The Japanese integrated staging score using liver damage grade for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients after hepatectomy

Aims. The new Japanese staging system for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the Japan integrated staging (JIS) score, accounts for both Child–Pugh classification and Japan tumour node metastasis (TNM) staging. However, in HCC patients who undergo hepatectomy, liver function is relatively good and a better prognostic classification of hepatic function is necessary. Methods. The present study was designed to analyse the modified JIS score using liver damage grade by the Liver Cancer Study Group of Japan instead of the Child–Pugh classification (using the category indocyanine green retention rate at 15 min [ICGR15] instead of encephalopathy), and to compare the Japan TNM stage in 101 patients who underwent resection of HCC. Results. The liver damage grade showed significantly better discrimination of disease-free and overall survival than did the Child–Pugh classification. The modified JIS score system showed significant differences of disease-free and overall survivals in each score and this system was superior for discriminating survivals compared with the TNM staging. Conclusions. The combined staging system of hepatic function, particularly ICGR15, and tumour stage provides a better prediction of prognosis. The JIS score using the liver damage grade was a useful predictor of prognosis of HCC patients who underwent hepatic resection.