<p>Missing data by variable.</p>

Prognostic factors were assessed using Cox proportional hazards models, and propensity-score matching was performed.</p> <p>Results</p><p>The low CALLY index group had lower albumin levels, higher CRP and alpha-fetoprotein levels, larger tumors, and more severe postoperative complications than the high CALLY index group. Patients with low CALLY index had significantly worse DFS and OS than those with high CALLY index. Multivariate analysis identified that the low CALLY index was independently associated with worse DFS (hazard ratio (HR), 1.86; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.40–2.47; P < 0.0001) and OS (HR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.37–2.72; P = 0.0002).

After propensity-score matching, the low CALLY index group continued to have significantly poorer DFS and OS rates than the high CALLY index group.</p> <p>Conclusions</p><p>The preoperative CALLY index was independently associated with DFS and OS after hepatic resection for primary HCC. This simple biomarker may help identify patients at a high risk of recurrence and poor survival.</p></div>