Complete liver dearterialization and the carcinoid syndrome

A variety of surgical procedures are available in the treatment of the carcinoid syndrome, the aim being the destruction of liver secondaries and amelioration of symptoms. Dearterialization of the liver may be considered when liver secondaries are extensive and medical treatment inadequate in controlling symptoms. The patient reported here had severe symptoms of epigastric pain, anorexia, flushing, diarrhoea and recurrent syncope and was generally deteriorating rapidly. Complete dearterialization of the liver, however, resulted in a dramatic improvement. Now, 2 years later, the patient's hepatic scan, liver function tests and 24-h urine 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid (5-HIAA) are all within normal limits. Destruction of liver secondaries by dearterialization is a relatively simple procedure. Careful attention should be paid to large quantities of pharmacologically active compounds released from the liver during the procedure. Ascites, jaundice and liver cell failure are definite contraindications to surgery.