In the realm of liver cancer, the portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) is known for being particularly "vicious" and "elusive," often leaving doctors with limited options. It has long been termed the "gate of no return" for liver cancer patients. Its appearance signifies that cancer cells have gained a 'highway,' indicating a very serious stage of liver cancer characterized by rapid progression, a situation not to be underestimated.

"Don't worry! Our minimally invasive comprehensive treatment plan, centered on precision radiotherapy combined with targeted and immunotherapy, is very effective for your condition and has few side effects." Faced with the worried and anxious family, Director Chen Bingguang, an expert in Abdominal and Pelvic Oncology at the Foshan Chancheng Hospital Tumor Center, understood deeply how important it was to help rebuild confidence for cancer patients and their families undergoing such a major blow. Director Chen's words instantly calmed the慌乱 hearts of Mr. Zhang (a pseudonym) and his family.

In February 2024, Mr. Zhang was diagnosed at another hospital with massive hepatocellular carcinoma in the right liver lobe. He had multiple intrahepatic metastases, combined with tumor thrombus in the left and right branches and the main trunk of the portal vein. The tumor diameter reached a staggering 13.2 x 11.6 cm (AFP positive, PS 2-3, Child-Pugh A, CNLC Stage IIIa). All of this made the hope for surgery seem very slim.

Relevant imaging data of Mr. Zhang

Mr. Zhang's advanced age, frail condition, and underlying diseases like hypertension and recurrent cholecystitis all spoke to the arduousness of the anti-cancer journey. However, in the depths of despair, Director Chen's firmness and professionalism gave Mr. Zhang and his family immense courage to proceed with treatment.

Confronted with the complex condition, Director Chen did not give up easily. He conducted in-depth discussions and comprehensive evaluations with the International Multidisciplinary Team (MDT), ultimately deciding to adopt a high-palliative care strategy, primarily using precision radiotherapy combined with targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Although this was a path filled with unknowns and challenges, Mr. Zhang and his family gave their one hundred percent trust.

Director Chen Bingguang discussing the treatment plan with the patient 

Through precision radiotherapy (40Gy/5 fractions) combined with targeted therapy and immunotherapy, each step was like an intense struggle against fate. As time passed, a miracle quietly unfolded – the tumor gradually shrank, the tumor thrombus essentially disappeared, and the abdominal distension symptoms were significantly relieved.

To further consolidate the treatment effect, Mr. Zhang subsequently underwent Stereotactic Central Ablative Radiotherapy (SCART) targeting the massive primary liver tumor, receiving 3 treatment sessions (PTV 15Gy/3f, STV 63Gy/3f) to achieve further tumor control.

Finally, during a follow-up examination in September 2024, Mr. Zhang welcomed a major turning point in his life – the tumor had regressed by 90%, and AFP levels dropped from originally >54,000 ng/ml to within the normal range (3.69 ng/ml).

AFP levels dropped from >54,000 ng/ml to normal.

The left liver showed compensatory hypertrophy, and liver function significantly improved. Mr. Zhang's mental state markedly improved, his weight increased significantly, and he regained complete self-sufficiency in daily life. He rediscovered the joy and confidence in living.

This remarkable transformation amazed Mr. Zhang and his family, their joy upon discharge beyond words. This was not only a medical victory but also the best interpretation of the indomitable spirit of life.

Through the concerted efforts of the Abdominal and Pelvic Oncology specialty and all medical staff at the Foshan Chancheng Hospital Tumor Center, Mr. Zhang's arduous battle against cancer ultimately found a turning point, thanks to precise, non-invasive, and highly effective treatment.