Hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma in the elderly

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluated the perioperative and long-term results of hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the elderly. Materials and Methods: Clinicopathological data, postoperative outcome and long-term survival of 23 elderly (³ 70 years old) patients who underwent hepatectomy for HCC between 1993 and 1997 were compared with 192 younger patients operated on in the same period. Results: Premorbid medical conditions were more common in the elderly but there were no significant differences in the postoperative morbidity rate (43 vs 37%, P = 0.359) or hospital mortality rate (4 vs 2%, P = 0.435) compared with younger patients. Long-term survival was also similar between the two age groups (5 year survival rate 47 vs 45%, P = 0.465). Conclusions: With modern surgical techniques and perioperative management, hepatectomy for HCC is safe in the elderly with careful patient selection. Long-term survival after hepatectomy in the elderly is comparable with younger patients.