Top Hepatobiliary Articles from 2022 to Inform Your Cancer Practice
Zachary J Brown1, Timothy M Pawlik2
1Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, NYU Langone Health, New York University Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, USA.
Abstract:
Until recently, there have been only modest therapeutic advances in the treatment of hepatobiliary malignancies. However, the introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors in combination with targeted therapy or chemotherapy has changed the therapeutic landscape of hepatocellular carcinoma and biliary tract cancers. As such, revisions have been made to guidelines reflecting therapeutic advances for patients who can be considered for surgical options including resection and liver transplantation. This article highlights recently published studies that have impacted both the oncological and surgical approach to the treatment of patients with hepatobiliary malignancies.
Insights
Recent advances in immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted therapies have significantly improved treatments for liver and bile duct cancers, influencing surgical guidelines for resection and transplantation.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Hepatology
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Therapeutic progress for hepatobiliary cancers was historically limited.
- Recent breakthroughs involve immune checkpoint inhibitors combined with targeted or chemotherapy agents.
- These advances necessitate updated clinical guidelines for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent studies impacting the treatment of hepatobiliary malignancies.
- To highlight advancements in both oncological and surgical approaches.
- To inform current therapeutic strategies and guideline revisions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recently published studies.
- Analysis of treatment outcomes in hepatocellular carcinoma and biliary tract cancers.
- Evaluation of the impact on surgical options like resection and liver transplantation.
Main Results:
- Immune checkpoint inhibitors have transformed treatment paradigms.
- Combination therapies show significant efficacy in hepatobiliary cancers.
- Updated guidelines now incorporate these advances for surgical candidates.
Conclusions:
- Hepatobiliary cancer treatment has entered a new era with immunotherapy and targeted agents.
- Surgical management, including resection and transplantation, is being redefined by these oncological improvements.
- Ongoing research continues to refine the multidisciplinary approach to these complex diseases.
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