Analysis of risk factors for post-operative infection following drug-eluting trans arterial chemo embolization in hepatocellular carcinoma: A retrospective study.

Abstract

Background: Post-operative infection is a common and serious complication following drug-eluting trans arterial chemo embolization (D-TACE) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), potentially compromising treatment efficacy and increasing morbidity.

Aim: To investigate the risk factors associated with post-operative infection in HCC patients undergoing D-TACE, and to provide evidence for clinical prevention and targeted intervention strategies.

Methods: Clinical data of 77 primary HCC patients who underwent D-TACE in our hospital from January 2022 to December 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Patient demographics, laboratory test results, tumor characteristics, and surgery-related parameters were collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors for post-operative infection.

Results: Post-operative infection occurred in 20 cases (25.97%) among the 77 patients. Univariate analysis showed that age ≥ 65 years, Child-Pugh grade B, tumor diameter ≥ 5 cm, operation time ≥ 120 minutes, preoperative albumin < 35 g/L, and comorbid diabetes were significantly associated with post-operative infection (P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified Child-Pugh grade B (OR = 2.851, 95%CI: 1.426-5.698), operation time ≥ 120 minutes (OR = 2.367, 95%CI: 1.238-4.523), and preoperative albumin < 35 g/L (OR = 2.156, 95%CI: 1.147-4.052) as independent risk factors for post-operative infection.

Conclusion: Liver function status, operation time, and preoperative albumin level are significant factors affecting post-operative infection in HCC patients undergoing D-TACE. For high-risk patients, enhanced perioperative management, appropriate timing of surgery, and active improvement of nutritional status should be implemented to reduce the risk of post-operative infection.