Carcinoma of the hepatic duct junction

A series of 54 patients with carcinoma of the hepatic duct junction is reveiwed. The condition is probably less rare than previous publications would suggest as the condition is frequently missed at operation. An account of the presentation, investigation and treatment of these patients is given, as well as the results obtained. In the discussion that follows, it is pointed out that if systematic investigation is carried out, with particular regard to adequate radiological investigations, both prior to and during surgery, the correct diagnosis can be made, although histological proof may be difficult to obtain. These tumours are seldom resectable, but good and worthwhile palliation may be obtained.