiopulmonary Bypass: Rapid Liver Augmentation and Complex Surgery

BACKGROUND

Tumors invading the inferior vena cava (IVC) and hepatic veins pose a challenge for surgeons. Hannoun et al.1 were able to show that the resection of these tumors can be done under hypothermia in the Ante-Situm position. Additionally, not only the localization of the tumor but the remaining volume of the remnant liver (FLR) needs to be considered. Schnitzbauer et al.2 were able to induce massive liver hypertrophy in a short period, combining an in-situ split with a portal vein ligation (ALPPS). As this controversial technique has evolved, a safe ALPPS can be performed nowadays.3 To our knowledge, this is the first case that combines a laparoscopic partial ALPPS with an extended resection requiring cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB).

METHODS

A 58-year-old female presented with a known chronic hepatitis C suffered from a pulmonary embolism, caused by a large, central hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with invasion of the suprahepatic IVC and continuous growth into the right atrium (RA). Due to the small FLR, we performed a laparoscopic hybrid-partial-ALPPS with an embolization of the right portal vein. We were able to remove the mass with an Ante-Situm position and resection of the RA under CPB.

RESULTS

The postoperative course was complicated by posthepatic liver failure and bleeding. However, after 28 days the patient was discharged in a good medical condition.

CONCLUSIONS

Although tumors invading the suprahepatic IVC and RA pose a surgical challenge, patients can be treated adequately with multidisciplinary management. Advanced HCCs have high recurrence rates; however, a R0 resection might improve overall survival. Wakayma et al. showed in their retrospective study with 13 patients a median survival of 30.8 months when a complete resection was performed.4 Our patient had a disease-free survival of 11 months and is still alive after 24 months. Taking the complexity of the operation and the oncological prospect with a probable recurrence into account, indication for surgery needs to be considered on an individual basis.

Effectiveness and feasibility of external beam radiotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma with inferior vena cava and/or right atrium involvement: a multicenter trial in Korea (KROG 17-10)

Purpose: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) involving the inferior vena cava (IVC) and/or right atrium (RA) can affect systemic circulation, causing fatal complications. Standard treatment is yet to be established due to its rarity and intractability. We sought to determine the clinical efficacy of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) in HCC treatment.Patients and methods: Our group designed this multicenter trial and recruited patients with HCC and IVC and/or RA involvement. Forty-nine patients from six institutions received EBRT with median dose of 46.7 (range: 35.4-71.5) Gy during 2009-2016. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS), and relevant predictors were evaluated.Results: Median follow-up length was 9.3 (range: 1.1-119) months. Median survival, 1-, and 2- year OS rates were 10.1 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 7.5-12.7 months), 43.5%, and 30.1%, respectively. Significant factors affecting OS were alpha-fetoprotein level ≥300 ng/mL (risk ratio [RR]: 2.34, p = .025), tumor multiplicity (RR: 2.56, p = .028), and patient volume of institutions (high- vs. middle volume centers) (RR: 3.58, p = .001). Local control rates were 88.7% and 74.5% at 1 and 2 years, respectively. The most common first failure site was the lung (21/49, 42.9%) followed by liver outside the EBRT field (17/49, 34.7%). One case of possible radiation-induced liver disease was noted, with transient alkaline phosphatase elevation.Conclusion: EBRT can yield favorable local control in HCC with IVC and/or RA involvement. Systemic treatment may be more indicated as factors reflecting tumor aggressiveness were significant, and first distant failure is common.

Proton beam therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma associated with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus

PURPOSE

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus (IVCTT) is rare and regarded as an advanced disease stage with poor prognosis. Treatment effect data regarding HCC with IVCTT is scarce and clear evidence has not been established. This study, therefore, aims to examine the safety and effectiveness of proton beam therapy (PBT) for HCC patients with IVCTT.

METHODS

From January 2005 to December 2014, a total of 21 HCC patients with IVCTT were analyzed. The total irradiation doses ranged from 50 to 74 (median 72.6) gray relative biological effectiveness.

RESULTS

The follow-up period was 4-120 (median 21) months. Regarding acute toxicities, dermatitis of grade 1-2 was observed in all patients, while no grade 3 or higher late toxicity events were encountered. The overall survival (OS) rates for all patients were 62%, 33%, and 19% at 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively. No local recurrences for the treated lesions, including IVCTT, were observed. According to univariate analysis, IVCTT extension type was not associated with prognosis, but only tumor number significantly affected the OS rate (p = 0.003). For 10 single lesion patients, the longest survival time was 120 months with OS rates of 82%, 64%, and 36% at 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively.

CONCLUSION

PBT is safe and effective for HCC patients with IVCTT, especially those with single lesion status. PBT is an important treatment option for HCC patients with IVCTT.

Progress in research of hepatocellular carcinoma with tumor thrombus

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with tumor thrombus is a hot and difficult issue in the study of HCC, and many key issues concerning this condition are still controversial. Clinical guidelines and treatment recommendations vary widely between the East and the West, and efficacy remains unsatisfactory. In recent years, with the progress of comprehensive tumor treatment concept and the rapid development of surgical techniques, perioperative management, interventional therapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and other treatment methods, the overall survival rate of HCC with tumor thrombus has been significantly extended and encouraging efficacy has been achieved. However, the core issues on how to select individualized treatment to achieve optimal treatment and how to prevent postoperative recurrence still need to be studied and discussed. This article reviews the progress in the research of hepatic carcinoma with portal vein thrombus, inferior vena cava thrombus, or bile duct thrombus.

Long-term survival after anterior approach right hepatectomy combined with inferior vena cava thrombectomy using trans-diaphragmatic intrapericardial inferior vena cava occlusion: a case report and review of the literature

Background

Presence of inferior vena cava tumor thrombosis (IVCTT) is an unfavorable factor to prognosis for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Case presentation

Herein we report a case of HCC with IVC tumor thrombosis extending from the right hepatic vein (RHV) to the IVC, but it had not infiltrated the right atrium. Anterior approach right hepatectomy combined with IVC thrombectomy using trans-diaphragmatic IVC occlusion was performed for this patient. The patient is alive with disease-free at 32 months after treatment. A literature review was also performed. This case was demonstrated with the details and concepts of surgery.

Conclusion

This case suggested that surgical resection of HCC involving the IVC, but still outside the right atrium (RA), could offer satisfactory surgical outcomes in selected patients.

External-beam radiation therapy versus surgery in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma with inferior vena cava/right atrium tumor thrombi

BACKGROUND

Both surgery and external-beam radiotherapy are effective treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with inferior vena cava/right atrium (IVC/RA) tumor thrombi. At present, it is not clear which modality is more suitable. We therefore compared outcomes between surgery and radiotherapy for these patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 108 HCC patients with IVC/RA tumor thrombi who were referred for surgery (n = 51) and external-beam radiotherapy (n = 57) at three institutions. Different surgical methods were selected according to the classification of the tumor thrombus. Radiotherapy was designed to focus on primary intrahepatic tumors and tumor thrombi. Predictors of time to progression (TTP) were identified by using univariate and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

The median TTP was significantly longer in the radiotherapy group than in the surgery group (5.0 months vs 4.2 months; P = 0.010). The multivariate analysis revealed that independent factors predicting shorter TTP were treatment with surgery (HR = 0.577; 95% CI, 0.385-0.865; P = 0.008) and intrahepatic tumor size larger than 10 cm (HR = 0.561; 95% CI, 0.342-0.919; P = 0.022). The median survival times for the radiotherapy and surgery groups were 12.8 and 14.5 months, respectively; the two groups did not have a significant difference in survival (P = 0.466).

CONCLUSIONS

For HCC patients with IVC/RA tumor thrombi, treatment with external-beam radiotherapy and intrahepatic tumor size smaller than 10 cm may predict longer TTP. Compared with complicated surgery, radiotherapy, as a noninvasive treatment modality, may be more likely to be accepted.

Hypofractionated radiotherapy as a salvage treatment for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma with inferior vena cava/right atrium tumor thrombus: a multi-center analysis

Background

Recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with a tumor thrombus (TT) extending into the inferior vena cava (IVC)/right atrium (RA) is generally regarded as a terminal-stage condition and there is no worldwide consensus on the proper management of this situation. In the present study, we report the efficacy of hypofractionated radiotherapy (HFRT) as a salvage treatment for recurrent HCC with IVC/RA TT.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 75 HCC patients with an IVC/RA TT who were referred for HFRT at three institutions between 2008 and 2016. 57 cases had a TT located in the IVC (IVC group), and 18 cases had a TT located in the IVC and RA (IVC + RA group). HFRT was designed to focus on the TT with or without the primary intrahepatic tumors.

Results

In all cases, the TT completely disappeared (CR) in 17 patients (22.7%), 55 patients (73.3%) had a partial response (PR), and 3 patients (4.0%) had a stable disease (SD). There were no cases of progressive disease (PD). The 1-, 2-, and 3-year overall survival rates of the 75 patients were 38.7% (29/75), 13.3% (10/75) and 5.3% (4/75), respectively. The overall median survival time was 10 months. The mean survival times for the IVC group and IVC+ RA group were 13.8 ± 1.1 and 11.6 ± 2.5 months, respectively. There was no significant difference in survival between the two groups (p = 0.205). Log-rank test revealed that factors predicting poor survival were Child-Pugh B liver function classification, AFP ≥ 400 μg/L, intrahepatic multiple tumors, distant metastases, only the TT as the target, a biological effective dose (BED) < 55 Gy and no chance of further radiotherapy.

Conclusions

HFRT appears to be an effective and reasonable treatment option for recurrent HCC patients with IVC/RA TT. The location of the tumor thrombus, either in IVC or in IVC and RA, is not the factor that influences the efficacy of radiotherapy or survival.

Cavo-atrial thrombectomy prior to hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma with tumor thrombus in the right atrium: a case report

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with tumor thrombus (TT) in the right atrium is a critical condition. The general consensus is to perform hepatectomy prior to cavo-atrial thrombectomy because of the risk of uncontrollable bleeding during the liver transection after heparinization. However, sudden cardiac arrest due to the ball-valve effect and pulmonary embolism have been reported in cases of TT. Cavo-atrial thrombectomy prior to hepatectomy for HCC with TT in the right atrium was successfully performed to prevent sudden cardiac arrest and pulmonary embolism.

CASE PRESENTATION

Tumor thrombectomy under cardiopulmonary bypass with heparin and electrical ventricular fibrillation prior to hepatectomy was successfully performed to prevent sudden cardiac arrest or pulmonary embolism in a 75-year-old woman with a huge HCC and TT in the right atrium. After the neutralization of heparin, right hepatectomy with tumor thrombectomy in the inferior vena cava was performed. The total operation time was 9 h, and the total blood loss was 8200 mL. The patient's postoperative course was uneventful, and she was discharged 14 days after surgery. One year after surgery, she is alive with HCC recurrence in the lung.

CONCLUSIONS

Cavo-atrial thrombectomy prior to hepatectomy for HCC with TT in the right atrium can be performed safely to prevent sudden cardiac arrest and pulmonary embolism by collaboration of cardiovascular surgeons and gastroenterological surgeons.

Liver resection versus transcatheter arterial chemoembolization for the treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and hepatic vein or inferior vena cava tumor thrombus: A propensity score matching analysis

AIM

Because of the rarity of hepatic vein tumor thrombus (HVTT) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), little is known about HVTT. Thus, the survival benefit of liver resection (LR) versus transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) for HCC patients with HVTT or inferior vena cava tumor thrombus (IVCTT) remains controversial. We aimed to explore the survival benefits of LR versus TACE for the treatment of these patients.

METHODS

From 2012 to 2016, a total of 276 patients with HVTT or IVCTT who underwent liver resection or TACE were enrolled in this study. Patients in the LR group were matched at a 1:1 ratio with patients treated with TACE as an initial treatment (TACE group). Clinical characteristics, overall survival, and disease-free survival were analyzed.

RESULTS

The median survival time in the LR group was 4.7 months longer than that in the TACE group before PSM (19.4 vs. 14.7 months, P = 0.006) and 6.9 months longer than that in the TACE group after PSM (20.9 vs. 14.0 months, P = 0.019). The median disease-free survival time in the LR group was 3.2 months longer than that in the TACE group before PSM (12.3 vs. 9.1 months, P = 0.038) and 5.8 months longer than that in the TACE group after PSM (13.0 vs. 7.2 months, P = 0.011).

CONCLUSION

Liver resection provides a good prognosis for HCC patients with HVTT or IVCTT compared with patients undergoing TACE, and coexistence with portal vein tumor thrombus is the most important factor related to survival.

Is Noncurative Hepatic Resection Justified for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma?

It has been obscure whether or not noncurative hepatic resection (Hx) has a favorable impact on the clinical course in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of this study is to clarify the significance of noncurative Hx for advanced HCC. Among 666 consecutive patients undergoing Hx for HCC in our department, 79 patients underwent noncurative Hx. These patients were classified as Group A (presence of macrovascular invasion [MVI]; n = 29), Group B (residual tumors in the remnant liver; n = 37), Group C (residual tumors in the remnant liver with MVI; n = 7), or Group D (residual tumors in the remnant liver with distant metastasis [with or without MVI]; n = 6). The three-year survival rates were 49.6 per cent in Group A, 30.3 per cent in Group B, 14.3 per cent in Group C, and 0.0 per cent in Group D, respectively (Groups A and B vs Group D, P < 0.05). Moreover, the survival rate was significantly higher in patients with ≤3 tumors than in those with ≥4 tumors ( P < 0.05), when Group B was divided into subgroups according to the number of residual tumors in the remnant liver. In conclusion, noncurative Hx might be acceptable for advanced HCC with MVI or ≤3 residual tumors in the remnant liver.

Unusual Techniques for Preserving Surgical and Oncologic Safety in Hepatectomy of Advanced Adrenal Malignancy with Vena Cava and Liver Invasion

BACKGROUND

Status in terms of major vascular structure invasion is a crucial factor for successful major hepatic resection. In particular, surgery for advanced tumors with inferior vena cava (IVC) invasion is difficult and may even be dangerous for the patient, having high risk of massive bleeding and greater chance of embolic complications such as stroke, bowel ischemia, and pulmonary venous thrombosis. For such reasons, many surgeons hesitate to carry out such surgical resection, and even if they do so, may not totally remove the tumor including the part inside the IVC, achieving R1 resection. For safe and radical surgery, various surgical techniques are required. We report herein three cases of major hepatectomy with IVC invasion and discuss several surgical tips.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From March 2011 to February 2014, we retrospectively reviewed three cases of adrenal malignancy with liver and IVC invasion. Based on the severity of the malignant tumor, each case illustrates a different method to address surgical complications and maintain oncologic safety. Case 1: A 34-year-old woman was diagnosed with adrenocortical tumor during medical examination. Tumor invaded the right lobe of the liver and very close to the IVC. Fortunately, there was little thrombosis inside the IVC; we performed right hemihepatectomy and adrenalectomy, then resected the IVC wall close to the tumor and repaired the IVC side wall using 4-0 Prolene. Case 2: A 54-year-old woman who complained of abdominal discomfort visited our hospital. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan revealed huge adrenal mass with liver and IVC invasion. Thrombosis inside the IVC extended to the right atrium. We decided to carry out veno-veno bypass during operation in collaboration with heart surgeon. After application of veno-veno bypass, the right atrium wall was opened and the tumor thrombus removed. We then carried out right hemihepatectomy and adrenalectomy. Supra- and infrahepatic vena cava were clamped during tumor thrombectomy to prevent embolic complications. Case 3: A 51-year-old woman who complained of headache and hypertension visited our hospital and was diagnosed with huge adrenal tumor. Tumor invaded to the right lobe of the liver and encased the IVC. The tumor totally invaded the IVC, and massive bleeding was expected during dissection. We resected the tumor including IVC en bloc, and reconstructed IVC with artificial graft (Dacron) under veno-veno bypass.

RESULTS

In case 1, there was no surgical complication. The patient was discharged 7 days postoperatively and underwent adjuvant chemotherapy (Mitotane) after discharge. Unfortunately, multiple hepatic metastases were identified 4 months after operation. She died 6 months after surgery. In case 2, there was no surgical complication after surgery. The patient was discharged 10 days postoperatively. Multiple liver and lung metastases were identified 4 months after operation, and pulmonary embolism was also diagnosed on chemotherapy. She died 16 months after operation. In case 3, the patient had no surgical complication in the immediate postoperative period and was discharged 14 days after surgery. Pheochromocytoma was confirmed in pathologic report. One month after discharge, she underwent interventional balloon dilatation due to short segmental collapse of suprahepatic IVC. At 42 months after surgery, she was still alive with no relapse.

DISCUSSION

In advanced-stage malignant tumor, the conflict between achieving oncologic R0 resection and patient safety remains an unsolved issue. In particular, more advanced surgical technique is required when the tumor invades large vessels such as the vena cava. Previous reports on cases of advanced tumor invading liver and IVC have described the technical difficulties.1^,2 Wakayama et al. reported cases of successful thrombectomy under veno-veno bypass in hepatocellular carcinoma with IVC and right atrium invasion,3 and Vicente et al.4 reported surgical resection of IVC thrombus without cardiopulmonary bypass. Major vascular invasion of the tumor is known to be a poor prognostic factor for survival. However, some reports state that, if the tumor invades major vascular structure, complete tumor removal might be helpful for patient survival due to the biologic features of the tumor.2^,5^,6 This video report does not describe any new techniques, but is more helpful for junior surgeons in educational terms. The limitation of this report is that we could not show good oncologic long-term survival after surgery. However, no fatal complications related to the surgical procedure occurred, by managing the tumor thrombus during the operation. We present three techniques with differing aggressiveness. The techniques illustrated in this video represent a good option to achieve patient surgical safety.

External beam radiation therapy to hepatocellular carcinoma involving inferior vena cava and/or right atrium: A meta-analysis and systemic review

PURPOSE

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) involving inferior vena cava (IVC) and/or right atrium (RA) is a very rare but serious disease. The objective of this meta-analysis was to assess efficacy and safety of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for HCC involving IVC and/or RA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Systematic search of Pubmed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane library published was performed. Primary endpoints were 1-year overall survival (OS) rate and 2-year OS rates. Secondary endpoints were response rate, local control (LC) rate, and grade ≥3 toxicities. According to heterogeneity evaluated with Cochran Q test and I² statistics, meta-analysis was performed using either random or fixed model.

RESULTS

A total of 8 studies and 9 cohorts were included, encompassing 164 patients. Pooled 1- and 2-year OS rates were 53.6% (95% CI: 45.7-61.3%) and 36.9% (95% CI: 27.2-42.4%), respectively. Pooled response rate and LC rate were 59.2% (95% CI: 39.0-76.7%) and 83.8% (95% CI: 78.8-97.1%), respectively. Only one study reported 2 grade ≥3 toxicities, an esophageal rupture and a pulmonary embolism cases. The overall rate of possible grade ≥3 complications was 1.2% (2 of 164).

CONCLUSIONS

EBRT is a feasible and safe option to palliate HCC with IVC and/or RA invasion.