Recommendations for liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma: an international consensus conference report

Lancet Oncol. 2012 Jan;13(1):e11-22. doi: 10.1016/S1470-2045(11)70175-9. Epub 2011 Oct 31.

Abstract

Although liver transplantation is a widely accepted treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), much controversy remains and there is no generally accepted set of guidelines. An international consensus conference was held on Dec 2-4, 2010, in Zurich, Switzerland, with the aim of reviewing current practice regarding liver transplantation in patients with HCC and to develop internationally accepted statements and guidelines. The format of the conference was based on the Danish model. 19 working groups of experts prepared evidence-based reviews according to the Oxford classification, and drafted recommendations answering 19 specific questions. An independent jury of nine members was appointed to review these submissions and make final recommendations, after debates with the experts and audience at the conference. This report presents the final 37 statements and recommendations, covering assessment of candidates for liver transplantation, criteria for listing in cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic patients, role of tumour downstaging, management of patients on the waiting list, role of living donation, and post-transplant management.

Publication types

  • Consensus Development Conference
  • Practice Guideline
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / mortality
  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / surgery*
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Liver Neoplasms / mortality
  • Liver Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Liver Transplantation / adverse effects
  • Liver Transplantation / mortality
  • Liver Transplantation / standards*
  • Neoadjuvant Therapy
  • Patient Selection
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors
  • Tissue Donors / supply & distribution
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Waiting Lists