Resection of synchronous liver metastases from colorectal cancer

Simultaneous or staged resection of synchronous colorectal cancer liver metastases: a 13-year institutional follow-up

BACKGROUND

This study compared postoperative outcomes and survival rates of patients who underwent simultaneous or staged resection for synchronous colorectal cancer liver metastases.

METHODS

Between 2005 and 2018, 126 patients were registered prospectively at a university hospital in Sweden, 63 patients who underwent simultaneous resection were matched against 63 patients who underwent staged resection.

RESULTS

The length of hospital stay was shorter for the simultaneous resection group, at 11 vs 16 days, p = <0.001. Fewer patients experienced recurrence in the simultaneous resection group 39 vs 50 patients, p = 0.012. There were no significant differences in disease-free survival and overall survival between the groups. Age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.72; 95% CI 1.01-2.94; p = 0.049) and Clavien-Dindo score (HR 2.22; 95% CI 1.06-4.67; p = 0.035) had impact on survival.

CONCLUSION

Colorectal cancer with synchronous liver metastases can be resected simultaneously, and enables a shorter treatment time without jeopardizing oncological outcomes.

Simultaneous versus staged major hepatectomy (≥3 liver segments) for outcomes of synchronous colorectal liver metastases: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Hepatectomy is an effective treatment for synchronous colorectal liver metastases (SCLM) patients. However, whether to choose simultaneous hepatectomy (SIH) or staged hepatectomy (STH) is still controversial, especially during major hepatectomy (≥3 liver segments).

Aims

Compare the difference between the SCLM patients underwent SIH and STH, especially during major hepatectomy (≥3 liver segments).

Methods and Results

A meta‐analysis was conducted by analyzing the published data on the outcomes of SCLM patients underwent SIH or STH from January 2010 to December 2020 from the electronic databases. A random‐effects model was used to derive pooled estimates of odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for the explored outcomes. Eventually, 18 studies, including 5101 patients, were included this study. The result of meta‐analysis showed that SIH did not increase postoperative complications (pooled OR: 1.037; 95% CI: 0.897–1.200), perioperative mortality (pooled OR: 0.942; 95% CI: 0.552–1.607), 3‐year mortality (pooled OR: 1.090; 95% CI: 0.903–1.316) or 5‐year mortality (pooled OR: 1.077; 95% CI: 0.926–1.253), as compared with STH. Subgroup analysis showed that, simultaneous major hepatectomy (SIMH) also did not increase postoperative complications (pooled OR: 0.863; 95% CI: 0.627–1.188) or perioperative mortality (pooled OR: 0.689; 95% CI: 0.290–1.637) as compared with staged major hepatectomy (STMH).

Conclusion

Postoperative complications, perioperative mortality and long‐term prognosis had no significant difference between SIH and STH for SCLM patients. Besides, postoperative complications and perioperative mortality also had no significant difference between SIMH and STMH.

One-Stage Total Laparoscopic Treatment for Colorectal Cancer With Synchronous Metastasis. Is It Safe and Feasible?

Liver is the main target organ for colorectal cancer (CRC) metastases. It is estimated that ~25% of CRC patients have synchronous metastases at diagnosis, and about 60% of CRC patients will develop metastases during the follow up. Although several teams have performed simultaneous laparoscopic resections (SLR) of liver and colorectal lesions, the feasibility and safety of this approach is still widely debated and few studies on this topic are present in the literature. The purpose of this literature review is to understand the state of the art of SLR and to clarify the potential benefits and limitations of this approach. Several studies have shown that SLR can be performed safely and with short-term outcomes similarly to the separated procedures. Simultaneous laparoscopic colorectal and hepatic resections combine the advantages of one stage surgery with those of laparoscopic surgery. Several reports compared the short-term outcomes of one stage laparoscopic resection with open resections and showed a similar or inferior amount of blood loss, a similar or lower complication rate, and a significant reduction of hospital stay for laparoscopic surgery respect to open surgery but much longer operating times for the laparoscopic technique. Few retrospective studies compared long term outcomes of laparoscopic one stage surgery with the outcomes of open one stage surgery and did not identify any differences about disease free survival and the overall survival. In conclusion, hepatic and colorectal SLR are a safe and effective approach characterized by less intraoperative blood loss, faster recovery of intestinal function, and shorter length of postoperative hospital stay. Moreover, laparoscopic approach is associated to lower rates of surgical complications without significant differences in the long-term outcomes compared to the open surgery.

Simultaneous pelvic exenteration and liver resection for primary rectal cancer with synchronous liver metastases: results from the PelvEx Collaborative

AIM

At presentation, 15-20% of patients with rectal cancer already have synchronous liver metastases. The aim of this study was to determine the surgical and survival outcomes in patients with advanced rectal cancer who underwent combined pelvic exenteration and liver (oligometastatic) resection.

METHOD

Data from 20 international institutions that performed simultaneous pelvic exenteration and liver resection between 2007 and 2017 were accumulated. Primarily, we examined perioperative outcomes, morbidity and mortality. We also assessed the impact that margin status had on survival.

RESULTS

Of 128 patients, 72 (56.2%) were men with a median age of 60 years [interquartile range (IQR) 15 years]. The median size of the liver oligometastatic deposits was 2 cm (IQR 1.8 cm). The median duration of surgery was 406 min (IQR 240 min), with a median blood loss of 1090 ml (IQR 2010 ml). A negative resection margin (R0 resection) was achieved in 73.5% of pelvic exenterations and 66.4% of liver resections. The 30-day mortality rate was 1.6%, and 32% of patients had a major postoperative complication. The 5-year overall survival for patients in whom an R0 resection of both primary and metastatic disease was achieved was 54.6% compared with 20% for those with an R1/R2 resection (P = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

Simultaneous pelvic exenteration and liver resection is feasible, with acceptable morbidity and mortality. Simultaneous resection should only be performed where an R0 resection of both pelvic and hepatic disease is anticipated.

Simultaneous versus staged colorectal and hepatic resections for colorectal cancer with synchronous hepatic metastases: a meta-analysis of outcomes and clinical characteristics

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the comparative outcomes and clinical characteristics of simultaneous and staged colorectal and hepatic resections for colorectal cancer with synchronous hepatic metastases.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search of electronic information sources, and bibliographic reference lists. Perioperative morbidity and mortality, anastomotic leak, wound infection, bile leak, bleeding, intra-abdominal abscess, sub-phrenic abscess, reoperation, recurrence, 5-year overall survival, procedure time, and length of hospital stay were the evaluated outcome parameters. Combined overall effect sizes were calculated using random-effects model.

RESULTS

We identified 41 comparative studies reporting a total of 12,081 patients who underwent simultaneous (n = 5013) or staged (n = 7068) resections for colorectal cancer with synchronous hepatic metastases. There were significantly lower use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (p = 0.003), higher right-sided colonic resections (p < 0.00001), and minor hepatic resections (p < 0.00001) in the simultaneous group. The simultaneous resection was associated with significantly lower rate of bleeding (OR 0.60, p = 0.03) and shorter length of hospital stay (MD - 5.40, p < 0.00001) compared to the staged resection. However, no significant difference was found in perioperative morbidity (OR1.04, p = 0.63), mortality (RD 0.00, p = 0.19), anastomotic leak (RD 0.01, p = 0.33), bile leak (OR 0.83, p = 0.50), wound infection (OR 1.17, p = 0.19), intra-abdominal abscess (RD 0.01, p = 0.26), sub-phrenic abscess (OR 1.26, p = 0.48), reoperation (OR 1.32, p = 0.18), recurrence (OR 1.33, p = 0.10), 5-year overall survival (OR 0.88, p = 0.19), or procedure time (MD - 23.64, p = 041) between two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite demonstrating nearly comparable outcomes, the best available evidence (level 2) regarding simultaneous and staged colorectal and hepatic resections for colorectal cancer with synchronous hepatic metastases is associated with major selection bias. It is time to conduct high-quality randomised studies with respect to burden and laterality of disease. We recommend the staged approach for complex cases.

Surgical treatment of stage IV colorectal cancer with synchronous liver metastases: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The ideal treatment approach for colorectal cancer (CRC) with synchronous liver metastases (SCRLM) remains debated. We performed a network meta-analysis (NMA) comparing the 'bowel-first' approach (BFA), simultaneous resection (SIM), and the 'liver-first' approach (LFA).

METHODS

A systematic search of comparative studies in CRC with SCRLM was undertaken using the Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, and CENTRAL databases. Outcome measures included postoperative complications, 30- and 90-day mortality, chemotherapy use, treatment completion rate, 3- and 5-year recurrence-free survival, and 3- and 5-year overall survival (OS). Pairwise and network meta-analysis were performed to compare strategies. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Higgins I² statistic.

RESULTS

One prospective and 43 retrospective studies reporting on 10 848 patients were included. Patients undergoing the LFA were more likely to have rectal primaries and a higher metastatic load. The SIM approach resulted in a higher risk of major morbidity and 30-day mortality. Compared to the BFA, the LFA more frequently resulted in failure to complete treatment as planned (34% versus 6%). Pairwise and network meta-analysis showed a similar 5-year OS between LFA and BFA and a more favorable 5-year OS after SIM compared to LFA (odds ratio 0.25-0.90, p = 0.02, I² = 0%), but not compared to BFA.

CONCLUSION

Despite a higher tumor load in LFA compared to BFA patients, survival was similar. A lower rate of treatment completion was observed with LFA. Uncertainty remains substantial due to imprecise estimates of treatment effects. In the absence of prospective trials, treatment of stage IV CRC patients should be individually tailored.

Surgical approach to synchronous colorectal liver metastases: staged, combined, or reverse strategy

An increasing number of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) are presenting with synchronous disease to the liver. The optimal surgical approach for this complex patient group is controversial, but ultimately depends on individual patient characteristics and institutional practices. Surgical strategies include the traditional staged approach, a combined colorectal and liver resection, or a liver-first reverse approach. In this review, the authors will provide an overview of each strategy, including case examples demonstrating the benefits of the more recently described liver-first approach, while arguing for individualized planning and multidisciplinary discussion for every patient.

Simultaneous, Delayed and Liver-First Hepatic Resections for Synchronous Colorectal Liver Metastases: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

Background

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses that compare simultaneous, delayed and liver-first approach for synchronous colorectal liver metastases have found no significant differences. The aim of this study was to determine the best treatment strategy on the basis of effect sizes and the probabilities of treatment ranking by using a network meta-analysis. Moreover, first-time pairwise and network meta-analyses were used to estimate the existing evidence, and their results were compared to detect any discrepancies between them.

Methods

Systematic review, pairwise meta-analysis and network meta-analysis were performed. The primary and secondary outcomes were 5-year overall survival and postoperative major morbidity, respectively.

Results

No significant differences in long-term survival and major morbidity were found amongst the three approaches. The hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) for 5-year overall survival for the simultaneous, delayed and liver-first approaches were 0.93 (0.69 - 1.24, P = 0.613), 0.97 (0.87 - 1.07, P = 0.596) and 0.90 (0.67 - 1.22, P = 0.499), respectively. Moreover, the liver-first approach with a surface under the cumulative ranking area score of 89% was ranked as the potentially best treatment option based on probabilities of treatment ranking.

Conclusions

On the basis of the relative ranking of treatments, the liver-first approach ranked first, followed by the delayed and simultaneous approaches. Therefore, a three-arm randomized controlled trial that compares the liver-first, simultaneous and delayed approaches needs to shed further light as to which is the best treatment option.

Local treatment of liver and lung metastases from colorectal cancer: a multicenter Tunisian study

Aim: Surgical treatment of hepatic or pulmonary metastases is the optimal therapeutic goal in metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC). Methods: Our retrospective study concerned 70 patients treated for CRC, collected from 2003 to 2015, presenting liver metastases (LM) in 61 cases and pulmonary metastases (PM) in nine cases, treated by surgery for their distant disease. We collected and compared their epidemiologic, anatomoclinical parameters and analyzed several prognostic factors. Results: Metastases were multiple (≥ 4) in 9/61 LM and in 5/9 PM. Patients had synchronous metastases in 32 cases (30 LM/2 PM) and metachronous metastases in 33 cases (32 LM and 11 PM). Surgery for LM consisted of metastasectomy (49/61), segmentectomy (5/61) and hepatectomy for the remaining seven patients; ten patients had also subsequent liver radiofrequency. LM were treated by wedge resection in 6/9 and lobectomy in two cases, radiofrequency was performed in five cases. 56/61 (80%) patients received chemotherapy, mostly FOLFOX protocol as the first-line treatment and targeted therapy in 55% of cases. For the overall population, median OS and PFS were, respectively, 44 and 32 months. We did not observe any significant difference in terms of OS (p = 0.659) and PFS (p = 0.318) between resected LM or/and PM. A better survival was found when there was disease-free interval between the occurrence of the primary and the metastases exceeded 18 months and in patients with less than four metastases. Conclusion: Resection of metastatic disease mostly in liver and lungs improves survival of patients with CRC. The patients with longer disease-free interval and less than four metastases had the best outcomes.

Laparoscopic combined resection of liver metastases and colorectal cancer: a multicenter, case-matched study using propensity scores

Background

Combined laparoscopic resection of liver metastases and colorectal cancer (LLCR) may hold benefits for selected patients but could increase complication rates. Previous studies have compared LLCR with liver resection alone. Propensity score-matched studies comparing LLCR with laparoscopic colorectal cancer resection (LCR) alone have not been performed.

Methods

A multicenter, case-matched study was performed comparing LLCR (2009–2016, 4 centers) with LCR alone (2009–2016, 2 centers). Patients were matched based on propensity scores in a 1:1 ratio. Propensity scores were calculated with the following preoperative variables: age, sex, ASA grade, neoadjuvant radiotherapy, type of colorectal resection and T and N stage of the primary tumor. Outcomes were compared using paired tests.

Results

Out of 1020 LCR and 64 LLCR procedures, 122 (2 × 61) patients could be matched. All 61 laparoscopic liver resections were minor hepatectomies, mostly because of a solitary liver metastasis (n = 44, 69%) of small size (≤ 3 cm) (n = 50, 78%). LLCR was associated with a modest increase in operative time [206 (166–308) vs. 197 (148–231) min, p = 0.057] and blood loss [200 (100–700) vs. 75 (5–200) ml, p = 0.011]. The rate of Clavien–Dindo grade 3 or higher complications [9 (15%) vs. 13 (21%), p = 0.418], anastomotic leakage [5 (8%) vs. 4 (7%), p = 1.0], conversion rate [3 (5%) vs. 5 (8%), p = 0.687] and 30-day mortality [0 vs. 1 (2%), p = 1.0] did not differ between LLCR and LCR.

Conclusion

In selected patients requiring minor hepatectomy, LLCR can be safely performed without increasing the risk of postoperative morbidity compared to LCR alone.

Surgical Strategies in Colorectal Cancer Metastatic to the Liver

Surgical resection remains a milestone in the treatment of colorectal metastases to the liver. There is a distinct subset of patients who benefit from surgical resection in terms of longer survival or definitive cure. The main effort of the surgical oncological regards the safety of the procedure and the adequacy of the recommendation. Many studies, some of them including multivariate analysis, have shown the presence of prognostic determinants of long-term survival and prognostic indexes of the outcome after hepatectomy. It is now accepted that liver resection should be done when the complete excision of all demonstrable tumor with clear resection margins is feasible. Major contra-indication is represented by the presence of extra-hepatic intra-abdominal disease or of unresectable lung metastatic deposits. There is a wide literature indicating that in very selected patients liver reresection and multiorgan synchronous or metachronous resections are beneficial. The role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and especially postoperative adjuvant local (intra-hepatic) and systemic chemotherapy is promising and supported by recent multicenter randomised clinical trials.

Simultaneous versus delayed hepatectomy for synchronous colorectal liver metastases: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

This was a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare outcomes between patients undergoing simultaneous or delayed hepatectomy for synchronous colorectal liver metastases.

BACKGROUND

The optimal strategy for treating liver disease among patients with resectable synchronous colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) is unclear. Simultaneous resection of primary tumour and liver metastases may improve patient experience by reducing the number of interventions. However, there are concerns of increased morbidity compared to delayed resections.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed using EMBASE, Medline, Cochrane library and Google scholar databases. Meta-analyses were performed using both random-effects and fixed-effect models. Publication and patient selection bias were assessed with funnel plots and sensitivity analysis.

RESULTS

Thirty studies including 5300 patients were identified. There were no statistically significant differences in parameters relating to safety and efficacy between the simultaneous and delayed hepatectomy cohorts. Patients undergoing delayed surgery were more likely to have bilobar disease or undergo major hepatectomy. The average length of hospital stay was six days shorter with simultaneous approach [MD = -6.27 (95% CI: -8.20, -4.34), p < 0.001]. Long term survival was similar for the two approaches [HR = 0.97 (95%CI: 0.88, 1.08), p = 0.601].

CONCLUSION

In selected patients, simultaneous resection of liver metastases with colorectal resection is associated with shorter hospital stay compared to delayed resections, without adversely affecting perioperative morbidity or long-term survival.

Resection of Colorectal Liver Metastases: Current Perspectives

BACKGROUND

Metastases to the liver is the leading cause of death in patients with colorectal cancer.

METHODS

The authors review the data on diagnosis and management of this clinical problem, and they discuss management options that can be considered.

RESULTS

Complete surgical resection of metastases from colorectal cancer that are localized to the liver results in 5-year survival rates ranging from 26% to 40%.

CONCLUSIONS

By adding modalities such as targeted systemic therapy and other "local" treatments for liver metastases, further gains in survival are anticipated.

Simultaneous Resection for Synchronous Colorectal Liver Metastasis: the New Standard of Care?

BACKGROUND

Optimal surgical management for patients with synchronous colorectal cancer liver metastasis is controversial. We provide an analysis of surgical utilization and outcomes for patients presenting with synchronous colon and rectal cancer liver metastasis between simultaneous and staged approaches.

METHODS

SPARCS database was used to follow patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer with liver metastases from 2005 to 2014. Using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes, we identified patients undergoing staged and simultaneous resection. Our primary endpoint was major events at 30-day follow-up.

RESULTS

Of the patients, 1430 underwent surgery for synchronous colorectal primary and liver metastases between 2005 and 2014. There was no difference in adjusted rates of major events or anastomotic leak. Patients undergoing simultaneous resection were significantly less likely to experience prolonged length of stay (OR = 0.28; 95% CI = 0.21-0.37) or high hospital charges (OR = 0.24; 95% CI = 0.17-0.32) compared to staged resection even among patients undergoing total hepatic lobectomy and complex colorectal resection.

CONCLUSIONS

Simultaneous resection was found to be equally as safe as staged resection even when evaluating patients undergoing more complex operations, and led to lower health care utilization. Under appropriate clinical circumstances, simultaneous resection offers benefits to patients and the health care system and should be the recommended surgical approach.

Simultaneous Colorectal and Liver Resections for Synchronous Colorectal Metastases

Background:

The surgical strategy for the treatment of colorectal cancer and synchronous hepatic metastases remains controversial. Many surgeons fear anastomotic leakage and intraperitoneal abscesses when performing a one-step procedure. They prefer a two-step procedure with a liver resection 2 to 3 months after resection of the colorectal primary lesion.

Subjects and Methods:

We analysed medical records from April 1994 to April 2002 for a total of 42 patients with colorectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases who underwent simultaneous liver and colorectal resections with a primary anastomosis. Special attention was paid to data on surgical procedures, postoperative morbidity, and mortality.

Results:

Forty-two patients, 24 men and 18 women, were studied. Median operating time was 6.50 hours (3.75–11.0 hours), and median blood loss was 1522 ml (range 288 to 5650 ml). Postoperative complications included pleural effusion in 4 patients, ileus in 3, anastomotic leakage in 2, intraperitoneal pelvic abscesses in 1, pneumonia in 1, bile leakage in 1, atelectasis in 1, and wound infection in 1. There was no perioperative mortality.

Conclusion:

Simultaneous colorectal resection with a primary anastomosis and hepatectomy for synchronous liver metastases is considered a safe procedure.

Long-term oncologic outcomes for simultaneous resection of synchronous metastatic liver and primary colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Twenty-five percent of patients with colorectal cancer present with simultaneous liver metastasis. Complete resection is the only potential curative treatment. Due to improvements in operative and perioperative management, simultaneous liver and colon resections are an accepted procedure at specialized centers for selected patients. Nevertheless, little is known about the long-term, oncologic results of simultaneous operative procedures compared with those of staged operations.

METHODS

Patients with colorectal cancer and simultaneous liver metastases presenting for complete resection at a tertiary cancer center were identified. Patients who received the primary colon resection at an outside institution were excluded from analysis.

RESULTS

Between 1984 and 2008, 429 patients underwent operative treatment for colorectal cancer with simultaneous liver metastasis. Of these, 320 (75%) had simultaneous resection and 109 had staged resection. There was no difference in the distribution of primary tumor locations between the 2 groups. Mean size of the hepatic metastases was significantly greater in the staged group (median 4 cm vs 2.5 cm; P < .01). Neither disease-free nor overall survival differed significantly between the 2 treatment strategies. The extent of the liver procedure (more than 3 segments) was identified as a risk factor for decreased disease-free and overall survival (both P < .01).

CONCLUSION

Simultaneous liver and colorectal resections for metastatic colorectal cancer are associated with similar long-term cancer outcome compared with staged procedures.

Simultaneous resection for rectal cancer with synchronous liver metastasis is a safe procedure

BACKGROUND

One quarter of colorectal cancer patients will present with liver metastasis at the time of diagnosis. Recent studies have shown that simultaneous resections are safe and feasible for stage IV colon cancer. Limited data are available for simultaneous surgery in stage IV rectal cancer patients.

METHODS

One hundred ninety-eight patients underwent surgical treatment for stage IV rectal cancer. In 145 (73%) patients, a simultaneous procedure was performed. Fifty-three (27%) patients underwent staged liver resection. A subpopulation of 69 (35%) patients underwent major liver resection (3 segments or more) and 30 (44%) patients with simultaneous surgery.

RESULTS

The demographics of the 2 groups were similar. Complication rates were comparable for simultaneous or staged resections, even in the group subjected to major liver resection. Total hospital stay was significantly shorter for the simultaneously resected patients (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Simultaneous resection of rectal primaries and liver metastases is a safe procedure in carefully selected patients at high-volume institutions, even if major liver resections are required.

Strategies for Management of Synchronous Colorectal Metastases

The management of synchronous presentation of colorectal cancer and liver metastases has long been a topic of debate and discussion for surgeons due to the unique dilemma of balancing operative timing along with treatment strategy. Operative strategies for resection include staged resection with colon first approach, "reverse" staged resection with liver metastases resected first, and one-stage, or simultaneous, resection of both the primary tumor and liver metastases approach. These operative strategies can be further augmented with perioperative chemotherapy and other novel approaches that may improve resectability and patient survival. The decision on operative timing and approach, however, remains largely dependent on the surgeon's determination of disease resectability, patient fitness, and the need for neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Systematic review of surgical management of synchronous colorectal liver metastases

BACKGROUND

The optimal management of colorectal cancer with synchronous liver metastases has not yet been elucidated. The aim of the present study was systematically to review current evidence concerning the timing and sequence of surgical interventions: colon first, liver first or simultaneous.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was performed of clinical studies comparing the timing and sequence of surgical interventions in patients with synchronous liver metastases. Retrospective studies were included but case reports and small case series were excluded. Preoperative and intraoperative data, length of hospital stay, perioperative mortality and morbidity, and 1-, 3- and 5-year survival rates were compared. The studies were evaluated according to a modification of the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) criteria.

RESULTS

Eighteen papers were included and 21 entries analysed. Five entries favoured the simultaneous approach regarding duration of procedure, whereas three showed no difference; five entries favoured simultaneous treatment in terms of blood loss, whereas in four there was no difference; and all studies comparing length of hospital stay favoured the simultaneous approach. Five studies favoured the simultaneous approach in terms of morbidity and eight found no difference, and no study demonstrated a difference in perioperative mortality. One study suggested a better 5-year survival rate after staged procedures, and another suggested worse 1-year but better 3- and 5-year survival rates following the simultaneous approach. The median MINORS score was 10, with incomplete follow-up and outcome reporting accounting primarily for low scores.

CONCLUSION

None of the three surgical strategies for synchronous colorectal liver metastases appeared inferior to the others.

Targeted therapies in colorectal cancer: surgical considerations

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading worldwide health concern that is responsible for thousands of deaths each year. The primary source of mortality for patients with CRC is the development and subsequent progression of metastatic disease. The most common site for distant metastatic disease is the liver. Although patients with metastatic disease to the liver have several effective treatment options, the only one for cure remains surgical resection of the liver metastases. Historically, most patients with liver metastases have had unresectable disease, and only a small percentage of patients have undergone complete curative resection. However, improved systemic therapies have led to an evolution in strategies to treat metastatic CRC to the liver. Under most conditions the management of these patients remains complex; and as chemotherapy options and new targeted therapies continue to improve outcomes, it is clear that a multidisciplinary approach must be the foundation on which advanced surgical and medical techniques are employed. Here, in this review, we highlight the role of targeted therapies in the surgical management of patients with metastatic CRC to the liver.

Timing of hepatectomy in resectable synchronous colorectal liver metastases (SCRLM): Simultaneous or delayed?

The optimal surgical strategy for treatment of patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases (SCLRM) remains controversial. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of all observational studies to define the safety and efficacy of simultaneous versus delayed resection of the colon and liver. A search for all major databases and relevant journals from inception to April 2012 without restriction on languages or regions was performed. Outcome measures were the primary parameters of postoperative survival, complication, and mortality, as well as other parameters of blood loss, operative time, and length of hospitalization. The test of heterogeneity was performed with the Q statistic. A total of 2,880 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Long-term oncological pooled estimates of overall survival (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.96; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.81-1.14; P = 0.64; I(2) = 0) and recurrence-free survival (HR: 1.04; 95% CI: 0.76-1.43; P = 0.79; I(2) = 53%) all showed similar outcomes for both simultaneous and delayed resections. A lower incidence of postoperative complication was attributed to the simultaneous group as opposed to that in the delayed group (modified relative ratio [RR] = 0.77; 95% CI: 0.67-0.89; P = 0.0002; I(2) = 10%), whereas in terms of mortality within the postoperative 60 days no statistical difference was detected (RR = 1.12; 95% CI: 0.61-2.08; P = 0.71; I(2) = 32%). Finally, selection criteria were recommended for SCRLM patients suitable for a simultaneous resection.

CONCLUSION

Simultaneous resection is as efficient as a delayed procedure for long-term survival. There is evidence that in SCRLM patients simultaneous resection is an acceptable and safe option with carefully selected conditions. Due to the inherent limitations of the present study, future randomized controlled trials will be useful to confirm this conclusion. (HEPATOLOGY 2013;57:2346-2357).

Surgical management of patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastasis: a multicenter international analysis

BACKGROUND

The goal of this study was to investigate the surgical management and outcomes of patients with primary colorectal cancer (CRC) and synchronous liver metastasis (sCRLM).

STUDY DESIGN

Using a multi-institutional database, we identified 1,004 patients treated for sCRLM between 1982 and 2011. Clinicopathologic and outcomes data were evaluated with uni- and multivariable analyses.

RESULTS

A simultaneous CRC and liver operation was performed in 329 (33%) patients; 675 (67%) underwent a staged approach ("classic" staged approach, n = 647; liver-first strategy, n = 28). Patients managed with the liver-first approach had more hepatic lesions and were more likely to have bilateral disease than those in the other 2 groups (p < 0.05). The use of staged operative strategies increased over the time of the study from 58% to 75% (p < 0.001). Liver-directed therapy included hepatectomy (90%) or combined resection + ablation (10%). A major resection (>3 segments) was more common with a staged approach (39% vs 24%; p < 0.001). Overall, 509 patients (50%) received chemotherapy in either the preoperative (22%) or adjuvant (28%) settings, with 11% of patients having both. There were 197 patients (20%) who had a complication in the postoperative period, with no difference in morbidity between staged and simultaneous groups or major vs minor hepatectomies (p > 0.05). Ninety-day postoperative mortality was 3.0%, with no difference between simultaneous and staged approaches (p = 0.94). The overall median and 5-year survivals were 50.9 months and 44%, respectively; long-term survival was the same regardless of the operative approach (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Simultaneous and staged resections for sCRLM can be performed with comparable morbidity, mortality, and long-term oncologic outcomes.

Meta-analysis of simultaneous versus staged resection for synchronous colorectal liver metastases

AIM

  There is no clear consensus on the optimal timing of surgical resection for synchronous colorectal liver metastases (SCLM). This study is a meta-analysis of the available evidence.

METHODS

  Systematic review and meta-analysis of trials comparing outcomes following simultaneous resection with staged resection for SCLM published from 1990 to 2010 in PubMed, Embase, Ovid and Medline. Pooled odds ratios (OR) or weighted mean differences (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated using either the fixed effects or random effects model.

RESULTS

  Nineteen non-randomized controlled trials (NRCT) studies were included in this analysis. These studies included a total of 2724 patients: 1116 underwent simultaneous resection and 1608 underwent staged resection. Meta-analysis showed that shorter hospital stay (P < 0.001) and lower total complication rate (P < 0.001) were observed in patients undergoing simultaneous resection group. The overall survival rate in the simultaneous resection group did not statistically differ with that in the staged resection group at 1 year (P = 0.13), 3 years (P = 0.26), 5 years (P = 0.38), as well as the 1, 3 and 5 years disease-free survival rates (respectively, P = 0.55; P = 0.16; P = 0.12). No significant difference was noted between the two groups in terms of mortality (P = 0.16), intraoperative blood loss (P = 0.06) and recurrence (P = 0.47).

CONCLUSION

  Simultaneous resection is safe and efficient in the treatment of patients with SCLM while avoiding a second laparotomy. In selected patients, simultaneous resection might be considered as the preferred approach. However, the findings have to be carefully interpreted due to the lower level of evidence and the existence of heterogeneity.

A meta-analysis comparing simultaneous versus delayed resections in patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases

INTRODUCTION

The traditional surgical management for patients presenting with synchronous colorectal liver metastases (SCLM) has been a delayed resection. However, in some centres, there has been a shift in favour of 'simultaneous' resections. The aim of this study was to use a meta-analytical model to compare the short-term and long-term outcomes in patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases (SCLM) undergoing simultaneous resections versus delayed resections.

METHOD

Comparative studies published between 1991 and 2010 were included. Evaluated endpoints were intra-operative parameters, post-operative parameters, post-operative adverse events and survival. A random-effects meta-analytical model was used and sensitivity analysis performed to account for bias in patient selection.

RESULTS

Twenty-four non-randomized studies were included, reporting on 3159 patients of which 1381 (43.7%) had simultaneous resections and 1778 (56.3%) had delayed resections. The bilobar distribution (P = 0.01), size of liver metastases (P < 0.001) and the proportion of major liver resections (P < 0.001) was found to be higher in the delayed resection group compared to the simultaneous resection group. There was no significant difference in operative blood loss (95% CI, -279.28, 22.53; P = 0.1) or duration of surgery (WMD -23.83, 95% CI, -85.04, 37.38; P = 0.45). Duration of hospital stay was significantly reduced in simultaneous resections by 5.6 days (95% CI: 2.4-8.9 days, P = 0.007) No significant differences in post-operative complications (36% vs 37%, P = 0.27), overall survival (HR 1.00, 95% CI 0.86-1.15, P = 0.96) or disease free survival (HR 0.85, 95% CI 0.71-1.02, P = 0.08) were found. Sensitivity analysis revealed that these findings were consistent for the duration of hospital stay, post-operative complications, overall survival and disease free survival.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that the selection criteria for patients undergoing simultaneous or delayed resections differs resulting in a discrepancy in the metastatic disease severity being compared between the two groups. The comparable intra-operative parameters, post-operative complications and survival found between the two groups suggest that delayed resections may result in better outcomes. Similarly, the reduced length of hospital stay in simultaneous resections may only be as a result of the reduced disease severity in this group. Simultaneous resections can only be recommended in patients with limited hepatic disease until prospective studies comparing similar disease burdens between the two resection groups are available.

Treatment strategy for colorectal cancer with resectable synchronous liver metastases: Is any evidence-based strategy possible?

Fifteen percent to twenty-five percent of patients affected by colorectal cancer presents with liver metastases at diagnosis. In resectable cases, surgery is the only potentially curative treatment and achieves survival rates up to 50% at 5 years. Management is complex, as colorectal resection, liver resection, chemotherapy, and, in locally advanced mid/low rectal tumors, radiotherapy have to be integrated. Modern medical practice usually relies on evidence-based protocols. Levels of evidence for synchronous metastases are poor: published studies include few recent prospective series and several retrospective analyses collecting a limited number of patients across long periods of time. Data are difficult to be generalized and are mainly representative of single centre's experience, biased by local recruitment, indications and surgical technique. In this context, surgeons have to renounce to "evidence-based medicine" and to adopt a sort of "experience-based medicine". Anyway, some suggestions are possible. Simultaneous colorectal and liver resection can be safely performed whenever minor hepatectomies are planned, while a case-by-case evaluation is mandatory in case of more complex procedures. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is preferentially scheduled for patients with advanced metastatic tumors to assess disease biology and to control lesions. It can be safely performed with primary tumor in situ, even planning simultaneous resection at its end. Locally advanced mid/low rectal tumor represents a further indication to neoadjuvant therapies, even if treatment's schedule is not yet standardized. In summary, several issues have to be solved, but every single HPB centre should define its proper strategy to optimize patient's selection, disease control and safety and completeness of surgery.

Synchronous resection of colorectal primary and hepatic metastasis

Up to 50% of the over 140,000 new colorectal cancer patients will present with synchronous colorectal cancer and liver metastasis. Surgical management of patients with resectable synchronous colorectal hepatic metastasis is complex and must consider multiple factors, including the presence of symptoms, location of primary tumor and liver metastases, extent of tumor (both primary and metastatic), patient performance status, and underlying comorbidities. Possible approaches to this select group of patients have included a synchronous resection of the colorectal primary and the hepatic metastases or a staged resection approach. The available literature regarding the safety of synchronous versus staged approaches confirms that a simultaneous resection may be performed in selected patients with acceptable morbidity and mortality. Perioperative mortality when minor hepatectomies are combined with colorectal resection is consistently ≤5%. Perioperative morbidity varies considerably following both synchronous and staged resections. However, the bulk of the existing literature confirms that simultaneous resections are both feasible and safe when hepatic resections are limited to <3 segments. Data regarding the oncologic outcomes following synchronous versus staged resections for Stage IV colorectal cancer are more limited than those available regarding postoperative morbidity and mortality. The available data suggest equivalent overall and disease-free survival regardless of timing of resection. Experience with minimally invasive combined colorectal and hepatic resections is extremely limited to date and consists exclusively of small single center series. The potential benefits of a minimally invasive approach will await the results of larger studies.

Optimizing clinical and economic outcomes of surgical therapy for patients with colorectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases

BACKGROUND

Traditionally, for patients with colorectal cancer with resectable synchronous liver metastases, resections were performed separately. However, the safety and efficacy of simultaneous resection have been demonstrated in selected patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes and economic implications of simultaneous and staged resections.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of consecutive colorectal cancer patients with resectable synchronous liver metastases treated between 1993 and 2010, constructing a decision tree comparing simultaneous and staged resections. For generalizability, the analysis was conducted from a payer perspective, using costs derived from 2010 Medicare reimbursement. Decision models incorporated the severity-refined DRG complications (complicating condition/major complicating condition) modifiers. Sensitivity analyses used alternative models of DRG reimbursement.

RESULTS

There were 144 patients analyzed. Sixty (41.7%) underwent simultaneous resection and 84 (58.3%) underwent staged resection. Median overall survival did not differ between the simultaneous and the staged cohorts (66.3 vs 65.6 months, respectively), nor did the overall complication rate (38.3% vs 40.5%, respectively). Median total length of hospitalization was significantly shorter in the simultaneous cohort (8 vs 14 days; p = 0.001). In the base model, the simultaneous strategy cost less than the staged strategy ($20,983 vs $25,298 per case)--a savings of 17.1%. Sensitivity analyses examining alternative severity-refined DRG reimbursements demonstrated potential cost savings, in all but 1 extreme sensitivity analysis, ranging from 9.8% to 27.3% favoring simultaneous resection.

CONCLUSIONS

The simultaneous resection strategy was oncologically equivalent and more cost efficient for patients with primary colorectal cancer presenting with resectable liver metastases. A reduction in overall length of hospital stay was an associated benefit. Future studies should explore the feasibility and clinical implications of policies to maximize the potential for simultaneous resection in this cohort of patients.

Laparoscopic versus open colorectal resections in patients with symptomatic stage IV colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to evaluate short-term and oncologic outcomes of laparoscopic resection (LR) for patients with symptomatic stage IV colorectal cancer compared with open resection (OR).

METHODS

This study is a retrospective analysis of a prospective database. Patients with a minimum follow-up of 12 months after LR or OR for metastatic colorectal cancer were included. All analyses were performed on an "intention-to-treat" basis.

RESULTS

A total of 162 consecutive patients submitted to LR and 127 submitted to OR were included. In the LR group, conversion rate was 26.5 %, mostly due to locally advanced disease (88.4 %). A greater risk of conversion was observed among patients with a tumor size greater than 5 cm regardless the tumor site (P = 0.07). Early postoperative outcome was significantly better for LR group, with a shorter hospital stay (P = 0.008), earlier onset of adjuvant treatment, and similar postoperative complications (P = 0.853) and mortality rates (P = 0.958). LR for rectal cancer was associated with a higher morbidity compared with colon cancer (P = 0.058). During a median follow-up time of 72 months, there was no significant difference in overall survival between the two groups (P = 0.622).

CONCLUSIONS

LR for symptomatic metastatic CRC is safe and, compared with OR, is associated with a shorter hospital stay and with similar survival rates. Concerns remain about LR of bulky tumors and rectal cancers due to the increased risk of conversion and postoperative complications.

Colorectal liver metastases

The diagnosis and management of CRLM is complex and requires a multidisciplinary team approach for optimal outcomes. Over the past several decades, the 5-year survival following resection of CRLM has increased and the criteria for resection have broadened substantially. Even patients with multiple, bilateral CRLM, previously thought unresectable, may now be candidates for resection. Two-stage hepatectomy, repeat curative-intent hepatectomy, and even selected resection of extrahepatic metastases have further increased the number of patients who may be treated with curative intent. Multiple liver-directed therapies exist to treat unresectable, incurable patients with adequate survival benefit and morbidity rates.

Prognostic factors in primary and iterative surgery of colorectal liver metastases

The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of surgery of colorectal liver metastases and assess prognostic factors influencing the outcome. A total of 135 hepatic resections performed in 107 patients was reviewed. The following prognostic factors were analyzed: primary tumor localization, Dukes stage, number and presence of metastases in one or two lobes, synchronous or metachronous occurrence, type of resection, use and modality of chemotherapy. The perioperative morbidity rate was 6.5% and mortality was 1.9%. Overall survival was 41.2% and disease-free survival 31.5% at 5 years. Survival at 5 years was better for patients with metachronous than for those with synchronous lesions (60.9% vs 28.1%; p<0.05). There were no significant differences in terms of long-term survival between patients with synchronous metastases that were excised simultaneously or with a delay of 3-6 months (p=n.s.). Site of the primary tumor, Dukes stage, number of metastases and type of resection did not influence survival. A favorable survival trend was observed in those patients who underwent both neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy. The overall survival rate at 5 years was 45.3% for patients undergoing a second hepatic resection and 50% for those with a third or a fourth hepatic resection. Liver resection remains the "gold standard" for the treatment of patients with colorectal liver metastases, with metachronous type having a better outcome than synchronous. Simultaneous or delayed surgery for synchronous metastases does not influence prognosis. Iterative resection is very encouraging and justifies an aggressive surgical approach.

Simultaneous vs. staged resection for synchronous colorectal liver metastases: a metaanalysis

PURPOSE

The optimal timing of surgical resection for synchronous colorectal liver metastases (SCLMs) remains controversial. The aim of this metaanalysis was to compare outcomes between simultaneous resection and staged resection from all published comparative studies in the literature.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Ovid, and Web of Science, were searched to identify studies comparing outcomes following simultaneous resection with staged resection for SCLM. The metaanalysis was performed by RevMan 4.2.

RESULTS

Fourteen comparative studies comprising 2,204 patients were identified. Patients undergoing simultaneous resection were found to have similar operative time (weighted mean difference [WMD], -34.19; 95% confidence interval [CI], -81.32-12.95, P = .16) and intraoperative blood loss (WMD, -161.33; 95% CI, -351.45-28.79, P = .10). Shorter hospital stay (WMD, -4.77; 95% CI, -7.26-2.28, P < .01) and lower morbidity rate (odds ratio [OR], 0.71; 95% CI, 0.57-0.88, P = .002) were observed in simultaneous resection group. The survival rate in the simultaneous resection group did not statistically differ with that in the staged resection group at 1 year (OR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.51-1.16, P = .21), 3 years (OR, 1.12; 95% CI, 0.85-1.47, P = .43), and 5 years (OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 0.86-1.50, P = .37) postresection, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Simultaneous resection is safe and efficient in the treatment of patients with SCLM while avoiding a second major operation. In appropriately selected patients, simultaneous resection might be considered as the preferred treatment. Since heterogeneity was detected, caution is needed in interpretation of the results. Better designed, adequately powered studies are required for addressing this issue.

Surgical treatment of hepatic metastases from colorectal cancer

Colorectal carcinoma is one of the most frequent cancers in Western societies with an incidence of around 700 per million people. About half of the patients develop metastases from the primary tumor and liver is the primary metastatic site. Improved survival rates after hepatectomy for metastatic colorectal cancer have been reported in the last few years and these may be the result of a variety of factors, such as advances in systemic chemotherapy, radiographic imaging techniques that permit more accurate determination of the extent and location of the metastatic burden, local ablation methods, and in surgical techniques of hepatic resection. These have led to a more aggressive approach towards liver metastatic disease, resulting in longer survival. The goal of this paper is to review the role of various forms of surgery in the treatment of hepatic metastases from colorectal cancer.

Laparoscopic major hepatectomy can be safely performed with colorectal surgery for synchronous colorectal liver metastasis

BACKGROUND

The optimal strategy for resectable synchronous colorectal liver metastases remains controversial. Although some authors advocate a staged treatment, an increasing number of studies have reported that combined colorectal and liver resection is safe. Laparoscopic combined resection in primary colorectal cancer with synchronous liver metastases has been reported but there are no specific data for major liver resections. In the present study, we evaluated the feasibility of a simultaneous entirely laparoscopic procedure, in the light of the benefits of laparoscopy in both colon and liver surgery, and discussed the benefits of this strategy.

METHODS

Two cases are presented of totally laparoscopic major liver resections associated with laparoscopic colorectal resections for synchronous liver metastases with the emphasis on the technical aspects. Duration of surgery, blood loss and post-operative outcome were evaluated.

RESULTS

  Laparoscopic right hepatectomy or left hepatectomy with simultaneous colon resection for liver metastasis was feasible and safe with only one suprapubic 5-mm trocar added to the usual trocar sites. The mean duration of surgery was 327 min with a mean estimated blood loss of 200 ml. The post-operative course was uneventful.

DISCUSSION

In selected patients, laparoscopic major hepatectomies for unilobular synchronous metastases can be safely performed simultaneously with colorectal surgery.

Extending limits of resection for metastatic colorectal cancer: risk benefit ratio

Improvements in treatment strategies and a better knowledge of tumor biology have contributed to an increase in the number of patients with colorectal liver metastases (CLM) who are candidate for surgery. These progresses are on going and the introduction of effective systemic therapy agents contributes further to the increase in the resectability of patients with advanced CLM.

Timing of resection for synchronous liver metastases from colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to compare the surgical outcome and long-term survival between simultaneous and delayed resection of liver metastases from colorectal cancer (LM), and to identify the factors influencing hepatic disease-free survival in patients with synchronous LM.

METHODS

Seventy-four patients with LM were divided into two groups, i.e., 32 patients who underwent hepatectomy at the time of colorectal surgery (simultaneous group) and 42 patients who underwent delayed liver resection (delayed group).

RESULTS

The hepatic disease-free survival rates of patients from the delayed group with either ≥ 3 or <3 liver metastases were significantly better than that of the simultaneous group. Multivariate analysis showed that simultaneous resection was one of three independent prognostic indicators with an influence on hepatic disease-free survival. In 13 of the 42 (31%) patients from the delayed group, new metastatic lesions were found in the same and/or different segments after re-evaluation during the interval between operations. These patients had a higher incidence of poorly differentiated or mucinous adenocarcinoma, shorter interval between procedures, and larger tumors than patients without tumor progression.

CONCLUSIONS

Tumor progression could be recognized and occult metastases were detected during the interval between operations. Delayed resection of synchronous LM may be useful to reduce the risk of rapid recurrence in the remnant liver. Patients with poorly differentiated or mucinous adenocarcinoma and those with larger tumors who undergo delayed liver resection should receive neoadjuvant chemotherapy during the interval between operations.

Sequential surgical resection of hepatic and pulmonary metastases from colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Resection of isolated hepatic or pulmonary metastases from colorectal cancer is widely accepted and associated with a 5-year survival rate of 25-40%. The value of aggressive surgical management in patients with both hepatic and pulmonary metastases still remains a controversial area.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of 1,497 patients with colorectal carcinoma (CRC) was analysed. Of 73 patients identified with resection of CRC and, at some point in time, both liver and lung metastases, 17 patients underwent metastasectomy (resection group). The remaining 56 patients comprised the non-resection group. Primary tumour, hepatic and pulmonary metastases of all patients were surgically treated in our department of surgery, and the results are that of a single institution.

RESULTS

The resection group had a 3-year survival of 77%, a 5-year survival of 55% and a 10-year survival of 18%; median survival was 98 months. The longest overall survival was 136 months; six patients are still alive. In the resection group, overall survival was significantly higher than in the non-resection group (p < 0.01). Independent from the chronology of metastasectomy, 5-year survival was 55% with respect to the primary resection, 28% with respect to the first metastasectomy and 14% with respect to the second metastasectomy. A disease-free interval (>18 months), stage III (UICC) and age (<70 years) were found to be significant prognostic factors for overall survival.

CONCLUSION

Our report strongly supports aggressive surgical therapy in patients with both hepatic and pulmonary metastases from CRC. Overall survival for surgically treated selected patients with both hepatic and pulmonary metastases from CRC is comparable to hepatic or pulmonary metastasectomy. Simultaneous metastases tend to have a poorer outcome than metachronous metastases.

Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastases – Understanding the Differences in the Management of Synchronous and Metachronous Disease

Introduction: Metastatic disease to the liver in colorectal cancer is a common entity that may present synchronously or metachronously. While increasing surgical experience has improved survival outcomes, some evidence suggest that synchronous lesions should be managed differently. This review aims to update current literature on differences between the outcomes and management of synchronous and metachronous disease. Materials and Methods: Systematic review of MEDLINE database up till November 2008. Results: Discrete differences in tumour biology have been identified in separate studies. Twenty-one articles comparing outcomes were reviewed. Definitions of metachronicity varied from anytime after primary tumour evaluation to 1 year after surgery for primary tumour. Most studies reported that synchronous lesions were associated with poorer survival rates (8% to 16% reduction over 5 years). Sixteen articles comparing combined vs staged resections for synchronous tumour showed comparable morbidity and mortality. Benefits over staged resections included shorter hospital stays and earlier initiation of chemotherapy. Suitability for combined resection depended on patient age and constitution, primary tumour characteristics, size and the number of liver metastases, and the extent of liver involvement. Conclusions: Surgery remains the only treatment option that offers a chance of long-term survival for patients amenable to curative resection. Synchronicity suggests more aggressive disease although a unifying theory for biological differences explaining the disparity in tumour behaviour has not been found. Combined resection of primary tumour and synchronous metastases is a viable option pending careful patient selection and institutional experience. Given the current evidence, management of synchronous and metachronous colorectal liver metastases needs to be individualised to the needs of each patient. Key words: Colorectal neoplasms, Liver neoplasms, Neoplasm metastasis, Synchronous Cancer, Metachronous cancer

Comparison of simultaneous or delayed liver surgery for limited synchronous colorectal metastases

BACKGROUND

The optimal surgical strategy for patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases (CLMs) is still unclear. The aim of this study was to compare simultaneous colorectal and hepatic resection with a delayed strategy in patients who had a limited hepatectomy (fewer than three segments).

METHODS

All patients with synchronous CLMs who underwent limited hepatectomy between 1990 and 2006 were included retrospectively. Short-term outcome, overall and progression-free survival were compared in patients having simultaneous colorectal and hepatic resection and those treated by delayed hepatectomy.

RESULTS

Of 228 patients undergoing hepatectomy for synchronous CLMs, 55 (24.1 per cent) had a simultaneous colorectal resection and 173 (75.9 per cent) had delayed hepatectomy. The mortality rate following hepatectomy was similar in the two groups (0 versus 0.6 per cent respectively; P = 0.557), but cumulative morbidity was significantly lower in the simultaneous group (11 per cent versus 25.4 per cent in the delayed group; P = 0.015). Three-year overall and progression-free survival rates were 74 and 8 per cent respectively in the simultaneous group, compared with 70.3 and 26.1 per cent in the delayed group (overall survival: P = 0.871; progression-free survival: P = 0.005). Significantly more recurrences were observed in the simultaneous group at 3 years (85 versus 63.6 per cent; P = 0.002); a simultaneous strategy was an independent predictor of recurrence.

CONCLUSION

Combining colorectal resection with a limited hepatectomy is safe in patients with synchronous CLMs and associated with less cumulative morbidity than a delayed procedure. However, the combined strategy has a negative impact on progression-free survival.

Surgical strategies for synchronous colorectal liver metastases in 156 consecutive patients: classic, combined or reverse strategy?

BACKGROUND

An increasing number of patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases (CLM) are candidates for resection. The optimal treatment sequence in these patients has not been defined.

STUDY DESIGN

Data on 156 consecutive patients with synchronous resectable CLM and intact primary were reviewed. Surgical strategies were defined as combined (combined resection of primary and liver), classic (primary before liver), and reverse (liver before primary) after preoperative chemotherapy. Postoperative morbidity and mortality rates and overall survival were analyzed.

RESULTS

One hundred forty-two patients (83%) had resection of all disease. Seventy-two patients underwent classic, 43 combined, and 27 reverse strategies. Median numbers of CLMs per patient were 1 in the combined, 3 in the classic, and 4 in the reverse strategy group (p = 0.01 classic vs reverse; p < 0.001 reverse vs combined). Postoperative mortality rates in the combined, classic, and reverse strategies were 5%, 3%, and 0%, respectively (p = NS), and postoperative cumulative morbidity rates were 47%, 51%, and 31%, respectively (p = NS). Three-year and 5-year overall survival rates were, respectively, 65% and 55% in the combined, 58% and 48% in the classic, and 79% and 39% in the reverse strategy (NS). On multivariate analysis, liver tumor size >3 cm (hazard ratio [HR] 2.72, 95% CI 1.52 to 4.88) and cumulative postoperative morbidity (HR 1.8, 95% CI 1.03 to 3.19) were independently associated with overall survival after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The classic, combined, or reverse surgical strategies in patients with synchronous presentation of CLM are associated with similar outcomes. The reverse strategy can be considered as an alternative option in patients with advanced CLM and an asymptomatic primary.

Timing of multimodality therapy for resectable synchronous colorectal liver metastases: a retrospective multi-institutional analysis

The optimal timing of chemotherapy relative to resection of synchronous colorectal liver metastases (SCRLM) is not known. The objective of this retrospective multi-institutional study was to assess the influence of chemotherapy administered before and after hepatic resection on long-term outcomes among patients with initially resectable SCRLM treated from 1995 to 2005. Clinicopathologic data, treatments, and long-term outcomes from patients with initially resectable SCRLM who underwent partial hepatectomy at three hepatobiliary centers were reviewed. Four hundred ninety-nine consecutive patients underwent resection; 297 (59.5%) and 264 (52.9%) were treated with chemotherapy before and after resection. Chemotherapy strategies included pre-hepatectomy alone (n = 148, 24.7%), post-hepatectomy alone (n = 115, 23.0%), perioperative (n = 149, 29.0%), and no chemotherapy (n = 87, 17.4%). Male gender (p = 0.0029, HR = 1.41 [1.12-1.77]), node-positive primary tumor (p = 0.0046, HR = 1.40 [1.11-1.77]), four or more SCRLM (p = 0.0005, HR = 1.65 [1.24-2.18]), and post-hepatectomy chemotherapy treatment for 6 months or longer (p = 0.039, HR = 0.75 [0.57-0.99]) were associated with recurrence-free survival after discovery of SCRLM. Carcinoembryonic antigen >200 ng/ml (p = 0.0003, HR = 2.33 [1.48-3.69]), extrahepatic metastatic disease (p = 0.0025, HR = 2.34 [1.35-4.05]), four or more SCRLM (p = 0.033, HR = 1.43 [1.03-2.00]), and post-hepatectomy chemotherapy treatment for 2 months or longer (p < 0.0001, HR = 0.59 [0.45-0.76]) were associated with overall survival. Pre-hepatectomy chemotherapy was not associated with recurrence-free or overall survival. Patients treated with perioperative chemotherapy had similar outcomes as patients treated with post-hepatectomy chemotherapy only. We conclude that chemotherapy administered after but not before resection of SCRLM was associated with improved recurrence-free and overall survival. However, prospective randomized trials are needed to determine the optimal timing of chemotherapy.

Synchronous colorectal liver metastases: is it time to reconsider traditional paradigms of management?

BACKGROUND

Patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases (CLM) are typically treated with initial colorectal resection followed by arbitrary and prolonged courses of chemotherapy. Partial hepatectomy is considered only for patients without interval disease progression. This review describes the rationale for this treatment approach and the recent developments suggesting that this management paradigm should be reconsidered.

RESULTS

Because asymptomatic colorectal cancer often does not lead to complications, and given the potential benefit of chemotherapy in downsizing unresectable to resectable liver disease, most patients with asymptomatic primary tumors and unresectable synchronous CLM should be first treated with chemotherapy. In contrast, initial hepatic resection should be considered for resectable synchronous CLM. Survival benefits from prehepatectomy chemotherapy have not been established. Several reports demonstrate morbidity after hepatic resection from extended durations of irinotecan- and/or oxaliplatin-based prehepatectomy chemotherapy. Although shorter treatment periods may not have these deleterious effects on subsequent hepatic resection, prospective studies reveal that most patients with supposedly aggressive disease with short treatment durations will not be identified. Moreover, a complete radiologic response to prehepatectomy chemotherapy is not only rare but also does not equate with a complete pathological response. Finally, several studies suggest that simultaneous colorectal and minor hepatic resections can performed safely with benefits in total morbidity when compared with traditional staged procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

The traditional treatment paradigm centering on the utility of prehepatectomy chemotherapy for resectable synchronous CLM should be reconsidered. Recent developments underscore the need for prospective randomized controlled trials evaluating the optimal timing of hepatectomy relative to chemotherapy.

Simultaneous versus staged resection for synchronous colorectal cancer liver metastases

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to compare postoperative outcomes of patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases treated with either simultaneous or staged colectomy and hepatectomy.

STUDY DESIGN

From July 1997 to June 2008, a review of our 1,344-patient prospective hepato-pancreatico-biliary database identified 230 patients treated surgically for primary adenocarcinoma of the large bowel and synchronous hepatic metastasis. Clinicopathologic, operative, and perioperative data, complications, and grade of complications (grade 1, minor, to grade 5, death) were reviewed to evaluate selection criteria, operative methods, and perioperative outcomes. Chi-square and proportional hazard model were used to evaluate predictors of outcomes.

RESULTS

Seventy patients underwent simultaneous resection of colon primary and liver metastasis in a single operation; 160 patients underwent staged operations. Simultaneous resections were similar for size (median 4 cm versus 3.7 cm) and number (median 3 cm versus 3 cm) of liver metastases. Major liver resections (>or=3 Couinaud segments) were similar between staged and simultaneous (32% versus 33%, respectively), as was type of colectomy (p=0.2). Complication rates and severity were similar in both groups: 39 of 70 patients (56%) in the simultaneous group experienced 63 complications versus 88 of 160 patients (55%) with 162 complications in the staged group (p=0.24). Multivariate analysis identified blood transfusion as a predictor of complication (odds ratio 2.98, p=0.001). Patients having simultaneous resection required fewer days in the hospital (median 10 days versus 18 days, p=0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

By avoiding a second laparotomy, simultaneous colon and hepatic resection reduces overall hospital stay, with no difference in morbidity and mortality rates or in severity of complications, compared with staged resection. Simultaneous resection is an acceptable option in patients with resectable synchronous colorectal metastasis.

Staged or simultaneous resection of synchronous liver metastases from colorectal cancer--a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

A systematic review of the literature was undertaken to estimate the differences in length of hospital stay, morbidity, mortality and long-term survival between staged and simultaneous resection of synchronous liver metastases from colorectal cancer to determine the level of evidence for recommendations of a treatment strategy.

METHOD

A Pub-med search was undertaken for studies comparing patients with synchronous liver metastases, who either had a combined or staged resection of metastases. Twenty-six were considered and 16 were included based on Newcastle Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. All studies were retrospective and had a general bias, because the staged procedure was significantly more often undertaken in patients with left-sided primary tumours and larger, more numerous and bi-lobar metastases. Analyses of primary outcomes were performed using the random effects model.

RESULTS

For the reason of the heterogeneity of the observational studies, no odds ratios were calculated. In 11 studies, there was a tendency towards a shorter hospital stay in the synchronous resection group. Fourteen studies compared total perioperative morbidity and lower morbidity was observed in favour of a combined resection. Fifteen studies compared perioperative mortality, which seemed to be lower with the staged approach. Eleven studies compared 5-year survival, which seemed to be similar in the two groups.

CONCLUSION

No randomized controlled trials were identified, and hence a meta-analysis was not performed. The evidence level is II to III with grade C recommendations. Synchronous resections can be undertaken in selected patients, provided that surgeons specialized in colorectal and hepatobiliary surgery are available.

Survival of patients with synchronous and metachronous colorectal liver metastases--is there a difference?

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to compare outcomes in patients with synchronous and metachronous colorectal liver metastases, with special emphasis on prognostic determinants.

STUDY DESIGN

We analyzed prospectively collected data on 101 patients with synchronous metastases (group A) who were treated surgically during the time period from April 1998 to December 2006 in regard to overall and disease-free survival, impact of chemotherapy, as well as several serum parameters. A group of patients with metachronous colorectal liver metastases (group B) was considered for baseline comparison.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients in group A received only an explorative laparotomy. Surgical treatment included right hepatectomy (n = 7), left hepatectomy (n = 5), right trisectionectomy (n = 10), left trisectionectomy (n = 1), left lateral resection (n = 11), and sectionectomy (n = 44). Thirty-day mortality was 3%. Morbidity was observed in 10% of the patients. One-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival rates for synchronous metastases were 86%, 68%, and 47%, respectively. The corresponding rates for metachronous metastases were 94%, 68%, and 39% (p > 0.05). Disease free survival was 74%, 42%, and 33% in group A versus 84%, 62%, and 13% in group B (p = 0.28). There was no difference in survival between patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy and no chemotherapy (p > 0.05). Out of all serum parameters, carcinoembryonic antigen levels were a negative predictor for overall and disease-free survival only.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases had a similar 5-year overall and disease-free survival, which corresponds to patients with metachronous metastases. The impact of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with synchronous metastases needs to be further clarified.

Simultaneous versus staged liver resection of synchronous liver metastases from colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The surgical strategy for treatment of synchronous liver metastases from colorectal cancer remains controversial. This retrospective analysis was conducted to compare the postoperative outcome and survival of patients receiving simultaneous resection of liver metastases and primary colorectal cancer to those receiving staged resection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 1988 and September 2005, 219 patients underwent liver resection for synchronous colorectal liver metastases, of whom, 40 patients received simultaneous resection of liver metastases and primary colorectal cancer, and 179 patients staged resections. Patients were identified from a prospective database, and records were retrospectively reviewed. Patient, tumor, and operative parameters were analyzed for their influence on postoperative morbidity and mortality as well as on long-term survival.

RESULTS

Simultaneous liver resections tend to be performed for colon primaries rather than for rectal cancer (p = 0.004) and used less extensive liver resections (p < 0.001). The postoperative morbidity was comparable between both groups, whereas the mortality was significantly higher in patients with simultaneous liver resection (p = 0.012). The mortality after simultaneous liver resection (n = 4) occurred after major hepatectomies, and three of these four patients were 70 years of age or older. There was no significant difference in long-term survival after formally curative simultaneous and staged liver resection.

CONCLUSION

Simultaneous liver and colorectal resection is as efficient as staged resections in the treatment of patients with colorectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases. To perform simultaneous resections safely a careful patient selection is necessary. The most important criteria to select patients for simultaneous liver resection are age of the patient and extent of liver resection.

Simultaneous resections of colorectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases: a multi-institutional analysis

BACKGROUND

The safety of simultaneous resections of colorectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases (SCRLM) is not established. This multi-institutional retrospective study compared postoperative outcomes after simultaneous and staged colorectal and hepatic resections.

METHODS

Clinicopathologic data, treatments, and postoperative outcomes from patients who underwent simultaneous or staged colorectal and hepatic resections at three hepatobiliary centers from 1985-2006 were reviewed.

RESULTS

610 patients underwent simultaneous (n = 135) or staged (n = 475) resections of colorectal cancer and SCRLM. Seventy staged patients underwent colorectal and hepatic resections at the same institution. Simultaneous patients had fewer (median 1 versus 2) and smaller (median 2.5 versus 3.5 cm) metastases and less often underwent major (> or = three segments) hepatectomy (26.7% versus 61.3%, p < 0.05). Combined hospital stay was lower after simultaneous resections (median 8.5 versus 14 days, p < 0.0001). Mortality (1.0% versus 0.5%) and severe morbidity (14.1% versus 12.5%) were similar after simultaneous colorectal resection and minor hepatectomy compared with isolated minor hepatectomy (both p > 0.05). For major hepatectomy, simultaneous colorectal resection increased mortality (8.3% versus 1.4%, p < 0.05) and severe morbidity (36.1% versus 15.1%, p < 0.05). Combined severe morbidity after staged resections was lower compared to simultaneous resections (36.1% versus 17.6%, p = 0.05) for major hepatectomy but similar for minor hepatectomy (14.1% versus 10.5%, p > 0.05). Major hepatectomy independently predicted severe morbidity after simultaneous resections [hazard ratio (HR) = 3.4, p = 0.008].

CONCLUSIONS

Simultaneous colorectal and minor hepatic resections are safe and should be performed for most patients with SCRLM. Due to increased risk of severe morbidity, caution should be exercised before performing simultaneous colorectal and major hepatic resections.