Abstract

We aim to present the results of 8 patients with Klatskin tumor between January 1999- June 2001. Tumor resection was performed in 8 patients; 4 male and 4 female. Preoperative biliary drainage was performed in 6 patients. Palliative resection was done in 4 patients and curative resection in 4 patients. Right hemihepatectomy was done in 1 patient; in curative resection group. Local tumor resection was performed in 3 patients.1 patient died in early postoperative period (12.5%). 1 year survival and 2 year survival rates are 75% and 50% in curative resection, 75% and 0% in palliative resection group respectively.

Klatskin tumor has poor prognosis. Extensive locoregional tumor or metastatic involvement of liver tissue require major or limited liver resection on many occasion. Relief of symptoms such as obstructive jaundice and cholangitis could be achieved by surgical palliation when curative resection is impossible. Surgical palliation can also improve survival by relief of symptoms.