Tailoring Treatments to Better Outcomes in Liver Cancer

In season 4, episode 16 of Targeted Talks, Susanne G. Warner, MD, hepatobiliary and pancreas surgeon at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, discusses the importance of tailoring treatments for patients with liver cancer, taking into account the staging of the cancer.

There are a variety of options available for the treatment of liver cancer, including liver-directed therapies like transplantation, resection, and ablation. Over the past few years imparticularly, the field has seen significant progress with the expanded criteria for surgery and the incorporation of minimally invasive techniques. These advancements have provided patients and clinicans with less invasive, yet effective options.

“I think that we're going to continue to see more [patients] being cured in a less invasive way. I do think we'll see more people treated with some combination of systemic therapy and liver-directed therapy, whether that be surgery or some other form… but I hope we see more people being cured in a less invasive manner,” said Warner.

One of the challenges highlighted by Warner is the need for accurate and consistent surveillance, specifically for patients who are at high-risk and who have underlying liver conditions. She also explains some of the disparities in healthcare access that can make it difficult for patients with liver cancer to recieve the treatments they need.

For community oncologists, Warner discusses the importance of collaboration between high-volume liver centers and specialists, and how the expertise of a variety of experts can better a patient's outcomes. Staying updated with the latest developments in the liver cancer space are crucial to provide patients with the best possible care.

“I think it's important for a surgeon to be involved in every [patient] with liver cancer’s journey at least once. I think there is no substitute for high quality liver-specific imaging, and when in doubt, engage your friendly neighborhood [clinician] who looks at livers a lot,” said Warner.