[Intra-arterial chemo-embolisation and portal vein embolisation prior to liver resection]

We describe the first successful down staging with a combination of neoadjuvant intra-arterial chemo-embolisation followed by portal vein embolisation in a Danish patient with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Down staging allowed radical liver resection in the patient who was initially found to be inoperable. Patients with HCC are often irresectable. The only treatment that offers a chance for long term survival is surgery. Liver transplantation is limited by the shortage of donor organs. The combination of chemo-embolisation and portal venous embolisation may increase the number of resectable patients.