HPB is now well established as an international forum for clinical, scientific and educational communication with an impact factor in 2013 of 2.05. It has risen in importance in the last few years to represent the major HPB journal in which the latest advances in our specialty are published.

In twelve issues over the year, the journal brings the reader leading articles, expert reviews, original articles, images, editorials, virtual journal clubs and reader correspondence encompassing all aspects of benign and malignant hepatobiliary disease and its management. HPB features relevant aspects of clinical and translational research and practice. It is the journal in which the manuscripts resulting from key presentations at regional and international congresses are published.

Specific areas of interest include HPB diseases encountered globally by clinical practitioners in this specialist field of gastrointestinal surgery. The journal addresses the challenges faced in the management of cancer involving the liver, biliary system and pancreas. While surgical oncology represents a large part of HPB practice, submission of manuscripts relating to liver and pancreas transplantation, the treatment of benign conditions such as acute and chronic pancreatitis, and those relating to hepatobiliary infection and inflammation are also welcomed. There will be a focus on developing a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment with endoscopic and laparoscopic approaches, radiological interventions and surgical techniques being strongly represented.

HPB aims to help its readers - surgeons, physicians, radiologists and basic scientists - to develop their knowledge and practice. HPB will be of interest to specialists involved in the management of hepatobiliary and pancreatic disease however will also inform those working in related fields.