The oncosurgery approach to managing liver metastases from colorectal cancer: a multidisciplinary international consensus

Utility of circulating tumor DNA in secondary liver malignancies: What we know and what is to come

Secondary liver malignancies are a serious and challenging global health concern. Secondary metastasis to the liver is most commonly from colorectal cancer that has metastatically spread through splanchnic circulation. Metastatic diseases can portend poor prognosis due to the progressive nature typically found on detection. Improvements in detection of disease, monitoring therapy response, and monitoring for recurrence are crucial to the improvement in the management of secondary liver malignancies. Assessment of ctDNA in these patient populations poses an opportunity to impact the management of secondary liver malignancies. In this review, we aim to discuss ctDNA, the current literature, and future directions of this technology within secondary liver malignancies.

Neoadjuvant Statistical Algorithm to Predict Individual Risk of Relapse in Patients with Resected Liver Metastases from Colorectal Cancer

(1) Background: Liver metastases (LM) are the leading cause of death in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. Despite advancements, relapse rates remain high and current prognostic nomograms lack accuracy. Our objective is to develop an interpretable neoadjuvant algorithm based on mathematical models to accurately predict individual risk, ensuring mathematical transparency and auditability. (2) Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 86 CRC patients with LM treated with neoadjuvant systemic therapy followed by complete surgical resection. A comprehensive analysis of 155 individual patient variables was performed. Logistic regression (LR) was utilized to develop the predictive model for relapse risk through significance testing and ANOVA analysis. Due to data limitations, gradient boosting machine (GBM) and synthetic data were also used. (3) Results: The model was based on data from 74 patients (12 were excluded). After a median follow-up of 58 months, 5-year relapse-free survival (RFS) rate was 33% and 5-year overall survival (OS) rate was 60.7%. Fifteen key variables were used to train the GBM model, which showed promising accuracy (0.82), sensitivity (0.59), and specificity (0.96) in predicting relapse. Similar results were obtained when external validation was performed as well. (4) Conclusions: This model offers an alternative for predicting individual relapse risk, aiding in personalized adjuvant therapy and follow-up strategies.

Prognostic value of total tumor volume in patients with colorectal liver metastases: A secondary analysis of the randomized CAIRO5 trial with external cohort validation

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to assess the prognostic value of total tumor volume (TTV) for early recurrence (within 6 months) and overall survival (OS) in patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM), treated with induction systemic therapy followed by complete local treatment.

METHODS

Patients with initially unresectable CRLM from the multicenter randomized phase 3 CAIRO5 trial (NCT02162563) who received induction systemic therapy followed by local treatment were included. Baseline TTV and change in TTV as response to systemic therapy were calculated using the CT scan before and the first after systemic treatment, and were assessed for their added prognostic value. The findings were validated in an external cohort of patients treated at a tertiary center.

RESULTS

In total, 215 CAIRO5 patients were included. Baseline TTV and absolute change in TTV were significantly associated with early recurrence (P = 0.005 and P = 0.040, respectively) and OS in multivariable analyses (P = 0.024 and P = 0.006, respectively), whereas RECIST1.1 was not prognostic for early recurrence (P = 0.88) and OS (P = 0.35). In the validation cohort (n = 85), baseline TTV and absolute change in TTV remained prognostic for early recurrence (P = 0.041 and P = 0.021, respectively) and OS in multivariable analyses (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.012, respectively), and showed added prognostic value over conventional clinicopathological variables (increase C-statistic, 0.06; 95 % CI, 0.02 to 0.14; P = 0.008).

CONCLUSION

Total tumor volume is strongly prognostic for early recurrence and OS in patients who underwent complete local treatment of initially unresectable CRLM, both in the CAIRO5 trial and the validation cohort. In contrast, RECIST1.1 did not show prognostic value for neither early recurrence nor OS.

Colorectal cancer

Despite decreased incidence rates in average-age onset patients in high-income economies, colorectal cancer is the third most diagnosed cancer in the world, with increasing rates in emerging economies. Furthermore, early onset colorectal cancer (age ≤50 years) is of increasing concern globally. Over the past decade, research advances have increased biological knowledge, treatment options, and overall survival rates. The increase in life expectancy is attributed to an increase in effective systemic therapy, improved treatment selection, and expanded locoregional surgical options. Ongoing developments are focused on the role of sphincter preservation, precision oncology for molecular alterations, use of circulating tumour DNA, analysis of the gut microbiome, as well as the role of locoregional strategies for colorectal cancer liver metastases. This overview is to provide a general multidisciplinary perspective of clinical advances in colorectal cancer.

Critical appraisal of surgical margins according to KRAS status in liver resection for colorectal liver metastases: Should surgical strategy be influenced by tumor biology?

BACKGROUND

KRAS mutation is a negative prognostic factor for colorectal liver metastases. Several studies have investigated the resection margins according to KRAS status, with conflicting results. The aim of the study was to assess the oncologic outcomes of R0 and R1 resections for colorectal liver metastases according to KRAS status.

METHODS

All patients who underwent resection for colorectal liver metastases between 2010 and 2015 with available KRAS status were enrolled in this multicentric international cohort study. Logistic regression models were used to investigate the outcomes of R0 and R1 colorectal liver metastases resections according to KRAS status: wild type versus mutated. The primary outcomes were overall survival and disease-free survival.

RESULTS

The analysis included 593 patients. KRAS mutation was associated with shorter overall survival (40 vs 60 months; P = .0012) and disease-free survival (15 vs 21 months; P = .003). In KRAS-mutated tumors, the resection margin did not influence oncologic outcomes. In multivariable analysis, the only predictor of disease-free survival and overall survival was primary tumor location (P = .03 and P = .03, respectively). In KRAS wild-type tumors, R0 resection was associated with prolonged overall survival (74 vs 45 months, P < .001) and disease-free survival (30 vs 17 months, P < .001). The multivariable model confirmed that R0 resection margin was associated with prolonged overall survival (hazard ratio = 1.43, 95% confidence interval: 1.01-2.03) and disease-free survival (hazard ratio = 1.42; 95% confidence interval: 1.06-1.91).

CONCLUSIONS

KRAS-mutated colorectal liver metastases showed more aggressive tumor biology with inferior overall survival and disease-free survival after liver resection. Although R0 resection was not associated with improved oncologic outcomes in the KRAS-mutated tumors group, it seems to be of paramount importance for achieving prolonged long-term survival in KRAS wild-type tumors.

CT versus MR guidance for radiofrequency ablation in patients with colorectal liver metastases: a 10-year follow-up favors MR guidance

OBJECTIVES

To compare the results of CT- vs MR-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of liver metastases (LM) from colorectal cancer after 10 years of follow-up in an observational, retrospective, and multicentric study.

METHODS

A total of 238 patients with 496 LM were treated with RFA either with CT (CT group) or magnetic resonance (MR group) guidance. Every ablated LM was assessed and followed up with diagnostic MRI. Technical success, technique efficacy, predictive factors, recurrence rates, and overall survival were assessed.

RESULTS

The CT group comprised 143 patients and the MR group 77 patients. Eighteen patients underwent ablation with both modalities. Technical success per patient and per lesion was 88% and 93% for CT and 87% and 89.6% for MR, and technique efficacy was 97.1% and 98.6% for CT and 98.7% and 99.3% for MR respectively. Local recurrence following the first ablation (primary patency) occurred in 20.1% (CT) vs 4.6% (MR) (p < 0.001). Residual liver tumor, size of LM, and advanced N and M stage at initial diagnosis were independent predictors for overall survival in both groups. The median overall survival measured from first RFA treatment was 2.6 years. The 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year survival were 85.9%, 25.5%, and 19.1% respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The MR group had significantly better local control compared to the CT group. There was no significant difference in patient survival between the two groups.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

MR-guided radiofrequency ablation of colorectal liver metastases is safe and effective, and offers better local control than CT-guided ablation.

KEY POINTS

• Imaging modality for radiofrequency ablation guidance is an independent predictor of local recurrence in colorectal liver metastases. • MR-guided radiofrequency ablation achieved better local control of liver metastases from colorectal cancer than CT-guided. • The number and size of liver metastases are, among others, independent predictors of survival. Radiofrequency ablation with MR guidance improved clinical outcome but does not affect survival.

Machine learning prediction model for gray-level co-occurrence matrix features of synchronous liver metastasis in colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Synchronous liver metastasis (SLM) is a significant contributor to morbidity in colorectal cancer (CRC). There are no effective predictive device integration algorithms to predict adverse SLM events during the diagnosis of CRC.

AIM

To explore the risk factors for SLM in CRC and construct a visual prediction model based on gray-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) features collected from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

METHODS

Our study retrospectively enrolled 392 patients with CRC from Yichang Central People's Hospital from January 2015 to May 2023. Patients were randomly divided into a training and validation group (3:7). The clinical parameters and GLCM features extracted from MRI were included as candidate variables. The prediction model was constructed using a generalized linear regression model, random forest model (RFM), and artificial neural network model. Receiver operating characteristic curves and decision curves were used to evaluate the prediction model.

RESULTS

Among the 392 patients, 48 had SLM (12.24%). We obtained fourteen GLCM imaging data for variable screening of SLM prediction models. Inverse difference, mean sum, sum entropy, sum variance, sum of squares, energy, and difference variance were listed as candidate variables, and the prediction efficiency (area under the curve) of the subsequent RFM in the training set and internal validation set was 0.917 [95% confidence interval (95%CI): 0.866-0.968] and 0.09 (95%CI: 0.858-0.960), respectively.

CONCLUSION

A predictive model combining GLCM image features with machine learning can predict SLM in CRC. This model can assist clinicians in making timely and personalized clinical decisions.

Intensive locoregional therapy before liver transplantation for colorectal cancer liver metastasis: A novel pretransplant protocol

We describe a novel pre-liver transplant (LT) approach in colorectal liver metastasis, allowing for improved monitoring of tumor biology and reduction of disease burden before committing a patient to transplantation. Patients undergoing LT for colorectal liver metastasis at Cleveland Clinic were included. The described protocol involves intensive locoregional therapy with systemic chemotherapy, aiming to reach minimal disease burden revealed by positron emission tomography scan and carcinoembryonic Ag. Patients with no detectable disease or irreversible treatment-induced liver injury undergo transplant. Nine patients received liver transplant out of 27 who were evaluated (33.3%). The median follow-up was 700 days. Seven patients (77.8%) received a living donor LT. Five had no detectable disease, and 4 had treatment-induced cirrhosis. Pretransplant management included chemotherapy (n = 9) +/- bevacizumab (n = 6) and/or anti-EGFR (n = 6). The median number of pre-LT cycles of chemotherapy was 16 (range 10-40). Liver-directed therapy included Yttrium-90 (n = 5), ablation (n = 4), resection (n = 4), and hepatic artery infusion pump (n = 3). Three patients recurred after LT. Actuarial 1- and 2-year recurrence-free survival were 75% (n = 6/8) and 60% (n = 3/5). Recurrence occurred in the lungs (n = 1), liver graft (n = 1), and lungs+para-aortic nodes (n = 1). Patients with pre-LT detectable disease had reduced RFS ( p = 0.04). All patients with recurrence had histologically viable tumors in the liver explant. Patients treated in our protocol (n = 16) demonstrated improved survival versus those who were not candidates (n = 11) regardless of transplant status ( p = 0.01). A protocol defined by aggressive pretransplant liver-directed treatment and transplant for patients with the undetectable disease or treatment-induced liver injury may help prevent tumor recurrence.

Determinants of Metastatic Colorectal Cancer With Permanent Liver- Limited Disease

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a complex and genetically heterogeneous disease presenting a specific metastatic pattern, with the liver being the most common site of metastasis. Around 20%-25% of patients with CRC will develop exclusively hepatic metastatic disease throughout their disease history. With its specific characteristics and therapeutic options, liver-limited disease (LLD) should be considered as a specific entity. The identification of these patients is particularly relevant in view of the growing interest in liver transplantation in selected patients with advanced CRC. Identifying why some patients will develop only LLD remains a challenge, mainly because of a lack of a systemic understanding of this complex and interlinked phenomenon given that cancer has traditionally been investigated according to distinct physiological compartments. Recently, multidisciplinary efforts and new diagnostic tools have made it possible to study some of these complex issues in greater depth and may help identify targets and specific treatment strategies to benefit these patients. In this review we analyze the underlying biology and available tools to help clinicians better understand this increasingly common and specific disease.

Importance of resection margin after resection of colorectal liver metastases in the era of modern chemotherapy: population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Resection margin has been associated with overall survival following liver resection for colorectal liver metastasis. The aim of this study was to examine how resection margins of 0.0 mm, 0.1-0.9 mm and ≥1 mm influence overall survival in patients resected for colorectal liver metastasis in a time of modern perioperative chemotherapy and surgery.

METHODS

Using data from the national registries Swedish Colorectal Cancer Registry and Swedish National Quality Registry for Liver, Bile Duct and Gallbladder Cancer, patients that had liver resections for colorectal liver metastasis between 2009 and 2013 were included. In patients with a narrow or unknown surgical margin the original pathological reports were re-reviewed. Factors influencing overall survival were analysed using a Cox proportional hazard model.

RESULTS

A total of 754 patients had a known margin status, of which 133 (17.6%) patients had a resection margin <1 mm. The overall survival in patients with a margin of 0 mm or 0.1-0.9 mm was 42 (95% c.i. 31 to 53) and 48 (95% c.i. 35 to 62) months respectively, compared with 75 (95% c.i. 65 to 85) for patients with ≥1 mm margin, P < 0.001. Margins of 0 mm or 0.1-0.9 mm were associated with poor overall survival in the multivariable analysis, HR 1.413 (95% c.i. 1.030 to 1.939), P = 0.032, and 1.399 (95% c.i. 1.025 to 1.910), P = 0.034, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite modern chemotherapy the resection margin is still an important factor for the survival of patients resected for colorectal liver metastasis, and a margin of ≥1 mm is needed to achieve the best possible outcome.

Pan-European survey on current treatment strategies in patients with upfront resectable colorectal liver metastases

BACKGROUND

There is a lack of consensus on the definition of upfront resectability and use of perioperative systemic therapy for colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). This survey aimed to summarize the current treatment strategies for upfront resectable CRLM throughout Europe.

METHODS

A survey was sent to all members of the European-African Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association to gain insight into the current views on resectability and the use of systemic therapy for upfront resectable CRLM.

RESULTS

The survey was completed by 87 surgeons from 24 countries. The resectability of CRLM is mostly based on the volume of the future liver remnant, while considering tumor biology. Thermal ablation was considered as an acceptable adjunct to resection in parenchymal-sparing CRLM surgery by 77 % of the respondents. A total of 40.2 % of the respondents preferred standard perioperative systemic therapy and 24.1 % preferred standard upfront local treatment.

CONCLUSION

Among the participating European hepato-pancreato-biliary surgeons, there is a high degree of consensus on the definition of CRLM resectability. However, there is much variety in the use of adjunctive thermal ablation. Major variations persist in the use of perioperative systemic therapy in cases of upfront resectable CRLM, stressing the need for further evidence and a consensus.

Debulking Hepatectomy for Colorectal Liver Metastasis Conveys Survival Benefit

(1) Background: Despite advances in surgical technique and systemic chemotherapy, some patients with multifocal, bilobar colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) remain unresectable. These patients may benefit from surgical debulking of liver tumors in combination with chemotherapy compared to chemotherapy alone. (2) Methods: A retrospective study including patients evaluated for curative intent resection of CRLM was performed. Patients were divided into three groups: those who underwent liver resection with recurrence within 6 months (subtotal debulked, SD), those who had the first stage only of a two-stage hepatectomy (partially debulked, PD), and those never debulked (ND). Kaplan-Meier survival curves and log-rank test were performed to assess the median survival of each group. (3) Results: 174 patients underwent liver resection, and 34 patients recurred within 6 months. Of the patients planned for two-stage hepatectomy, 35 underwent the first stage only. Thirty-two patients were never resected. Median survival of the SD, PD, and ND groups was 31 months, 31 months, and 19.5 months, respectively (p = 0.012); (4) Conclusions: Patients who underwent a debulking of CRLM demonstrated a survival benefit compared to patients who did not undergo any surgical resection. This study provides support for the evaluation of intentional debulking versus palliative chemotherapy alone in a randomized trial.

Multimodal Treatment of Metastatic Rectal Cancer in a Young Patient: Case Report and Literature Review

Metastatic colorectal cancer requires a multidisciplinary and individualized approach. Herein, we reported the case of a young woman diagnosed with metastatic rectal cancer who received an individualized multimodal treatment strategy that resulted in a remarkable survival. There were several particular aspects of this case, such as the early onset of the disease, the successful use of conversion therapy, the application of liquid biopsy to guide treatment, and the specific nature of the bone metastasis. To offer more insights for navigating such challenges in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, we have conducted a literature review to find more data related to the particularities of this case. The incidence of early onset colorectal cancer is on the rise. Data suggests that it differs from older-onset colorectal cancer in terms of its pathological, epidemiological, anatomical, metabolic, and biological characteristics. Conversion therapy and surgical intervention provide an opportunity for cure and improve outcomes in metastatic colorectal cancer. It is important to approach each case individually, as every patient with limited liver disease should be considered as a candidate for secondary resection. Moreover, liquid biopsy has an important role in the individualized management of metastatic colorectal cancer patients, as it offers additional information for treatment decisions.

Prognostic factors associated with early recurrence following liver resection for colorectal liver metastases: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the 3rd most common malignancy with the liver being the most common site of metastases. The recurrence rate of colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) after liver resection (LR) is notably high, with an estimated 40% of patients experiencing recurrence within 6 months. In this context, we conducted a meta-analysis to synthesize and evaluate the reliability of evidence pertaining to prognostic factors associated with early recurrence (ER) in CRLM following LR.

METHODS

Systematic searches were conducted from the inception of databases to July 14, 2023, to identify studies reporting prognostic factors associated with ER. The Quality in Prognostic Factor Studies (QUIPS) tool was employed to assess risk-of-bias for included studies. Meta-analysis was then performed on these prognostic factors, summarized by forest plots. The grading of evidence was based on sample size, heterogeneity, and Egger's P value.

RESULTS

The study included 24 investigations, comprising 12705 individuals, during an accrual period that extended from 2007 to 2023. In the evaluation of risk-of-bias, 22 studies were rated as low/moderate risk, while two studies were excluded because of high risk. Most of the studies used a postoperative interval of 6 months to define ER, with 30.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 24.1-36.4%) of the patients experiencing ER following LR. 21 studies were pooled for meta-analysis. High-quality evidence showed that poor differentiation of CRC, larger and bilobar-distributed liver metastases, major hepatectomy, positive surgical margins, and postoperative complications were associated with an elevated risk of ER. Additionally, moderate-quality evidence suggested that elevated levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA199), lymph node metastases (LNM) of CRC, and a higher number of liver metastases were risk factors for ER.

CONCLUSION

This review has the potential to enhance the efficacy of surveillance strategies, refine prognostic assessments, and guide judicious treatment decisions for CRLM patients with high risk of ER. Additionally, it is essential to undertake well-designed prospective investigations to examine additional prognostic factors and develop salvage therapeutic approaches for ER of CRLM.

Recurrence-risk stratification using the Beppu score and selection of perioperative chemotherapy for colorectal liver metastases

The annual postoperative disease-free survival for colorectal liver metastases can be easily estimated by weighting six preoperative clinical parameters (Beppu score). We identified three recurrence-risk stratification groups: the low (≤6 points), moderate (7-10 points), and high-risk (≥11 points). For low-, moderate-, and high-risk patients, hepatectomy alone, hepatectomy with adjuvant chemotherapy, and hepatectomy with preoperative chemotherapy are recommended, respectively. The Beppu score enables the decision on the necessity and timing of perioperative chemotherapy.

Surgical and Interventional Management of Liver Metastasis

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers diagnosed worldwide. While the incidence of colorectal cancer has been declining since the adoption of screening colonoscopy, the findings of liver metastasis are still found in up to 25% of patients at diagnosis. The management of liver metastasis has evolved over the past two to three decades, and survival rates have improved secondary to improved systemic therapy, surgical options, and local therapies. In this article, we aim to review the available surgical and ablative options for management of colorectal liver metastasis, as well as appropriate imaging and patient selection.

Improved survival of patients receiving immunotherapy and chemotherapy following curative-intent resection of colorectal liver metastases

BACKGROUND

Despite significant advancements in the treatment of patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLMs), only a minority will experience long-term survival. This study aimed to determine the effect of chemotherapy (CT) and immunotherapy (IT) compared with that of CT alone on patient survival after surgical resection.

METHODS

Patients undergoing curative-intent liver resection followed by adjuvant systemic therapy for stage IV colon cancer were identified using the National Cancer Database. Patients were stratified into type of therapy (CT alone vs CT + IT) and microsatellite status. Propensity score-weighted analysis was performed through 1:1 matching based on the nearest neighbor method.

RESULTS

Of 9943 patients who underwent resection of CRLMs, 7971 (80%) received systemic adjuvant therapy. Of 7971 patients, 1432 (18%) received a combination of CT and IT. Microsatellite status was not associated with overall survival (OS). Adjuvant CT + IT was associated with increased 3-year OS compared with that of CT alone in both the unmatched cohort (55% vs 48%, respectively; P < .001) and matched cohort (52% vs 48%, respectively; P = .050). On multivariate analysis, older age, positive resection margins, and KRAS mutation were independent predictors of poor survival, whereas the administration of adjuvant CT + IT was an independent predictor of improved survival.

CONCLUSION

IT combined with CT was associated with improved survival compared with that of CT alone after curative-intent resection of CRLMs, regardless of microsatellite instability status. Clinical trials to determine optimal patient selection, IT regimen, and long-term efficacy to improve outcomes of patients with CRLMs are warranted.

Questionnaire survey of Japanese board-certified expert hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgeons and instructors on the surgical indications for hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Recent advancements in systemic therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) necessitate the establishment of resectability criteria for advanced HCC.

METHODS

A questionnaire survey sought to clarify the perspectives of Japanese expert hepatobiliary surgeons regarding surgical indications for HCC. Thirty-one questions were used to determine when surgery is strongly recommended (resectable: R) or not recommended (unresectable: UR).

RESULTS

A total of 351 responses were obtained. While 64.7% of the respondents considered solitary tumors as being R, irrespective of size, opinions diverged on the upper limit of the number of tumors/tumor size for R: (1) up to three nodules with no size limit (27.9%), (2) up to three nodules ≤5 cm in diameter each (21.4%) and (3) up to three nodules ≤3 cm in diameter each (19.4%). Vp1, Vp2, Vp3, and Vp4 were considered as being R by 90.9%, 70.7%, 39.0%, and 8.0% of respondents, respectively. Half of the respondents indicated they would consider resection even for cases with extrahepatic spread under limited conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

The current views of Japanese expert surgeons on the resectability criteria for HCC were clarified for the first time. The findings could serve as a basis for preparing expert consensus statements on the resectability criteria for HCC.

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy for borderline resectable colorectal cancer liver metastases: a single-institution retrospective study

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to extract prognostic factors in patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) for borderline resectable colorectal liver metastasis (BR-CRLM) (tumor size ≥5 cm, number of tumors ≥4, or resectable extrahepatic diseases) and assess validity of this strategy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Since 2010, patients with BR-CRLM were treated with hepatectomy after six cycles of NAC. Prognostic factors of these patients were evaluated using clinicopathological data.

RESULTS

Of 650 patients who underwent initial hepatectomy for CRLM from 2010 to 2018, 246 BR-CRLM cases underwent hepatectomy after NAC (BR-NAC). The 5-year recurrence-free survival rate was 16.7% and the 5-year overall survival rate (5y-OS) was 52.9%. Number of tumors ≥6, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level ≥25 ng/mL, tumor diameter ≥5 cm, and progressive disease (PD) after NAC were identified as independent poor prognostic factors for OS. Patients were divided into four groups according to the number of risk factors, and prognoses of the four groups were well stratified.

CONCLUSION

In patients with BR-NAC, number of tumors ≥6, CEA ≥25 ng/mL, tumor diameter ≥5 cm, and PD after NAC were independent poor prognostic factors. Patients with three or four risk factors showed poor prognosis and may need to switch chemotherapy.

Update to 'A Contemporary Systematic Review on Liver Transplantation for Unresectable Liver Metastasis of Colorectal Cancer'

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related death worldwide, and half of patients present with colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM). Liver transplant (LT) has emerged as a treatment modality for otherwise unresectable CRLM. Since the publication of the Lebeck-Lee systematic review in 2022, additional evidence has come to light supporting LT for CRLM in highly selected patients. This includes reports of >10-year follow-up with over 80% survival rates in low-risk patients. As these updated reports have significantly changed our collective knowledge, this article is intended to serve as an update to the 2022 systematic review to include the most up-to-date evidence on the subject.

Colorectal liver metastases: Correlations of contrast-enhanced ultrasound features with tumor clinicopathological factors and clinical outcomes following conversion therapy

OBJECTIVE

To explore the prognostic impact of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) features for initially unresectable colorectal liver metastases (CLMs) in a clinical setting of conversion therapy.

METHODS

Between March 2015 and November 2020, consecutive patients with CLMs who received conversion treatment were prospectively enrolled. All participants underwent liver CEUS at baseline. The primary endpoint was conversion resection rate (R0 and overall resection). Secondary endpoints were objective response rate (ORR), overall survival (OS), and progression-free survival (PFS).

RESULTS

104 participants who completed conversion treatment were included. CEUS enhancement pattern was correlated with index lesion (size and echogenicity), primary (site, differentiation, perineural invasion, and RAS genotype) and serum (CA19-9 level) characteristics (P = <0.001-0.016). CEUS enhancement pattern was significantly associated with R0 resection rate, ORR, PFS, and OS (P = 0.001-0.049), whereas enhancement degree was associated with PFS and OS (P = 0.043 and 0.045). Multivariate analysis showed that heterogeneous enhancement independently predicted R0 and overall resection (P = 0.028 and 0.024) while rim-like enhancement independently predicted ORR and OS (P = 0.009 and 0.026).

CONCLUSION

CEUS enhancement pattern was significantly associated with tumor characteristics and clinical outcomes following conversion therapy, and thus might be of prognosis impact for initially unresectable CLMs.

Optimizing Treatment Strategy for Oligometastases/Oligo-Recurrence of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer, and nearly half of CRC patients experience metastases. Oligometastatic CRC represents a distinct clinical state characterized by limited metastatic involvement, demonstrating a less aggressive nature and potentially improved survival with multidisciplinary treatment. However, the varied clinical scenarios giving rise to oligometastases necessitate a precise definition, considering primary tumor status and oncological factors, to optimize treatment strategies. This review delineates the concepts of oligometastatic CRC, encompassing oligo-recurrence, where the primary tumor is under control, resulting in a more favorable prognosis. A comprehensive examination of multidisciplinary treatment with local treatments and systemic therapy is provided. The overarching objective in managing oligometastatic CRC is the complete eradication of metastases, offering prospects of a cure. Essential to this management approach are local treatments, with surgical resection serving as the standard of care. Percutaneous ablation and stereotactic body radiotherapy present less invasive alternatives for lesions unsuitable for surgery, demonstrating efficacy in select cases. Perioperative systemic therapy, aiming to control micrometastatic disease and enhance local treatment effectiveness, has shown improvements in progression-free survival through clinical trials. However, the extension of overall survival remains variable. The review emphasizes the need for further prospective trials to establish a cohesive definition and an optimized treatment strategy for oligometastatic CRC.

Colorectal Cancer: Current Updates and Future Perspectives

Colorectal cancer is a frequent neoplasm in western countries, mainly due to dietary and behavioral factors. Its incidence is growing in developing countries for the westernization of foods and lifestyles. An increased incidence rate is observed in patients under 45 years of age. In recent years, the mortality for CRC is decreased, but this trend is slowing. The mortality rate is reducing in those countries where prevention and treatments have been implemented. The survival is increased to over 65%. This trend reflects earlier detection of CRC through routine clinical examinations and screening, more accurate staging through advances in imaging, improvements in surgical techniques, and advances in chemotherapy and radiation. The most important predictor of survival is the stage at diagnosis. The screening programs are able to reduce incidence and mortality rates of CRC. The aim of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of incidence, mortality, and survival rate for CRC.

Prognostic Impact of Tumor Markers (CEA and CA19-9) on Patients with Resectable Colorectal Liver Metastases Stratified by Tumor Number and Size: Potentially Valuable Biologic Markers for Preoperative Treatment

BACKGROUND

Although patients with resectable colorectal liver metastasis (CLM), a population with good prognosis, have been treated with upfront surgery, some patients have had a poor prognosis. This study aimed to investigate biologic prognostic factors in patients with resectable CLMs.

METHODS

This single-center retrospective study enrolled consecutive patients who underwent liver resection for initial CLMs at the Cancer Institute Hospital between 2010 and 2020. The study defined CLMs as resectable (tumor size < 5 cm; < 4 tumors; no extrahepatic metastasis) or borderline resectable (BR). Preoperative chemotherapy was administered to patients with BR CLMs.

RESULTS

During the study period, 309 CLMs were classified as resectable without preoperative chemotherapy and 345 as BR with preoperative chemotherapy. For the 309 patients with resectable CLMs, the independent poor prognostic factors associated with overall survival in the multivariable analysis were high tumor marker levels (CEA ≥ 25 ng/mL and/or CA19-9 ≥ 50 U/mL; (hazard ratio [HR], 2.45; p = 0.0007), no adjuvant chemotherapy (HR, 1.69; p = 0.043), and age of 75 years or older (HR, 2.09; p = 0.012). The 5-year survival rates for the patients with high tumor marker (TM) levels (CEA ≥25 ng/mL and/or CA19-9 ≥50 U/mL) were significantly worse than for those with low TM levels (CEA < 25 ng/mL and CA19-9 < 50 U/mL) (55.3% vs. 81.1%; p <0.0001) and similar to the rate for those with BR CLMs (52.1%; p = 0.864). Postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy had an impact on prognosis only in the high-TM group (HR, 2.65; p = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

High TM levels have a prognostic impact on patients with resectable CLMs stratified by tumor number and size. Perioperative chemotherapy improves long-term outcomes for patients with CLM and high TM levels.

Local Control Following Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy for Liver Oligometastases: Lessons from a Quarter Century

The utilization of stereotactic body radiation therapy for the treatment of liver metastasis has been widely studied and has demonstrated favorable local control outcomes. However, several predictive factors play a crucial role in the efficacy of stereotactic body radiation therapy, such as the number and size (volume) of metastatic liver lesions, the primary tumor site (histology), molecular biomarkers (e.g., KRAS and TP53 mutation), the use of systemic therapy prior to SBRT, the radiation dose, and the use of advanced technology and organ motion management during SBRT. These prognostic factors need to be considered when clinical trials are designed to evaluate the efficacy of SBRT for liver metastases.

New Insights into Macrophage Polarization and its Prognostic Role in Patients with Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastasis

Background

As liver metastasis is the most common cause of mortality in patients with colorectal cancer, studying colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CLM) microenvironment is essential for improved understanding of tumor biology and to identify novel therapeutic targets.

Methods

We used multiplex immunofluorescence platform to study tumor associated macrophage (TAM) polarization and adaptive T cell subtypes in tumor samples from 105 CLM patients (49 without and 56 with preoperative chemotherapy).

Results

CLM exhibited M2 macrophage polarization, and helper T cells were the prevalent adaptive T cell subtype. The density of total, M2 and TGFβ-expressing macrophages, and regulatory T cells was lower in CLM treated with preoperative chemotherapy. CLM with right-sided primary demonstrated enrichment of TGFβ-expressing macrophages, and with left-sided primary had higher densities of helper and cytotoxic T cells. In multivariate analysis, high density of M2 macrophages correlated with longer recurrence-free survival (RFS) in the entire cohort [hazard ratio (HR) 0.425, 95% CI 0.219-0.825, p=0.011) and in patients without preoperative chemotherapy (HR 0.45, 95% CI 0.221-0.932, p=0.032). High pSMAD3-expressing macrophages were associated with shorter RFS in CLM after preoperative chemotherapy.

Conclusions

Our results highlight the significance of a multi-marker approach to define the macrophage subtypes and identify M2 macrophages as a predictor of favorable prognosis in CLM.

Complete Blood Count Alterations Prior to the Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer May Help in the Detection of Synchronous Liver Metastases

Background and Aims: Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents 10% of all cancers worldwide with the highest incidence in developed countries; its incidence is also increasing in middle- and low-income countries. Population screening programs facilitate early diagnosis of the disease. When the diagnosis is carried out in advanced stages, approximately 80% of patients with liver metastases (LM) are considered unresectable at the time of diagnosis. In our study, variations in blood counts prior to CRC diagnosis were analyzed to assess whether they could be useful in identifying smaller, more manageable metastases at earlier stages for more effective treatment. Methods: A study was carried out using complete blood counts (CBCs) from CRC patients, obtained from primary health centers and the La Ribera University Hospital within La Ribera Health Department, Valencian Community, Spain, between July 2012 and September 2020. Data from CRC patients who presented synchronous liver metastasis (CRLM) were compared with those with CRC without LM at diagnosis (CRC patients). Results: Our analysis shows that at least 15 months before CRC diagnosis, a progressive alteration was observed in CBC parameters in both groups. A higher incidence of anemia (p < 0.001) was observed among CRLM patients in the three months prior to CRC diagnosis than in CRC patients showing no LM. Conclusions: A statistically significant deterioration of CBC was observed in patients with advanced-stage CRC and synchronous or early LM (CRLM) in the three months prior to diagnosis. The primary goal of incorporating CBC variations into predictive models is to identify individuals who are at a greater risk of developing metastatic colon cancer, leading to early diagnosis. Our research improves these models by highlighting a more pronounced and rapid decline in hemoglobin levels among CRLM patients. Identification of metastases at an earlier stage when they are smaller, more manageable, and more amenable to treatment may be a valuable tool to prevent their further progression.

Exploring a Novel Technique to Tackle the Shortage of Devices for Hepatic Arterial Infusion Chemotherapy: Early Results of an Alternate Approach for Percutaneous Arterial Port Catheter Placement

Dedicated catheters for hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy were removed from the market. The purpose of this study was to assess the results of a novel approach to overcome the shortage of dedicated catheters for hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy in the treatment of colorectal cancer liver metastases. We retrospectively included patients who underwent a percutaneous placement of a hepatic intra-arterial port catheter in a single tertiary center from February 2021 to June 2022. We examined the patient baseline characteristics, technical features of the modified procedures, technical success rates, complications and oncological outcomes. Fourteen patients (median age: 60 years; q1 = 54; q3 = 70; range: 53-81 years) underwent 15 modified procedures. The main modification of our placement technique consisted of the use of an indwelling 5-Fr Vertebral catheter, on the tip of which we created a two-sided additional lateral hole. The catheter was connected to a pediatric port. The primary success rate was 100%, and the secondary success rate was 93.3%. There were two late major complications, graded IIIa according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. The median liver progression free survival was 6.1 months (q1 = 2.5; q3 = 7.2; range: 1.3-11.6). Our experience suggests that the derived utilization of the devices used routinely in interventional radiology provides an effective solution that can compensate for the shortage of dedicated devices.

Primary Colorectal Tumor Displays Differential Genomic Expression Profiles Associated with Hepatic and Peritoneal Metastases

BACKGROUND

Despite improvements in characterization of CRC heterogeneity, appropriate risk stratification tools are still lacking in clinical practice. This study aimed to elucidate the primary tumor transcriptomic signatures associated with distinct metastatic routes.

METHODS

Primary tumor specimens obtained from CRC patients with either isolated LM (CRC-Liver) or PM (CRC-Peritoneum) were analyzed by transcriptomic mRNA sequencing, gene set enrichment analyses (GSEA) and immunohistochemistry. We further assessed the clinico-pathological associations and prognostic value of our signature in the COAD-TCGA independent cohort.

RESULTS

We identified a significantly different distribution of Consensus Molecular Subtypes between CRC-Liver and CRC-peritoneum groups. A transcriptomic signature based on 61 genes discriminated between liver and peritoneal metastatic routes. GSEA showed a higher expression of immune response and epithelial invasion pathways in CRC-Peritoneum samples and activation of proliferation and metabolic pathways in CRC-Liver samples. The biological relevance of RNA-Seq results was validated by the immunohistochemical expression of three significantly differentially expressed genes (ACE2, CLDN18 and DUSP4) in our signature. In silico analysis of the COAD-TCGA showed that the CRC-Peritoneum signature was associated with negative prognostic factors and poor overall and disease-free survivals.

CONCLUSIONS

CRC primary tumors spreading to the liver and peritoneum display significantly different transcriptomic profiles. The implementation of this signature in clinical practice could contribute to identify new therapeutic targets for stage IV CRC and to define individualized follow-up programs in stage II-III CRC.

Demystifying BRAF Mutation Status in Colorectal Liver Metastases : A Multi-institutional, Collaborative Approach to 6 Open Clinical Questions

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinical implications of BRAF -mutated (mut BRAF ) colorectal liver metastases (CRLMs).

BACKGROUND

The clinical implications of mut BRAF status in CRLMs are largely unknown.

METHODS

Patients undergoing resection for mut BRAF CRLM were identified from prospectively maintained registries of the collaborating institutions. Overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were compared among patients with V600E versus non-V600E mutations, KRAS/BRAF comutation versus mut BRAF alone, microsatellite stability status (Microsatellite Stable (MSS) vs instable (MSI-high)), upfront resectable versus converted tumors, extrahepatic versus liver-limited disease, and intrahepatic recurrence treated with repeat hepatectomy versus nonoperative management.

RESULTS

A total of 240 patients harboring BRAF -mutated tumors were included. BRAF V600E mutation was associated with shorter OS (30.6 vs 144 mo, P =0.004), but not RFS compared with non-V600E mutations. KRAS/BRAF comutation did not affect outcomes. MSS tumors were associated with shorter RFS (9.1 vs 26 mo, P <0.001) but not OS (33.5 vs 41 mo, P =0.3) compared with MSI-high tumors, whereas patients with resected converted disease had slightly worse RFS (8 vs 11 mo, P =0.01) and similar OS (30 vs 40 mo, P =0.4) compared with those with upfront resectable disease. Patients with extrahepatic disease had worse OS compared with those with liver-limited disease (8.8 vs 40 mo, P <0.001). Repeat hepatectomy after intrahepatic recurrence was associated with improved OS compared with nonoperative management (41 vs 18.7 mo, P =0.004). All results continued to hold true in the multivariable OS analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Although surgery may be futile in patients with BRAF -mutated CRLM and concurrent extrahepatic disease, resection of converted disease resulted in encouraging survival in the absence of extrahepatic spread. Importantly, second hepatectomy in select patients with recurrence was associated with improved outcomes. Finally, MSI-high status identifies a better prognostic group, with regard to RFS while patients with non-V600E mutations have excellent prognosis.

Predictive Factors for the Survival Outcomes of Preoperative Chemotherapy in Patients with Resectable and Borderline Resectable Colorectal Cancer with Liver Metastasis

BACKGROUND

Preoperative chemotherapy increases resectability in borderline resectable colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) patients who undergo curative liver surgery. Most clinical risk scores and other predictive factors for survival have been extensively studied in patients who undergo upfront liver surgery. However, predictive factors of CRLM patients who received preoperative chemotherapy remains controversial.

METHODS

CRLM patients who received preoperative systemic therapy followed by curative liver surgery at our institution between 1/2012 and 12/2018 were included. This study aimed to investigate factors that predicted the outcomes of preoperative systemic treatment, optimal dose/duration, and toxicity in patients with CRLM.

OUTCOMES

Ninety-eight patients were eligible for analysis. Most patients received oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy (72.7%), while 15.9% received both oxaliplatin and irinotecan. Biologic agents were administered in 48.9% of patients. Overall, chemotherapy-induced liver injury was observed in 38.5%. The median disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were 8.7 months and 3.6 years, respectively. Baseline, pre-surgery, and increased Fong scores after preoperative chemotherapy were significantly associated with DFS and OS. In multivariate analysis, a high Fong score at baseline (p=0.018) was significantly associated with shorter DFS, whereas male sex (p=0.040) and liver surgery (p=0.044) were related to longer OS.

CONCLUSION

In our study, Fong clinical risk scores, female sex, and liver surgery as a part of liver-directed therapy were independent prognostic factors for survival in CRLM patients who received preoperative chemotherapy. These clinical factors should be considered as an option to guide physicians' decisions in selecting patients with CRLM who may benefit most from curative liver-directed therapy.

Circulating Tumor DNA in Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastasis: Analysis of Patients Receiving Liver Resection and Transplant

PURPOSE

Liver metastases occur in about 50% of colorectal cancer cases and drive patient outcomes. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is emerging as a diagnostic, surveillance, and tumor mutational information tool.

METHODS

Patients with colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CCLM) seen in a multidisciplinary liver tumor clinic from January to August 2022 received ctDNA testing on each visit. ctDNA was obtained using the Guardant360 platform. Tumor mutational burden (TMB) is defined as the number of identified mutations per megabase of genome analyzed.

RESULTS

Fifty-two patients had available ctDNA, with 34 (65%) tested preoperatively and 18 (35%) postoperatively; nine patients had sequential pre- and postoperative testing. The median time to test result was 12 days (IQR, 10-13.5). There were a greater number of somatic mutations identified preoperatively (n = 29 v n = 11) and a greater genomic heterogeneity (P = .0069). The mean TMB score was 12.77 in those without pathologic response to cytotoxic therapy and 6.0 in those with pathologic response (P = .10). All nine patients with sequential testing were positive preoperatively, compared with just three (33.3%) postoperatively (P = .0090). Positive postoperative ctDNA was associated with the increased likelihood of disease recurrence after resection (57%) versus negative ctDNA (0%, P = .0419).

CONCLUSION

Routine ctDNA screening in patients with CCLM is logistically feasible. Liver resection and/or transplant may be associated with clearance of detectable ctDNA and a reduction in TMB or genomic heterogeneity. Persistence of ctDNA alterations postresection appears predictive of disease recurrence. Further studies are necessary to confirm these findings, and longitudinal ctDNA testing is needed to monitor changing tumor biology.

Posthepatectomy but not prehepatectomy chemotherapy was associated with a longer time to recurrence in patients with resectable colorectal liver metastases: Inverse probability of treatment weighting analysis

BACKGROUND

Patients with resectable colorectal liver metastases (CLM) are treated with surgery alone, surgery and posthepatectomy chemotherapy, or prehepatectomy chemotherapy and surgery. The optimal approach in terms of survival is unclear. We compared survival in the three treatment groups using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) analysis.

METHODS

Data from patients undergoing initial CLM resection in 2005-2018 were obtained from a prospectively maintained database. Our group treated resectable CLM with surgery alone but gradually adopted post- and prehepatectomy chemotherapy for patients with CLM number ≥5 after 2015. IPTW analysis was employed to adjust the characteristics of the three groups.

RESULTS

Of the 439 patients meeting the inclusion criteria, 175 underwent surgery alone, 135 underwent surgery and posthepatectomy chemotherapy, and 129 underwent prehepatectomy chemotherapy and surgery. After the IPTW adjustment, the demographic and clinicopathological characteristics were well balanced. The IPTW analysis revealed that the recurrence-free survival was better in patients undergoing surgery and posthepatectomy chemotherapy than in patients undergoing surgery alone (median recurrence-free survival, 1.3 years vs 0.7 years; P = .018). Overall survival was not significantly different between the three treatment approaches.

CONCLUSION

Posthepatectomy but not prehepatectomy chemotherapy prolongs the time to recurrence after curative-intent resection of CLM.

The Management of Oligometastatic Disease in Colorectal Cancer: Present Strategies and Future Perspectives

Oligometastatic disease has been described as an intermediate clinical state between localized cancer and systemically metastasized disease. Recent clinical studies have shown prolonged survival when aggressive locoregional approaches are added to systemic therapies in patients with oligometastases. The aim of this review is to outline the newest options to treat oligometastatic colorectal cancer (CRC), also considering its molecular patterns. We present an overview of the available local treatment strategies, including surgical procedures, stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), thermal ablation, as well as trans-arterial chemoembolization (TACE) and selective internal radiotherapy (SIRT). Moreover, since imaging methods provide crucial information for the early diagnosis and management of oligometastatic CRC, we discuss the role of modern radiologic techniques in selecting patients that are amenable to potentially curative locoregional treatments.

Unravelling oligometastatic disease from the perspective of radiation and medical oncology. Part II: prostate cancer and colorectal cancer

Oligometastatic disease (OMD) defines a status of cancer that is intermediate between localized and widely spread metastatic disease, and can be treated with curative intent. While imaging diagnostic tools have considerably improved in recent years, unidentified micrometastases can still escape from current detection techniques allowing disease to progress. The variety of OMD scenarios are mainly defined by the number of metastases, the biological and molecular tumour profiles, and the timing of the development of metastases. Increasing knowledge has contributed to the earlier and improved detection of OMD, underlining the importance of an early disease control. Based on increasing detection rates of OMD in the current real clinical practice and the lack of standardized evidence-based guidelines to treat this cancer status, a board of experts from the Spanish Societies of Radiation Oncology (SEOR) and Medical Oncology (SEOM) organized a series of sessions to update the current state-of-the-art on OMD from a multidisciplinary perspective, and to discuss how results from clinical studies may translate into promising treatment options. This experts' review series summarizes what is known and what it is pending clarification in the context of OMD in the scenarios of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and Breast Cancer (Part I), and Prostate Cancer and Colorectal Cancer (Part II), aiming to offer specialists a pragmatic framework that might contribute to the improved management of patients.

Multiple colorectal liver metastases resection can offer long-term survival: The concept of a chronic neoplastic disease

BACKGROUND

Resection for colorectal liver metastases has evolved significantly and, currently, there are no limits to the number of resected nodules. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes and prognostic factors after liver resection for patients with ≥4 colorectal liver metastases, emphasizing long-term survival.

METHODS

The study population consisted of 137 patients with ≥4 colorectal liver metastases out of a total of 597 patients with colorectal liver metastases who underwent curative intent liver resection from January 2010 to July 2019 in a single hepatobiliary center.

RESULTS

The probability of overall and disease-free survival at 1, 3, and 5 years was 90.8%, 64.5%, 40.6%, and 37.7%, 19.3%, 18.1%, respectively. In a multivariate analysis for overall survival, the size of the largest metastatic nodule was the only unfavorable factor (P = .001). For disease-free survival, complete pathological response was a favorable factor (P = .04), and the following were negative factors: number of nodules ≥7 (P = .034), radiofrequency ablation during surgery (P = .04), positive primary tumor lymph nodes (P = .034), R1 resection (P = .011), and preoperative carcinoembryonic antigen >20 ng/mL (P = .015). After the first and second years of follow-up, 59 patients (45.3%) and 45 patients (34.6%), respectively, were not receiving chemotherapy. After 5 years of follow-up, 21 (16.1%) multimetastatic patients were chemotherapy-free.

CONCLUSION

A significant number of patients with multiple colorectal liver metastases will present long-term survival and should not be denied surgery. The long-term survival rates, even in the presence of recurrence, characterize a chronic neoplastic disease.

The role of tumour biological factors in technical anatomical resectability assessment of colorectal liver metastases following induction systemic treatment: An analysis of the Dutch CAIRO5 trial

BACKGROUND

Large inter-surgeon variability exists in technical anatomical resectability assessment of colorectal cancer liver-only metastases (CRLM) following induction systemic therapy. We evaluated the role of tumour biological factors in predicting resectability and (early) recurrence after surgery for initially unresectable CRLM.

METHODS

482 patients with initially unresectable CRLM from the phase 3 CAIRO5 trial were selected, with two-monthly resectability assessments by a liver expert panel. If no consensus existed among panel surgeons (i.e. same vote for (un)resectability of CRLM), conclusion was based on majority. The association of tumour biological (sidedness, synchronous CRLM, carcinoembryonic antigen and RAS/BRAF^V600E mutation status) and technical anatomical factors with consensus among panel surgeons, secondary resectability and early recurrence (<6 months) without curative-intent repeat local treatment was analysed by uni- and pre-specified multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

After systemic treatment, 240 (50%) patients received complete local treatment of CRLM of which 75 (31%) patients experienced early recurrence without repeat local treatment. Higher number of CRLM (odds ratio 1.09 [95% confidence interval 1.03-1.15]) and age (odds ratio 1.03 [95% confidence interval 1.00-1.07]) were independently associated with early recurrence without repeat local treatment. In 138 (52%) patients, no consensus among panel surgeons was present prior to local treatment. Postoperative outcomes in patients with and without consensus were comparable.

CONCLUSIONS

Almost a third of patients selected by an expert panel for secondary CRLM surgery following induction systemic treatment experience an early recurrence only amenable to palliative treatment. Number of CRLM and age, but no tumour biological factors are predictive, suggesting that until there are better biomarkers; resectability assessment remains primarily a technical anatomical decision.

Protocol for the CoNoR Study: A prospective multi-step study of the potential added benefit of two novel assessment tools in colorectal liver metastases technical resectability decision-making

INTRODUCTION

Liver resection is the only curative treatment for colorectal liver metastases (CLM). Resectability decision-making is therefore a key determinant of outcomes. Wide variation has been demonstrated in resectability decision-making, despite the existence of criteria. This paper summarises a study protocol to evaluate the potential added value of two novel assessment tools in assessing CLM technical resectability: the Hepatica preoperative MR scan (MR-based volumetry, Couinaud segmentation, liver tissue characteristics and operative planning tool) and the LiMAx test (hepatic functional capacity).

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This study uses a systematic multistep approach, whereby three preparatory workstreams aid the design of the final international case-based scenario survey:Workstream 1: systematic literature review of published resectability criteria.Workstream 2: international hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) interviews.Workstream 3: international HPB questionnaire.Workstream 4: international HPB case-based scenario survey.The primary outcome measures are change in resectability decision-making and change in planned operative strategy, resulting from the novel test results. Secondary outcome measures are variability in CLM resectability decision-making and opinions on the role for novel tools.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study protocol has been approved by a National Health Service Research Ethics Committee and registered with the Health Research Authority. Dissemination will be via international and national conferences. Manuscripts will be published.

REGISTRATION DETAILS

The CoNoR Study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (registration number NCT04270851). The systematic review is registered on the PROSPERO database (registration number CRD42019136748).

Optimizing Adjuvant Therapy after Surgery for Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastases: A Systematic Review

The liver is the most common site of colorectal cancer metastatic spread. Although metastasectomy is the gold standard for fit patients with resectable colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRLMs), their management after surgical treatment remains controversial. The objective of this systematic review was to collate the currently available data of the agents used in the adjuvant setting in order to define the most optimal therapeutic strategy. A systematic review of the literature was conducted by searching PubMed/Medline and Cochrane library databases. We included studies that evaluated the efficacy, the tolerability and the safety profile of various chemotherapeutic agents that are used as adjuvant treatment after surgical resection of CRLMs. The outcomes of interest were regression-free survival (RFS), disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS) and severe toxicities. From 543 initial articles, 29 publications with 7028 patients were finally included. In general, the results of the eligible studies indicated that adjuvant therapy after resection of CRLMs led to improved RFS/DFS rates, but this benefit did not contribute to a statistically significant prolongation of OS. Moreover, the choice of the therapeutic strategy, namely systematic or regional chemotherapy or the combination of both, did not seem to have a differential impact on patient outcomes. However, these results should be interpreted with caution since the majority of the chosen studies are of low or moderate quality. In this context, further high-quality clinical trials conducted on patient sub-populations with modern therapies are required in order to reduce in-study and between-study heterogeneity and determine which patients are expected to derive the maximum benefit from adjuvant therapy after surgery for CRLMs.

Autofluorescence-Raman Spectroscopy for Ex Vivo Mapping Colorectal Liver Metastases and Liver Tissue

INTRODUCTION

Identifying colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) during liver resection could assist in achieving clear surgical margins, which is an important prognostic variable for both disease-free and overall survival. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of auto-fluorescence (AF) and Raman spectroscopy for ex vivo label-free discrimination of CRLMs from normal liver tissue. Secondary aims include exploring options for multimodal AF-Raman integration with respect to diagnosis accuracy and imaging speed on human liver tissue and CRLM.

METHODS

Liver samples were obtained from patients undergoing liver surgery for CRLM who provided informed consent (15 patients were recruited). AF and Raman spectroscopy was performed on CRLM and normal liver tissue samples and then compared to histology.

RESULTS

AF emission spectra demonstrated that the 671 nm and 775/785 nm excitation wavelengths provided the highest contrast, as normal liver tissue elicited on average around eight-fold higher AF intensity compared to CRLM. The use of the 785 nm wavelength had the advantage of enabling Raman spectroscopy measurements from CRLM regions, allowing discrimination of CRLM from regions of normal liver tissue eliciting unusual low AF intensity, preventing misclassification. Proof-of-concept experiments using small pieces of CRLM samples covered by large normal liver tissue demonstrated the feasibility of a dual-modality AF-Raman for detection of positive margins within few minutes.

CONCLUSIONS

AF imaging and Raman spectroscopy can discriminate CRLM from normal liver tissue in an ex vivo setting. These results suggest the potential for developing integrated multimodal AF-Raman imaging techniques for intraoperative assessment of surgical margins.

Hepatic Resection in Patients with Colo-Rectal Liver Metastases: Surgical Outcomes and Prognostic Factors of Single-Center Experience

Introduction: Surgical resection has a fundamental role in increasing the chance of survival in patients with colorectal liver metastases. The guidelines have been modified and expanded in time in order to increase the number of patients that can benefit from this treatment. The aim of this study is to analyze the main prognostic factors related to overall and disease-free survival of a series of consecutive patients undergoing liver resection for colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of patients undergoing liver resection for CRLM between April 2018 and September 2021 was performed. Clinical data and laboratory parameters were evaluated using the log-rank test. OS and DFS were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: A retrospective study on 75 patients who underwent liver resection for CRLM was performed. The OS and DFS at 1 and 3 years were 84.3% and 63.8% for OS, 55.6% and 30.7% for DFS, respectively. From the analysis of the data, the most significant results indicate that: patients with a lower CEA value <25 ng/mL had an OS of 93.6% and 80.1% at 1 and 3 years, with an average of 36.7 months (CI 95% 33.1–40.3); moreover, patients with a value equal to or greater than 25 ng/mL had a 1-year survival equal to 57.4%, with an average of 13.8 months (CI 95% 9.4–18.2) (p < 0.001); adjuvant chemotherapy increases by 3 years the overall survival (OS: 68.6% vs. 49.7%) (p = 0.013); localization of the primary tumor affects OS, with a better prognosis for left colon metastases (OS at 42 months: 85.4% vs. 42.2%) (p value = 0.056); patients with stage T1 or T2 cancer have a better 3 years OS (92.9–100% vs. 49.7–56.3%) (p = 0.696), while the N0 stage results in both higher 3 years OS and DFS than the N + stages (OS: 87.5% vs. 68.5% vs. 24.5%); metachronous metastases have a higher 3 years OS than synchronous ones (80% vs. 47.4%) (p = 0.066); parenchymal sparing resections have a better 3 years DFS than anatomical ones (33.7% vs. 0%) (p = 0.067); a patient with a parenchymal R1 resection has a much worse prognosis than an R0 (3 years OS: 0% vs. 68.7%) (p < 0.001). Conclusions: CEA value of less than 25 ng/mL, localization of the primary tumor in the left colon, primary tumor in stage T1/2 and N0, metachronous presentation, R0 resection, fewer than four metastases, and use of adjuvant chemotherapy are all parameters that in our analysis have shown a correlation with a better prognosis; moreover, the evaluation of the series is in line with the latest evidence in the literature in defining the non-inferiority of minimally invasive and parenchymal sparing treatment compared to the classic laparotomic approach with anatomic resection.

Prediction of hepatic lymph node metastases based on magnetic resonance imaging before and after preoperative chemotherapy in patients with colorectal liver metastases underwent surgical resection

BACKGROUND

Patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) combined with hepatic lymph node (HLN) metastases have a poor prognosis. In this study, we developed and validated a model using clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) parameters to predict HLN status before surgery.

METHODS

A total of 104 CRLM patients undergoing hepatic lymphonodectomy with pathologically confirmed HLN status after preoperative chemotherapy were enrolled in this study. The patients were further divided into a training group (n = 52) and a validation group (n = 52). The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values, including ADC_mean and ADC_min of the largest HLN before and after treatment, were measured. rADC was calculated referring to the target liver metastases, spleen, and psoas major muscle (rADC_-LM, rADC_-SP, rADC_-m). In addition, ADC change rate (Δ% ADC) was quantitatively calculated. A multivariate logistic regression model for predicting HLN status in CRLM patients was constructed using the training group and further tested in the validation group.

RESULTS

In the training cohort, post-ADC_mean (P = 0.018) and the short diameter of the largest lymph node after treatment (P = 0.001) were independent predictors for metastatic HLN in CRLM patients. The model's AUC was 0.859 (95% CI, 0.757-0.961) and 0.767 (95% CI 0.634-0.900) in the training and validation cohorts, respectively. Patients with metastatic HLN showed significantly worse overall survival (p = 0.035) and recurrence-free survival (p = 0.015) than patients with negative HLN.

CONCLUSIONS

The developed model using MRI parameters could accurately predict HLN metastases in CRLM patients and could be used to preoperatively assess the HLN status and facilitate surgical treatment decisions in patients with CRLM.

Clinical value of fluorine-18-fluorodeoxyglucose PET/MRI for liver metastasis in colorectal cancer: a prospective study

PURPOSE

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of liver 18F-FDG PET/MRI in addition to whole-body PET/CT and to compare it with MRI in the detection and clinical management of liver metastasis in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Seventy-eight patients with CRC who underwent whole-body 18F-FDG PET/CT followed by liver PET/MRI were prospectively included. Histopathological confirmation and/or at least 3 months of clinical follow-up after PET/MRI were accepted as gold standard. Lesion and patient-based analyses were performed to evaluate the diagnostics performances of PET/CT, PET/MRI and MRI. In addition, changes of clinical management were evaluated.

RESULTS

On lesion-based analysis, for PET/CT, PET/MRI and MRI; sensitivity (Se): 55.6%, 97.2% and 100%; specificity (Sp): 98.5%, 100% and 80.5%; and accuracy (Acc): 70.7%, 98.2% and 93.1% were calculated, respectively. Se and Acc of PET/MRI and MRI were significantly superior than PET/CT (P < 0.001). Se and Acc of PET/MRI and MRI were comparable; however, Sp of PET/MRI was significantly better than MRI (P < 0.001). On patient-based analysis, Se: 75.6%, 100% and 100%; Sp: 97.3%, 100% and 86.5%; and Acc: 85.9%, 100% and 93.5% were calculated, respectively. Se and Acc of PET/MRI were significantly superior than PET/CT (P < 0.001). Also, Se of MRI was significantly superior than PET/CT (P < 0.001). Se of PET/MRI and MRI were comparable, but Sp and Acc of PET/MRI were significantly better than MRI. The additional information obtained from liver PET/MRI changed treatment strategy in 14/78 (18%) patients compared to PET/CT or alone liver MRI.

CONCLUSION

Diagnostic performances of PET/MRI and MRI for detection of CRC liver metastasis is superior to PET/CT. PET/MRI especially helps in the accurate detection of liver metastases that are suspicious on MRI and has the potential to change the clinical management of especially oligometastatic patients by identifying uncertain liver lesions.

Liver Transplantation for Hepatic Metastases from Colorectal Cancer: Current Knowledge and Open Issues

More than 40% of patients with colorectal cancer present liver metastases (CRLM) during the course of their disease and up to 50% present with unresectable disease. Without surgical interventions, survival for patients treated with systemic therapies alone is dismal. In the past, liver transplantation (LT) for patients with unresectable CRLM failed to show any survival benefit due to poor selection, ineffective chemotherapeutic regimens, unbalanced immunosuppression and high perioperative mortality. Since then and for many years LT for CRLM was abandoned. The turning point occurred in 2013, when the results from the Secondary Cancer (SECA I) pilot study performed at Oslo University were published reporting a 60% 5-year overall survival after LT in patients with unresectable CRLM. These results effectively reignited the interest in LT as a potential therapy for CRLM, and several trials are undergoing. The aims of this article are to give a comprehensive overview of the available evidence on LT for CRLM, discuss the open issues in this rapidly evolving field, and highlight possible ways to address the future of this fascinating therapeutic alternative for selected patients with CRLM.

Multimodality liver directed treatment for colorectal liver metastasis: Array of complementary options can improve outcomes - A single centre experience from India

AIM

Complimentary use of Liver directed therapies (LDTs) with systemic chemotherapy has improved oncologic outcomes in colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM). We analysed institutional results of multimodality management.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of prospectively maintained database of CRLM patients managed with LDT including surgical resection, Ablation, Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) or Transarterial radioembolization (TARE) between November 2011 to March 2020. Management plan was decided in multidisciplinary meeting. Resectable tumours underwent surgical resection or ablation or both in some cases. Borderline resectable or unresectable disease was treated with down staging chemotherapy or TACE/TARE followed by resection or ablation. All patients received adjuvant chemotherapy. Factors influencing survival were analysed.

Results

Out of total 375 patients, surgery alone was done in 191 (50.93%) patients while surgery with other LDT in 26 patients (6.93%). Ablation alone was done in 100 (26.66%) whereas TACE/TARE were done as standalone treatment in 21 (5.6%) and 7 (1.86%) patients respectively. TACE + ablation was done in 28 (7.46%) and TARE + ablation was done in 2(0.53%) patients.5-year Overall Survival(OS) was 49.8% while Event free survival(EFS) was 21.4%. The median OS and EFS for surgical group was significantly better than non-surgical group (78 V/s 39 months; p<0.05 and 20 V/s 15 months p <0.005). The resectable (78 months) group had better median OS as compared to borderline resectable and Unresectable group (39 months and 29 months). Male gender, resectable disease and surgical intervention were associated with improved OS.

Conclusion

Although surgery remains the mainstay of treatment, complementary use of non-surgical LDT with systemic therapy offers possibility of good outcomes in advanced liver limited disease. Our experience highlights the impact of multidisciplinary care in optimizing CRLM treatment.

Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastases: Is an R1 Hepatic Resection Accepted?

Metastatic colorectal cancer is associated with a rather dismal 5-year overall survival. The liver is the most commonly affected organ. Improved 5-year survival rates after successful hepatic resections for metastases confined to the liver have been reported. Certainly, a hepatectomy that results in an incomplete tumor resection, in terms of leaving macroscopic residual tumor in the future liver remnant, is not associated with survival benefits. However, the prognostic implications of a microscopically positive surgical margin or a clear margin of less than 1 mm (R1) on pathology are debatable. Although it has been a field of extensive research, the relevant literature often reports contradictory results. The purpose of the present study was to define, assess the risk factors for, and, ultimately, analyze the effect that an R1 hepatic resection for colorectal cancer liver metastases might have on local recurrence rates and long-term prognosis by reviewing the relevant literature. Achieving an R0 hepatic resection, optimally with more than 1 mm of clear margin, should always be the goal. However, in the era of the aggressive multimodality treatment of liver metastatic colorectal cancer, an R1 resection might be the cost of increasing the pool of patients finally eligible for resection. The majority of literature reports have highlighted the detrimental effect of R1 resections on local recurrence and overall survival. However, there are indeed studies that degraded the prognostic handicap as a consequence of an R1 resection in selected patients and highlighted the presence of RAS mutations, the response to chemotherapy, and, in general, factors that reflect the biology of the disease as important, if not the determinant, prognostic factors. In these patients, the aggressive disease biology seems to outperform the resection margin status as a prognostic factor, and the recorded differences between R1 and R0 resections are equalized. Properly and accurately defining this patient group is a future challenge in the field of the surgical treatment of colorectal cancer liver metastases.

Prediction of survival in patients with colorectal liver metastases- development and validation of a prognostic score model

BACKGROUND

Metastatic spread of colorectal cancer to the liver impacts prognosis. Advances in chemotherapy have resulted in increased resectability rates and thereby improved survival in patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). However, criteria are needed to ensure that patients selected for hepatic resection benefit from the invasive therapy. The study aimed to construct a predictive model for overall survival (OS) in patients with CRLM, based on preoperatively available information.

METHODS

The retrospective cohort study reviewed all patients with CRLM discussed at multidisciplinary team conference at Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden, 2013-2018. Independent prognostic factors for OS were identified, based on which a score model was generated. The model was validated on patients treated for CRLM at Hôpital Universitaire Paul Brousse, Villejuif, France, 2007-2018. Calibration and discrimination methods were used for internal and external validation.

RESULTS

The Swedish development cohort included 1013 patients, the French validation cohort 391 patients. Poor OS was significantly associated with age>60years (hazard ratio (HR) 3.57 (95%CI 2.18-9.94)), number of CRLM (HR 4.59 (2.83-12.20)), diameter of largest CRLM>5 cm (HR 2.59 (1.74-5.03)), right-sided primary tumour (HR 2.98 (2.00-5.80)), extrahepatic disease (HR 4.14 (2.38-15.87)) and non-resectability (HR 0.77 (0.66-0.90)). The C-statistic for prediction of OS was .74, in the development cohort and 0.69 in the validation cohort.

CONCLUSION

The presented predictive score model can adequately predict OS for patients at the initial diagnosis of CRLM. The prognostic model could be of clinical value in the management of all patients with CRLM, by predicting individualized survival and thereby facilitating treatment recommendations.

Survival by Number and Sites of Resections of Recurrence after First Curative Resection of Colorectal Liver Metastases

BACKGROUND

Recurrence after curative hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) is common. We sought to determine if number and sites of resections of recurrence after hepatectomy for CRLM impact survival.

METHODS

The study included patients who underwent resection of recurrence following complete curative-intent resection of CRLM during 1998-2016 at two academic medical centers in Houston, USA, and Rome, Italy. The survival impacts of number and sites of resections of recurrence were evaluated. Patients with synchronous extrahepatic disease at curative CRLM resection were excluded.

RESULTS

Among 2163 patients who underwent curative hepatectomy, 1456 (67.3%) developed a recurrence. Four hundred seventy-eight patients underwent one (322/478; 67.4%) or two or more (156/478; 32.6%) resections of recurrence. The 5-year overall survival (OS) rate was higher in patients with resected than unresected recurrence (70.2% vs. 24.0%; p < 0.001). In patients who underwent only one resection of recurrence, the 5-year OS rate differed by location (lung, 81.6%; liver, 64.3%; other, 54.1%). In patients who underwent two or more resections of recurrence, the 5-year OS rate was similar for liver-only resection (87.5%) and resection of liver and other sites (66.1%) (p = 0.223) and for liver-only resection and other-sites-only resection (80.7%) (p = 0.258); 5-year OS rate by site of first resection of recurrence did not differ between liver (78.5%) and lung (81.8%) (p = 0.502) but was worse for other sites (61.1%) than for lung (p = 0.045).

CONCLUSION

When recurrence after initial CRLM resection is resectable, the ability to undergo resection was associated with improved survival and can be considered as an option regardless of the number of recurrence and resection. Sites of resection of recurrence impact survival and should be considered.