The role of percutaneous hepatic perfusion (PHP) in the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma

Abstract

This review article evaluates the current literature on the role of percutaneous hepatic perfusion (PHP) as a treatment option in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). CCA is a rare cancer that is mostly diagnosed at a late stage. Patients with advanced, unresectable disease have limited treatment options. PHP is a locoregional therapy that delivers high doses of chemotherapy directly to the liver while minimizing systemic exposure and toxicity. This review allocates PHP in the therapeutic spectrum of CCA and summarizes the available literature with a focus on the clinical efficacy and safety profile. Results from studies evaluating the efficacy and safety of PHP are promising, with several observational studies demonstrating improvements in progression-free survival and overall survival rates. However, PHP is not without side effects; the most commonly reported adverse events include transient hematotoxicity and hepatotoxicity. PHP has the potential to be a valuable treatment option for patients with unresectable CCA. Nonetheless, further trials are needed to optimize patient selection, treatment regimens, and long-term outcomes.