Current Status of Hepatic Resection in the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Most patients suffering from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Japan have associated liver cirrhosis or a related liver disease. In the past, massive hepatic resection in these patients applied to cure the HCC frequently resulted in a fatal liver failure postoperatively. Preoperative assessment to determine a safe limit for resection is the most urgent problem for liver surgeons in Japan [1].