Recurrence Patterns and Cost-Effectiveness of Surgical Approaches in Early-Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Recurrence Patterns and Cost-Effectiveness of Robotic-assisted, Laparoscopic, and Open Liver Resection in BCLC 0/A Hepatocellular Carcinoma:

This study aims to investigate the recurrence patterns and cost-effectiveness of robotic-assisted, laparoscopic, and open liver resections in patients with early-stage (BCLC 0/A) hepatocellular carcinoma. By analyzing data from 3000 patients across 27 centers, the research evaluates recurrence-free survival, overall survival, and long-term economic impacts using metrics such as quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs). Findings will provide insights into optimal surgical approaches to improve patient outcomes and healthcare resource utilization.

Inclusion Criteria:

• (1) HCC diagnosis confirmed by two independent radiologists using contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) combined with postoperative pathology; (2) BCLC stage 0 or A; and (3) curative liver resection

Exclusion Criteria:

• (1) concurrent malignancies in other organs; (2) diagnosis of combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma; (3) prior neoadjuvant or adjuvant treatment before liver resection; (4) recurrent HCC; (5) ruptured HCC; and (6) incomplete follow-up or missing data.