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. 2009 Nov;22(4):225-32.
doi: 10.1055/s-0029-1242462.

Surgical management of colorectal liver metastases

Waleed M Mohammad  1 , Fady K Balaa
Affiliations

Surgical management of colorectal liver metastases

Waleed M Mohammad et al. Clin Colon Rectal Surg. 2009 Nov.

Abstract

Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer with approximately half of the patients developing liver metastases during the course of their disease. Modern multimodal therapies have improved the overall survival. Liver resection remains the most important modality in the treatment of colorectal liver metastases. The evolution of the criteria for resectability has resulted in more patients being offered a hepatectomy. This is further augmented with the utilization of adjuncts to liver resection, including portal vein embolization and local ablative techniques. Two-stage hepatectomy is also being used to increase resectability. Overall survival is improved by the deployment of new chemotherapeutic agents and the use of combination chemotherapy. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is a promising development in the treatment of colorectal liver metastases. Patients with colorectal liver metastases can achieve long-term survival. A multidisciplinary approach is essential in the management of these patients.

Keywords: Liver; chemotherapy; colorectal liver metastases; hepatectomy.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Intraoperative ultrasound scan shows the proximity of a colorectal metastasis (black arrowhead) to the middle hepatic vein (white arrowhead).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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