Expert consensus on sequential surgery after immune-targeted conversion therapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma in China

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a significant global health burden, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, where it is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. In China alone, HCC accounts for approximately 367,700 new cases and 316,500 deaths annually; over 50% of patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, limiting curative treatment options and resulting in poor survival outcomes. Systemic therapies combining immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) with antiangiogenic targeted drugs have shown promise in converting unresectable HCC into resectable cases, potentially transforming clinical outcomes. The Chines expert consensus on sequential surgery following conversion therapy based on combination of immune checkpoint inhibitors and antiangiogenic targeted drugs for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (2024 edition) provides an updated, multidisciplinary framework emphasizing sequential surgery post-conversion therapy. The consensus highlights treatment protocols, efficacy evaluation, and innovative adjuvant strategies to refine clinical practice and enhance survival outcomes in advanced HCC.