Published online Dec 7, 2018. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v24.i45.5081
Peer-review started: September 1, 2018
First decision: October 14, 2018
Revised: October 21, 2018
Accepted: November 7, 2018
Article in press: November 7, 2018
Published online: December 7, 2018
Processing time: 97 Days and 13.6 Hours
Core tip: We propose a multi-disciplinary management algorithm for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma after liver transplantation. The combination of a mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor with a reduced calcineurin inhibitor can be considered. Staging is performed to differentiate between disseminated recurrence and oligo-recurrence. In patients with disseminated recurrence, sorafenib may confer survival benefits but is associated with significant toxicity. Oligo-recurrence encompasses recurrent disease that is limited in number and location so that loco-regional treatments convey disease control and survival benefits. Intra-hepatic and extra-hepatic oligo-recurrences can be managed with surgical resection, ablative therapy or regional treatments depending on the disease status.