Outcomes of surgical treatment for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma at Bach Mai Hospital (January 2020 - June 2024)

Abstract

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is the second most common primary liver malignancy after hepatocellular carcinoma, accounting for approximately 10-15% of all primary liver cancers [1]. Curative surgery remains the only effective treatment to improve survival, as the disease often progresses silently and responds poorly to chemoradiotherapy and targeted therapies. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the postoperative outcomes of curative liver resection for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Patients and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 32 patients who underwent liver resection at Bach Mai Hospital between January 2020 and June 2024. Results: The mean patient age was 58.8±11.59 years. The postoperative complication rate was 15.5%, and no in-hospital mortality was recorded. The mean recurrence time was 21.8±2.5 months; patients with lymph node metastasis experienced earlier recurrence. The mean overall survival after surgery was 26.6±3.08 months. Postoperative survival was significantly affected by weight loss, lymph node metastasis, and recurrence within two years. Conclusion: Liver resection is a safe and effective treatment that improves postoperative survival for patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, particularly those without lymph node metastasis.