Transarterial- chemoembolization remains an effective therapy for intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma with preserved liver function.

Aim: To evaluate outcomes as well as prognostic factors of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with preserved liver function to determine positioning of TACE.

Methods: Of 158 treatment-naïve patients with intermediate-stage HCC who received initial TACE from February 2007 to January 2016, 113 patients met the following inclusion criteria: no combined therapy within 4 weeks after initial TACE, and Child-Pugh score under 7. Response rate and overall survival were evaluated.