Laproscopic liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma: 5-year experience at a single center

Abstract

Background: Laparoscopic liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) has become an increasingly popular operation, even in the presence of liver cirrhosis. Here we evaluate the outcomes of laparoscopic liver resection for HCC at a single center. Methods: From November 2011 to August 2016, 24 patients with HCC underwent various laparoscopic liver resection at a single institution. The operation was performed by one team of surgeons. The clinical data of these patients were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed by reviewing the medical records, radiologic images and pathologic reports. Results: The mean age of the patients was 58 years(range 41-80 years) and 22 patients were men. The types of resection were resection of one segment (7 cases), resection of two segments (9 cases), resection of three segments (2 cases) and four segments (6 cases). The mean tumor size was 3.4 cm (range 0.8-10 cm). The mean resection margin was 17.9mm (range 1-50 mm). The median follow-up duration was 29 months (range 4-45 months). The 3-year overall survival rates were 83.3%. Conclusion: Laparoscopic liver resection for HCC is feasible, safe with good oncologic outcomes. Major liver resection is possible with improved surgeon’s skill and experience.