Laparoscopic Liver Resection in Ruptured Hepatocellular Carcinoma [with Video]
Current Role of LLR in Ruptured HCC
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31584/psumj.2026283806Keywords:
Hepatectomy, hepatocellular carcinoma, laparoscopy, laparoscopic hepatectomy, minimally invasive liver resection, ruptured hepatocellular carcinomaAbstract
Laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) has emerged as a valuable treatment option for managing ruptured hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). As surgery is one curative treatment of HCC in selected patients, LLR offers advantages over open liver resection (OLR) in terms of reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and comparable postoperative outcomes. While LLR is feasible for non-ruptured HCC, its role in resections of ruptured HCC remains a controversial issue. The primary and secondary aims of this article were to review the current role of LLR, and provide patient selection criteria for ruptured HCC. To date, only 10 cases with good postoperative outcomes have been reported in patients having undergone LLR for ruptured HCC. Patient selection is crucial, along with individualized assessment; based on hemodynamic status, tumor burden and liver function, to guide treatment decisions. In highly selected patients with ruptured tumor, LLR in an experienced center can provide a minimally invasive alternative to OLR; leading to improved patient outcomes. As current evidence relies exclusively on minor hepatectomy case series, further studies are necessary to refine indications and optimize outcomes in this specific context.
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