Although total hepatectomy (removing the entire liver) and liver transplantation are rarely used to treat liver cancer, studies are in progress to determine which liver cancer patients are most likely to benefit from this treatment. At the present time, transplantation is reserved for those with a few small tumors but whose cancer cannot be totally removed, either because of the location of the tumors or because not enough normal liver remains.

The opportunities for liver transplantation are limited. Not many livers are available for cancer patients because they are generally used for more curable diseases. Also, people needing a transplant must wait until a liver is available and usually that takes too long for most people with liver cancer.

Advances in transplantation immunology are expected to reduce the risk of liver rejection and the severity of side effects caused by antirejection drugs that suppress the patient's immune system. Increased public awareness about the importance of organ donation is an essential public health goal that could make this treatment available to more patients with liver cancer and other serious liver diseases.

Revised 10-17-03