Recurrence after resection of hepatocellular carcinoma.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the relevant factors of prognosis and the proper treatment of recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).


METHODS
From January 1983 to January 1997, 135 patients with recurrent HCC were analyzed in terms of host condition, tumor characteristics, and surgical procedures. Surgical treatments of these patients were compared.


RESULTS
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level >1000 microg/L in the initial operation, tumor size larger than 5 cm in diameter, tumor embolization in the portal veins, 0 surgical margin, and no chemoembolization before the operation were the main factors directly affecting the prognosis in a year after recurrence. Repeat hepatectomy and liver transplantation were performed to obtain better results.


CONCLUSIONS
Tumor characteristics and surgical treatment are the main factors affecting the prognosis after the recurrence of HCC. Liver transplantation plays an important role in patients with poor liver function or multi-recurrent sites.
Shen
Bai-Yong
BY
Department of Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Second Medical University, Shanghai 200025, China. baiyongshen@hotmail.com
Li
Hong-Wei
HW
Regimbeau
J-M
JM
Belghiti
J
J
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D006528:Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006498:Hepatectomy; D006801:Humans; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D016031:Liver Transplantation; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / Q000601:surgery; D011379:Prognosis; D012086:Reoperation; D016019:Survival Analysis; D013997:Time Factors