Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: analysis of 44 consecutive resected cases including 5 cases with repeat resections.

BACKGROUND

Prognosis after resection for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) remains unsatisfactory. There remains no effective therapy after recurrent ICC.

OBJECTIVE

The current study sought to evaluate risk factors associated with recurrent ICC and possible therapies after resection.

METHOD: A review of data from patients who underwent potentially curative resection for ICC was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 44 potentially curative resections were performed from 1995 to 2008. Mortality was 0% and morbidity was 35%. The 5-year overall and recurrence-free survival rates were 43% and 39%, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified the presence of multiple nodules and poor histologic grade as independent negative prognostic factors for overall and recurrent-free survival. Postoperative recurrence occurred in 25 patients (57%). Solitary recurrence occurred in 5 patients (liver, n = 4; lung, n = 1), all of who had undergone surgical resection. Three of the 5 patients survived for more than 5 years after 2 resections.

CONCLUSION

Prognosis after curative resection of solitary ICC appears favorable. In selected patients with sequential single hepatic or pulmonary recurrence, repeat resection may prolong survival.