Surgical management of disappearing colorectal liver metastases

A Systematic Review of Disappearing Colorectal Liver Metastases: Resection or No Resection?

Background: Colorectal cancer is the second most common type of cancer and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Approximately 15% of the patients with colorectal cancer will already have liver metastases (CRLMs) at diagnosis. Luckily, the advances in chemotherapy regimens during the past few decades have led to increased rates of disease regression that could even render an originally unresectable disease resectable. In certain patients with CRLMs, the hepatic lesions are missing on preoperative imaging after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. These patients can undergo surgery with or without resection of the sites of the disappearing liver metastases (DLMs). In this systematic review, we assess the recurrence rate of the DLMs that were left unresected as well as the complete pathologic response of those resected. Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed for studies including patients with CRLMs who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy and had DLMs in preoperative imaging. Two independent reviewers completed the search according to the PRISMA checklist. Results: Three hundred and twenty-six patients with 1134 DLMs were included in our review. A total of 47 out of 480 DLMs (72.29%) that were removed had viable tumor cells in postoperative histology. One hundred and forty-five tumors could not be identified intraoperatively and were removed based on previous imaging, with thirty (20.69%) of them presenting viable cancer cells. Four hundred and sixty-five lesions could not be identified and were left in place. Of them, 152 (32.69%) developed local recurrence within 5 years. Of note, 34 DLMs could not be categorized as viable or non-viable tumors. Finally, DLMs that were identifiable intraoperatively had a higher possibility of viable tumors compared to non-identifiable ones (72.29% vs. 20.69%, respectively). Conclusions: Disappearing liver metastases that are left unresected have an increased possibility of recurrence. Patients receiving neoadjuvant treatment for CRLMs may have better survival chances after resecting all the DLM sites, either identifiable intraoperatively or not.

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.

Multidisciplinary discussion and management of synchronous colorectal liver metastases: A single center study in China

BACKGROUND

The multidisciplinary team (MDT) has been carried out in many large hospitals now. However, given the costs of time and money and with little strong evidence of MDT effectiveness being reported, critiques of MDTs persist.

AIM

To evaluate the effects of MDTs on patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases and share our opinion on management of synchronous colorectal liver metastases.

METHODS

In this study we collected clinical data of patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases from February 2014 to February 2017 in the Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital and subsequently divided them into an MDT+ group and an MDT- group. In total, 93 patients in MDT+ group and 169 patients in MDT- group were included totally.

RESULTS

Statistical increases in the rate of chest computed tomography examination (P = 0.001), abdomen magnetic resonance imaging examination (P = 0.000), and preoperative image staging (P = 0.0000) were observed in patients in MDT+ group. Additionally, the proportion of patients receiving chemotherapy (P = 0.019) and curative resection (P = 0.042) was also higher in MDT+ group. Multivariable analysis showed that the population of patients assessed by MDT meetings had higher 1-year [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.608, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.398-0.931, P = 0.022] and 5-year (HR = 0.694, 95%CI: 0.515-0.937, P = 0.017) overall survival.

CONCLUSION

These results proved that MDT management did bring patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases more opportunities for comprehensive examination and treatment, resulting in better outcomes.

Changes in Oncological Surgical Principles Driven by Advances in Preoperative Treatments

From a surgical point of view, the development of preoperative oncological treatment has had a profound effect on the surgical treatment trends of cancer as well as on the outcomes of cancer patients. Consequently, these changes have challenged formerly entrenched oncological surgical principles. In our short report, we aimed to summarize the main shifts regarding the surgical principles of cancer treatment due to the development of preoperative oncological therapy in recent years. As a result of successful preoperative treatment, surgeons may perform less radical surgeries, the required free resection margin has been narrowed down to a few millimeters in dimension and preoperative treatment is justified in both definitely resectable tumors and in oligometastatic tumors as well. For prognosis assessment, the post-preoperative oncological treatment stage is now considered decisive, rather than the pretreatment stage as previously thought. Other changes include the introduction of the watch and wait strategy and the reverse order of treatment of the primary tumor and metastasis. Observing the continuously improving outcomes of cancer patients and the developments in oncological treatment modalities, a further expansion of the indication of preoperative treatments is to be expected.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of MRI, CE-CT and 18F-FDG PET/CT for detecting colorectal liver metastases eligible for hepatic resection

OBJECTIVES

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a serious challenge for the health system. In 2022 CRC represented 8% of cancer diagnoses in the United States. 30% of patients already show metastases at the initial tumor staging. The majority of these metastases are sited in the liver. According to their extension and the status of the tumor colorectal liver metastases can be treated in several ways, with hepatic resection being the gold-standard. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CE-CT), positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used for evaluation of resectability of these liver metastases. The aim of this study is to assess the most economic imaging modality for detecting liver metastases eligible for hepatic resection by analyzing their cost-effectiveness.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In our study, a Markov state transition model was built to calculate the quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and overall costs for each diagnostic strategy in accord with the stated input values obtained from scientific research. Further, probabilistic sensitivity analyses by means of Monte Carlo simulations were performed to consider possible model uncertainties. For evaluation of the cost-effectiveness on an economic threshold, the Willingness-to-pay (WTP) was set at $ 100,000. The applied values and the calculated results are based on the U.S. healthcare system.

RESULTS

CE-CT led to overall costs of $ 42,874.02 and 8.47 QALYs, whereas MRI led to $ 40,863.65 and 8.50 QALYs. PET/CT resulted in overall costs of $ 43,216.74 and 8.48 QALYs. Therefore, MRI was determined to be the dominant strategy in the model. According to the performed sensitivity analyses, MRI remained cost-effective over a wide range of WTPs.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, according to our analysis, MRI is the dominant strategy for detecting hepatic metastases eligible for hepatic resection in colorectal cancer.

The dilemma of the disappearing colorectal liver metastases: defining international trends in management

OBJECTIVE

This survey sought to appraise the degree of consistency in the management of disappeared colorectal liver metastases (dCRLM) among liver surgeons in different countries.

BACKGROUND

Colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) account for half of the deaths secondary to colorectal cancer. Due to the high utilization of chemotherapy before surgery, some or all CRLM can disappear (dCRLM) but management of dCRLMs remains unclear.

METHODS

Seven simulated scenarios of dCRLM were presented to experienced liver surgeons using an online platform. Treatment decisions were submitted and analysed using the multi-rater kappa method. The effect of the experience, complexity of scenarios, and location and number of dCRLM on treatment decision were analysed.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven liver surgeons from 25 countries completed the survey. There was no agreement about the therapeutic strategies of dCRLM in all scenarios (kappa 0.12, IQR 0.20-0.32). In scenarios with lower difficulty scores, surgeons tended to offer surgical resection for dCRLM alongside the visible CRLM (vCRLM), however, with poor agreement (kappa 0.32, IQR 0.19-0.51). No agreement was seen for clinical scenario in which all CRLM lesions disappeared (kappa 0.20).

CONCLUSION

There are clear inconsistencies in the management decisions of dCRLM. Better evidence is required to define optimal management strategies.

The Influence of Radiological “Disappearing Lesions” on the Efficacy and Prognosis of Patients with Colorectal Liver Metastases Undergoing Conversion Therapy

Purpose

The purpose of the current study was to analyze the influence of radiological “disappearing liver metastasis” (DLM) on the efficacy and prognosis of patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) undergoing conversion therapy.

Methods

Patients with CRLM by the multidisciplinary team (MDT) of the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University were retrospectively enrolled from January 2014 to January 2021. The relationship between the occurrence and recurrence of DLM and different clinical factors was analyzed.

Results

Thirty-five of the 113 patients (31.0%) with initially unresectable CRLM developed DLM, and of the 361 lesions, 177 disappeared (49.0%). Within 6 months, 6-12 months, and 12-24 months groups, the recurrence rate was 3.4%, 16.8%, and 34.8%, but there is no recurrence in after 24 months group. There was a statistical difference between chemotherapy alone and chemotherapy combined with the targeted therapy group on the occurrence of DLM (58.3% vs. 37.1%, P < 0.001). There were significant differences between <5 mm group and >10 mm group on occurrence of DLM（76.7% vs. 30.4%, P < 0.001) and between 5-10 mm group and >10 mm group also (70.0% vs. 30.4%, P < 0.001). Through univariate and multivariate analyses, it was concluded that age (P = 0.026, 95%CI = 3.690) and treatment regimens (P = 0.033, 95%CI = 2.703) had a significant influence on the progression-free survival (PFS) time of DLM.

Conclusion

Younger patients, who use chemotherapy alone to achieve a therapeutic effect, might have better survival benefits when the lesions do not progress within 2 years after the appearance of DLMs.

Imaging of Colorectal Liver Metastasis

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers in the world. The most important determinant of survival and prognosis is the stage and presence of metastasis. The liver is the most common location for CRC metastasis. The only curative treatment for CRC liver metastasis (CRLM) is resection; however, many patients are ineligible for surgical resection of CRLM. Locoregional treatments such as ablation and intra-arterial therapy are also available for patients with CRLM. Assessment of response after chemotherapy is challenging due to anatomical and functional changes. Antiangiogenic agents such as bevacizumab that are used in the treatment of CRLM may show atypical patterns of response on imaging. It is vital to distinguish patterns of response in addition to toxicities to various treatments. Imaging plays a critical role in evaluating the characteristics of CRLM and the approach to treatment. CT is the modality of choice in the diagnosis and management of CRLM. MRI is best used for indeterminate lesions and to assess response to intra-arterial therapy. PET-CT is often utilized to detect extrahepatic metastasis. State-of-the-art imaging is critical to characterize patterns of response to various treatments. We herein review the imaging characteristics of CRLM with an emphasis on imaging changes following the most common CRLM treatments.

Missing colorectal liver metastases: the surgical challenge

BACKGROUND

New chemotherapy schemes have allowed for a better radiological response of unresectable colorectal liver metastases, leading to an interesting scenario known as a complete radiological response. The aim of this study was to review the current management of missing liver metastases (MLM) from the liver surgeon's point of view.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted on all publications of PubMed and Embase between 2003 and 2018. Meta-analysis was performed on MLM resected/unresected. Residual tumor or regrowth and relapse-free survival were used as evaluation indices.

RESULTS

After literature search, 18 original articles were included for analysis. The predictive factors for MLM are type and duration of chemotherapy and size and number of lesions. Magnetic resonance is the most sensitive preoperative technique. Regarding clinical management, liver surgery is deemed the fundamental pillar in the therapeutic strategy of these patients. Meta-analysis due to data heterogeneity was inconclusive.

CONCLUSIONS

Depending on the clinical context, MLM monitoring appears to be a valid therapeutic alternative. Nevertheless, prospective randomized clinical studies are needed.

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy for colorectal liver metastases: A contemporary review of the literature

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and up to 50% of patients with CRC develop colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). For these patients, surgical resection remains the only opportunity for cure and long-term survival. Over the past few decades, outcomes of patients with metastatic CRC have improved significantly due to advances in systemic therapy, as well as improvements in operative technique and perioperative care. Chemotherapy in the modern era of oxaliplatin- and irinotecan-containing regimens has been augmented by the introduction of targeted biologics and immunotherapeutic agents. The increasing efficacy of contemporary systemic therapies has led to an expansion in the proportion of patients eligible for curative-intent surgery. Consequently, the use of neoadjuvant strategies is becoming progressively more established. For patients with CRLM, the primary advantage of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NCT) is the potential to down-stage metastatic disease in order to facilitate hepatic resection. On the other hand, the routine use of NCT for patients with resectable metastases remains controversial, especially given the potential risk of inducing chemotherapy-associated liver injury prior to hepatectomy. Current guidelines recommend upfront surgery in patients with initially resectable disease and low operative risk, reserving NCT for patients with borderline resectable or unresectable disease and high operative risk. Patients undergoing NCT require close monitoring for tumor response and conversion of CRLM to resectability. In light of the growing number of treatment options available to patients with metastatic CRC, it is generally agreed that these patients are best served at tertiary centers with an expert multidisciplinary team.

Surgical treatment of colorectal liver metastasis

Liver metastasis is the most common form of distant metastasis in colorectal cancer and is a key factor for prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer. Surgery may be the only way to cure colorectal liver metastases. This paper mainly summarizes the latest progress in surgical treatment of colorectal liver metastases, including how to increase resection rate of liver metastases with neoadjuvant therapy or staged hepatectomy, the effect of surgical margin on the prognosis of patients, the timing of surgery in patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastasis, the impact of laparoscopic hepatectomy of liver metastases, the application of liver transplantation in patients with colorectal liver metastases, etc, with an aim to help develop an optimal treatment for patients with colorectal liver metastases through combination of surgical innovations with individualized treatment, thereby improving patients' disease-free survival and overall survival.

What is the optimal number of neoadjuvant chemotherapy cycles for resectable colorectal liver oligometastases?

BACKGROUND

The optimal number of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) cycles for resectable colorectal liver oligometastases (CLOM) remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the optimal number of NAC cycles.

METHODS

One hundred twenty-nine consecutive patients were included in this study. X-tile analysis was implemented to investigate the optimal cut-off point for NAC cycles. Propensity score matching was performed to reduce selection bias. Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox risk regression models were used to analyse progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

The optimal cut-off point for NAC cycles was 5. There were no significant differences in R0 resection, pathological response or postoperative complications between the groups with a low number of NAC cycles group (≤5 cycles, n=80) and high number of NAC cycles (>5 cycles, n=49). Patients with a high number of NAC cycles were more likely to have NAC toxicity than those with a low number of cycles (87.8% vs. 65.0%, P=0.004). Multivariate analysis revealed that >5 NAC cycles was an independent predictor of reduced PFS (HR =1.808, 95% CI: 1.205-2.712, P=0.004) and reduced OS (HR =1.723, 95% CI: 1.041-2.851, P=0.034). In the oxaliplatin-based regimen group, patients with a low number of NAC cycles had a better PFS (P<0.001, mPFS: 14.7 vs. 5.4 months) and better OS (P=0.018, mOS: 57.7 months vs. 41.0 months) than those with a high number of cycles. After 1:1 propensity matching (34 cases vs. 34 cases), multivariate analysis revealed that >5 NAC cycles was an independent predictor of reduced PFS (HR =2.265, 95% CI: 1.281-4.007, P=0.005) and reduced OS (HR =2.813, 95% CI: 1.359-5.822, P=0.005). In the oxaliplatin-based regimen group, patients with a low number of NAC cycles had better PFS (P<0.001, mPFS: 17.5 vs. 5.6 months) and better OS (P=0.008, mOS: 59.0 vs. 31.8 months) than those with a high number of cycles.

CONCLUSIONS

Fewer than 5 NAC cycles was optimal for biologically resectable CLOM patients. Giving more than 5 NAC cycles was unnecessary because a higher number of NAC cycles has more unfavourable survival and higher NAC toxicities, while leading to similar R0 resection rates and pathological responses.

Disappearing liver metastases: A systematic review of the current evidence

Advances in systemic chemotherapy have resulted in a significant increase in the reported response rates of colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) over time. Although radiologic response is usually prognostic of favorable outcomes, complete shrinkage of CRLM after chemotherapy, namely "disappearing liver metastases" (DLMs) poses significant therapeutic dilemmas. A systematic review of the literature was conducted to evaluate the existing evidence on the imaging and management of patients with DLMs using the PubMed (Medline), Embase and Cochrane library through December 21st, 2018. The following algorithm was used: "(disappearing OR vanishing OR missing OR (residual tiny)) AND ((liver OR hepatic) AND (metastasis OR metastases OR metastatic OR secondary))." From the 225 records retrieved, 15 studies were finally deemed eligible. A total of 479 patients with DLMs with a median age of 59.5 years (range, 30-83) were identified. Median number of DLM per patient ranged from 1 to 8.8. Median size of LMs prior to chemotherapy was 1.07 cm (range 0.3-3.5). The systemic treatment used to achieve DLMs included systemic chemotherapy alone (only 2 studies) or in combination with targeted agents (11 studies). The median number of chemotherapy cycles in the included studies was 7.8 (range 6-12). Identified factors predisposing to the development of DLM were small size (<2 cm), increased number of treatment cycles, oxaliplatin-based therapy, increased number of CRLM (≥3) and synchronous CRLM. Baseline and preoperative MRI with iv contrast showed the highest sensitivity for DLM detection. Fiducial placement facilitated pre- and intra-operative identification of DLM. Although resection of DLM decreased the local recurrence risk, there was no clearly demonstrated survival benefit after resecting all sites of disappearing lesions. Future randomized clinical trials are highly encouraged to provide strict, evidence-based recommendations for the treatment of patients with DLM.

Colorectal liver metastases: An update on multidisciplinary approach

Liver metastasis is the commonest form of distant metastasis in colorectal cancer. Selection criteria for surgery and liver-directed therapies have recently been extended. However, resectability remains poorly defined. Tumour biology is increasingly recognized as an important prognostic factor; hence molecular profiling has a growing role in risk stratification and management planning. Surgical resection is the only treatment modality for curative intent. The most appropriate surgical approach is yet to be established. The primary cancer and the hepatic metastasis can be removed simultaneously or in a two-step approach; these two strategies have comparable long-term outcomes. For patients with a limited future liver remnant, portal vein embolization, combined ablation and resection, and associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy have been advocated, and each has their pros and cons. The role of neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy is still debated. Targeted biological agents and loco-regional therapies (thermal ablation, intra-arterial chemo- or radio-embolization, and stereotactic radiotherapy) further improve the already favourable results. The recent debate about offering liver transplantation to highly selected patients needs validation from large clinical trials. Evidence-based protocols are missing, and therefore optimal management of hepatic metastasis should be personalized and determined by a multi-disciplinary team.

Evaluation of a strategy using pretherapeutic fiducial marker placement to avoid missing liver metastases

Background

Hepatic surgery is appropriate for selected patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). Advances in chemotherapy have led to modification of management, particularly when metastases disappear. Treatment should address all initial CRLM sites based on pretherapeutic cross-sectional imaging. This study aimed to evaluate pretherapeutic fiducial marker placement to optimize CRLM treatment.

Methods

This pilot investigation included patients with CRLM who were considered for potentially curative treatment between 2009 and 2016. According to a multidisciplinary team decision, lesions smaller than 25 mm in diameter that were more than 10 mm deep in the hepatic parenchyma and located outside the field of a planned resection were marked. Complication rates and clinicopathological data were analysed.

Results

Some 76 metastases were marked in 43 patients among 217 patients with CRLM treated with curative intent. Of these, 23 marked CRLM (30 per cent), with a mean(s.d.) size of 11·0(3·4) mm, disappeared with preoperative chemotherapy. There were four complications associated with marking: two intrahepatic haematomas, one fiducial migration and one misplacement. After a median follow-up of 47·7 (range 18·1-144·9) months, no needle-track seeding was noted. Of four disappearing CRLM that were marked and resected, two presented with persistent active disease. Other missing lesions were treated with thermoablation.

Conclusion

Pretherapeutic fiducial marker placement appears useful for the curative management of CRLM.

Surgical Treatment of Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

Surgical treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer offers a chance for cure or prolonged survival, particularly for those with more favorable prognostic factors and limited tumor burden. The treatment plan requires multidisciplinary evaluation because multiple therapy options exist. Advanced surgical techniques, adjuncts to resection, and modern chemotherapy all contribute to best outcomes for patients with hepatic metastases. Although cure is less common for patients with metastasis to lung or peritoneum, surgical resection for the former and cytoreduction and intraperitoneal chemotherapy for the latter may help to achieve cancer control in selected patients.

Hepatic Metastasis from Colorectal Cancer

The liver is the most common site of metastasis in patients with colorectal cancer due to its anatomical situation regarding its portal circulation. About 14 to 18% of patients with colorectal cancer present metastasis at the first medical consultation, and 10 to 25% at the time of the resection of the primary colorectal cancer. The incidence is higher (35%) when a computed tomography (CT) scan is used.

In the last decades, a significant increase in the life expectancy of patients with colorectal cancer has been achieved with different diagnostic and treatment programs. Despite these improvements, the presence of metastasis, disease recurrence, and advanced local tumors continue to remain poor prognostic factors.

Median survival without treatment is <8 months from the moment of its presentation, and a survival rate at 5 years of 11% is the best prognosis for those who present with local metastasis. Even in patients with limited metastatic disease, 5-year survival is exceptional. Patients with hepatic metastasis of colorectal cancer have a median survival of 5 to 20 months with no treatment. Approximately 20 to 30% of patients with colorectal metastasis have disease confined to the liver, and this can be managed with surgery. Modern surgical strategies at the main hepatobiliary centers have proved that hepatectomy of 70% of the liver can be performed, with a mortality rate of <5%.

It is very important to have knowledge of predisposing factors, diagnostic methods, and treatment of hepatic metastasis. However, the establishment of newer, efficient, preventive screening programs for early diagnosis and adequate treatment is vital.

How to cite this article: Valderrama-Treviño AI, Barrera-Mera B, Ceballos-Villalva JC, Montalvo-Javé EE. Hepatic Metastasis from Colorectal Cancer. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2017;7(2):166-175.

Predictive factors for bile leakage after hepatectomy for hepatic tumors: a retrospective multicenter study with 631 cases at Yokohama Clinical Oncology Group (YCOG)

BACKGROUND

International Study Group of Liver Surgery (ISGLS) proposed the standardized definition for bile leakage (BL) after hepatectomy (Hx) at 2011 to precisely perceive incidence and predictive factors of this critical condition.

METHODS

We conducted a multicenter retrospective study using the ISGLS definition of BL after Hx.

RESULTS

Perioperative data regarding 631 patients undergoing elective Hx for hepatic tumors without biliary reconstruction performed between January 2009 and December 2011 were analyzed. BL was observed in 30 patients (4.8%). (Grade A, 8 (1.3%); B, 21(3.3%); C, 1 (0.2%)). Five independent predictors (diagnosis of liver metastases, prolonged operation, high risk procedures defined as Hx with broad exposure of the hilar Glissonean sheath, low platelet count and high serum total bilirubin on postoperative day 1) for grade B/C BL were elucidated by the multivariate analysis. When the study cohorts were divided into groups by number of accompanying these predictors, the more the accompanying independent predictors, the higher the incidence of BL. Notably, incidence of BL exceeded 40% in patients with four or more of these predictors.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk stratification for BL after Hx can be achievable using independent predictors clarified in this study. However, proper management for high risk patients remains to be elucidated.

Multidisciplinary approach of colorectal cancer liver metastases

Large bowel cancer is a worldwide public health challenge. More than one third of patients present an advanced stage of disease at diagnosis and the liver is the most common site of metastases. Selection criteria for early diagnosis, chemotherapy and surgery have been recently expanded. The definition of resectability remains unclear. The presence of metastases is the most significant prognostic factor. For this reason the surgical resection of hepatic metastases is the leading treatment. The most appropriate resection approach remains to be defined. The two step and simultaneous resection processes of both primary and metastases have comparable survival long-term outcomes. The advent of targeted biological chemotherapeutic agents and the development of loco-regional therapies (chemoembolization, thermal ablation, arterial infusion chemotherapy) contribute to extend favorable results. Standardized evidence-based protocols are missing, hence optimal management of hepatic metastases should be single patient tailored and decided by a multidisciplinary team. This article reviews the outcomes of resection, systemic and loco-regional therapies of liver metastases originating from large bowel cancer.

Hepatic resection for primary and secondary liver malignancies

Liver surgery has become the standard treatment of primary liver cancer and liver metastases from colorectal cancer. Also, patients with non-colorectal liver metastases are increasingly offered surgery due to the low morbidity and excellent long-term results. The evolution of two-stage procedures helps to increase resectability. Also, laparoscopic and robotic liver surgery are constantly developed.

Oligometastatic Disease in Colorectal Cancer - How to Proceed?

BACKGROUND

Oligometastatic disease in colorectal cancer may affect the liver, lung, and peritoneum. This review mainly focuses on colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) and highlights recommendations and therapeutic strategies drawn from the current literature and consensus conferences. The following data address a paradigm shift in surgical approaches to CRLM, pushing the limits of multimodal treatment concepts.

METHODS

A systematic review of the relevant literature on multimodal treatment strategies for synchronous and metachronous CRLM is presented.

RESULTS

The choice of treatment strategy depends on the clinical scenario; however, perioperative chemotherapy and the liver-first concept in synchronous CRLM are favored with subsequent partial extended liver resection with or without various augmentation techniques for liver surgery.

CONCLUSION

Surgical strategies should be strongly defined with regard to an adequate liver remnant. All patients with synchronous CRLM should be evaluated by a multidisciplinary team.

Patient selection for the surgical treatment of resectable colorectal liver metastases

Advances in surgery and chemotherapy regimens have increased the long-term survival of patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). Although liver resection remains an essential part of any curative strategy for resectable CRLM, chemotherapy regimens have also improved the long-term outcomes. However, the optimal timing for chemotherapy regimens remains unclear. Thus, this review addressed key points to aid the decision-making process regarding the timing of chemotherapy and surgery for patients with resectable CRLM. J. Surg. Oncol. 2017;115:213-220. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Beyond Histologic Staging: Emerging Imaging Strategies in Colorectal Cancer with Special Focus on Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Imaging plays an increasingly important role in the staging and management of colorectal cancer. In recent years, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has supplanted transrectal ultrasound as the preferred modality for the locoregional staging of rectal cancer. Furthermore, the advent of both diffusion-weighted imaging and hepatobiliary contrast agents has significantly enhanced the ability of MRI to detect colorectal liver metastases. In clinical practice, MRI routinely provides prognostic information, helps to guide surgical strategy, and determines the need for neoadjuvant therapies related to both the primary tumor and metastatic disease. Expanding on these roles for MRI, positron emission tomography (PET)/MRI is the newest clinical hybrid imaging modality and combines the metabolic information of PET with the high soft tissue contrast of MRI. The addition of PET/MRI to the clinical staging armamentarium has the potential to provide comprehensive state-of-the-art colorectal cancer staging in a single examination.

Does response rate of chemotherapy with molecular target agents correlate with the conversion rate and survival in patients with unresectable colorectal liver metastases?: A systematic review

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate whether the response rate of chemotherapy with molecular target agents correlates with the conversion rate, R0 resection rate, and survival in patients with initially unresectable colorectal liver metastases (CRLM).

METHODS

We reviewed the literature of prospective, controlled trials of systemic chemotherapy for patients with unresectable liver-only CRLM, including resectable extrahepatic metastases. Pearson's correlation coefficients were calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 26 patient groups from 18 studies were reviewed. The response rate was significantly correlated with the conversion rate (r = 0.66) and R0 resection rate (r = 0.43) in overall patients. In subgroup analysis, only the conversion rate in patients with chemotherapy only (r = 0.75) and anti-EGFR therapy (r = 0.78) were significantly strongly correlated with the response rate. A non-significant strong trend toward correlation between response and conversion rates was observed in patients with bevacizumab (r = 0.73, p = 0.10). The regression line in the scatter plot of patients using bevacizumab showed a less steep slope. This indicated that conversion rates were relatively less affected by response rates under anti-VEGF therapy compared with the other patient groups. The response rate in chemotherapy-only patients was significantly correlated with median progression-free survival (r = 0.61) and overall survival (r = 0.66).

CONCLUSIONS

Chemotherapy without molecular target agents and with anti-EGFR agents shows similar results of correlation between response and conversion/R0 resection rates. Under anti-VEGF therapy, conversion would be expected, even with a relatively lower response rate.

Missing metastases as a model to challenge current therapeutic algorithms in colorectal liver metastases

In oncosurgical approach to colorectal liver metastases, surgery remains considered as the only potentially curative option, while chemotherapy alone represents a strictly palliative treatment. However, missing metastases, defined as metastases disappearing after chemotherapy, represent a unique model to evaluate the curative potential of chemotherapy and to challenge current therapeutic algorithms. We reviewed recent series on missing colorectal liver metastases to evaluate incidence of this phenomenon, predictive factors and rates of cure defined by complete pathologic response in resected missing metastases and sustained clinical response when they were left unresected. According to the progresses in the efficacy of chemotherapeutic regimen, the incidence of missing liver metastases regularly increases these last years. Main predictive factors are small tumor size, low marker level, duration of chemotherapy, and use of intra-arterial chemotherapy. Initial series showed low rates of complete pathologic response in resected missing metastases and high recurrence rates when unresected. However, recent reports describe complete pathologic responses and sustained clinical responses reaching 50%, suggesting that chemotherapy could be curative in some cases. Accordingly, in case of missing colorectal liver metastases, the classical recommendation to resect initial tumor sites might have become partially obsolete. Furthermore, the curative effect of chemotherapy in selected cases could lead to a change of paradigm in patients with unresectable liver-only metastases, using intensive first-line chemotherapy to intentionally induce missing metastases, followed by adjuvant surgery on remnant chemoresistant tumors and close surveillance of initial sites that have been left unresected.

Colorectal liver metastases: disappearing lesions in the era of Eovist hepatobiliary magnetic resonance imaging

BACKGROUND

Hepatobiliary contrast enhanced MRI is known to be the most sensitive imaging modality for detection of colorectal hepatic metastasis. To date no study has investigated the rate of disappearing lesions with gadoxetic acid MR (Eovist/Primovist), or characterized the pathologic response of lesions which disappear on gadoxetic acid MR.

METHODS

Retrospective review of hepatic resections for colorectal metastases between 01/2008 and 01/2014 was performed to evaluated the rate of disappearance of lesions on gadoxetic acid MR and the rate of complete pathologic response in the lesions that disappear. "Disappearing lesions" were lesions on baseline imaging that were not identifiable on pre-operative Eovist MRI. Complete pathologic response was defined as no viable tumor on pathology or by lack of recurrence within 1 year.

RESULTS

In 23 patients, 200 colorectal metastases were identified on baseline imaging. On pre-operative Eovist MR 77 of the 200 lesions (38.5%) were "disappearing" lesions. At surgical pathology or 1 year follow-up imaging, 42 of 77 lesions (55%) demonstrated viable tumor (21) or recurrence (21). Thirty of 77 lesions (39%) were nonviable at pathology (10) or without evidence of recurrence at 1 year (20). 5 lesions were indeterminate.

DISCUSSION

Despite disappearance on Eovist MR imaging (the most sensitive available imaging modality), 38.5% of all colorectal metastases disappeared and of those, 55% were viable.

Diffusion-weighted and hepatobiliary phase gadoxetic acid-enhanced quantitative MR imaging for identification of complete pathologic response in colorectal liver metastases after preoperative chemotherapy

PURPOSE

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and gadoxetic acid-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to differentiate colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) with complete pathologic response from those with incomplete response in patients treated with preoperative chemotherapy.

METHODS

Gadoxetic acid-enhanced liver MRI and DWI were performed after completion of preoperative chemotherapy in patients with CRLM scheduled for liver resection. Metastases were classified as those with complete pathologic response (CR-CRLM) or incomplete response (IR-CRLM) according to postsurgical histopathology. Quantitative analysis was performed on non-contrast-enhanced images and hepatobiliary phase images following gadoxetic acid administration. Apparent diffusion coefficient values (ADC), normalized relative enhancement (NRE), and relative signal intensity difference (RSID) along with their diagnostic measures for detection of CR-CRLM were calculated for all lesions.

RESULTS

In 23 patients, 10 CR-CRLM and 35 IR-CRLM (mean diameter, 21.2 mm) were evaluated. In CR-CRLM, ADC was significantly higher after exclusion of the outliers (p = 0.030); and RSID was significantly lower (p = 0.008). Combined indices range of ADC = 1.25-1.9 × 10(-3) mm(2)/s, NRE = 0-35% and RSID <120 had 60% sensitivity and 100% specificity for detection of CR-CRLM.

CONCLUSION

DWI and gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI appear promising for the detection of CRLM with complete response to preoperative chemotherapy. This could have significant implications for liver resection planning after preoperative chemotherapy.

Impact of surgical margin clearance for resection of secondary hepatic malignancies

Over the past several decades, there has been increasing discussion regarding the optimal management of secondary liver malignancies. Traditionally, resection has only been recommended if it could be accomplished with negative microscopic margins of at least 10 mm. However, many investigators have pushed this limit to offer resection to patients with narrower margins. We review the data regarding the impact of margin clearance on outcomes for patients undergoing hepatic metastasectomy.

Complete pathological response of unresectable liver metastases from colorectal cancer after trans-arterial chemoembolization with drug-eluting beads loaded with irinotecan (DEBIRI) and concomitant systemic FOLFOX: A case report from the FFCD 1201 trial

INTRODUCTION

Most liver metastases from colorectal cancer (CRC) are unresectable at diagnosis. Systemic chemotherapy allows secondary surgical resection in 10 to 20% of patients. Hepatic intra-arterial treatments could enhance response and resection rate. We therefore designed a prospective phase II trial testing the transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) using drug-eluting beads loaded with irinotecan (DEBIRI) with concomitant systemic FOLFOX regimen, the FFCD 1201 trial, in patients with liver limited metastatic CRC.

CASE REPORT

A 48-year old patient was operated from an occlusive sigmoid adenocarcinoma. Magnetic resonance imaging showed 6 bilobar liver metastasis. The patient was considered as non-eligible for surgery initially. Patient was included in the FFCD 1201 trial and received 5 cycles of FOLFOX and 2 sessions of DEBIRI, with a quite good tolerability. Post-treatment evaluation showed a partial response and sufficient tumor shrinkage to make liver metastasis resectable. Right hepatectomy associated with wedge resection in the left liver was performed and pathological findings showed a complete pathological response (CPR).

CONCLUSION

Combination of DEBIRI with FOLFOX could increase tumor shrinkage leading to secondary resection of liver metastases from CRC. This combination may also, as shown here for the first time in a patient with unresectable LM, induce CPR of all LM, known to be associated with better outcome. Our case also emphasizes the difficulty to morphologically assess pathological response and the need for new tool to better select patients who should be resected. Further results of the FFCD 1201 trial will bring more information on this new combination therapy.

Disappearing liver metastases from colorectal cancer: impact of modern imaging modalities

BACKGROUND

Chemotherapy is often used before a resection for colorectal liver metastases. After chemotherapy, metastases may disappear on cross-sectional imaging but residual metastatic disease may still exist. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the impact of new advancements in imaging technology such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with liver-specific contrast (Gd-EOB-DTPA) and contrast-enhanced intra-operative ultrasound (CE-IOUS) on disappearing liver metastases (DLM).

METHODS

Twenty-nine patients with one or more DLM undergoing surgical exploration were included. Pre-operative imaging consisted of contrast-enhanced multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) and/or MRI with liver-specific contrast. At surgery, CE-IOUS was used when tumours known from pre-chemotherapy imaging were not found by inspection or intra-operative ultrasound.

RESULTS

Patients presented 66 DLM. At surgical exploration, 42 DLM were identified and treated (64%). CE-IOUS detected one additional DLM not found by intra-operative ultrasound. For metastases ≤10 mm on histological analysis, imaging sensitivities for MRI and MDCT before surgery but after chemotherapy were 26/49 (53%) and 24/66 (36%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

A majority of DLM are identified during surgery using intra-operative ultrasound, with only little additional value of CE-IOUS. The sensitivities of post-chemotherapy imaging modalities for small metastases are low in the setting of DLM. For surgical planning, an optimized pre-chemotherapy imaging is essential.

Hepatic Resection for Disappearing Liver Metastasis: a Cost-Utility Analysis

BACKGROUND

We sought to estimate the cost-effectiveness of hepatic resection (HR) (strategy A) relative to surveillance plus 6 months of additional systemic chemotherapy (sCT) (strategy B) for patients with colorectal disappearing liver metastases (DLM).

METHODS

A Markov model was developed using data from a systematic literature review. Three base cases were evaluated: (1) a 60-year-old patient with three lesions in the right hemi-liver who underwent 6 months of sCT, had normalized carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), and was diagnosed with DLM through a computed tomography (CT) scan; (2) a 60-year-old patient with three lesions in the right hemi-liver who underwent 6 months of sCT, had normalized CEA, and was diagnosed with DLM through a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan; and (3) a 60-year-old patient with three lesions in the right hemi-liver who underwent 6 months of sCT plus hepatic artery infusion (HAI), had normalized CEA, and was diagnosed with DLM through a MRI scan. The outcomes evaluated were quality-adjusted life months (QALMs), incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER), and net health benefit (NHB).

RESULTS

The NHB of strategy A versus strategy B was positive in base case 1 (7.7 QALMs, ICER $34.449/quality-adjusted life year (QALY)) and base case 2 (1.6 QALMs, ICER $43,948/QALY). In contrast it was negative (-0.2 QALMs, ICER $72,474/QALY) for base case 3. Monte Carlo simulation showed that strategy B is acceptable only in old patients (>60 years) with normalized CEA and MRI-based diagnosis. In younger patients, strategy B may reach cost-effectiveness only after sCT plus HAI.

CONCLUSION

Surveillance of DLM after sCT was more beneficial and cost-effective among patients >60 years with multiple factors predictive of true complete pathological response, such as normalization of CEA, HAI therapy, BMI ≤30 kg/m(2), and diagnosis of DLM made through MRI.

Tumour growth after portal vein embolization with pre-procedural chemotherapy for colorectal liver metastases

BACKGROUND

For resection of colorectal cancer (CRC) liver metastases, pre-operative portal vein embolization (PVE) is used to increase the size of the future liver remnant (FLR) prior to advanced liver resection when indicated. PVE is speculated to cause tumour progression, but only a limited number of studies have analysed tumour growth after PVE in the context of pre-procedural chemotherapy, which was the aim of this retrospective study.

METHODS

Patients treated with stabilizing chemotherapy and PVE before liver resection for CRC metastases were included. Tumour progression according to RECIST guidelines and a change in tumour volume was analysed on computed tomography (CT) scans prior to chemotherapy, before PVE and after PVE, respectively.

RESULTS

Thirty-four patients were included, of whom 23 had bilobar disease. Of tumours in the embolized lobe, 3/34 showed progression after PVE as compared with 3/23 in the non-embolized lobe (P = 0.677). A decrease in tumour volume of 16% and 11% was noted in the embolized and non-embolized lobe, respectively (P = 0.368). Patients were off chemotherapy in a median of 16 days before PVE. There was a linear correlation between the growth of tumours and time between the end of chemotherapy and PVE (r = 0.25, P = 0.0005).

CONCLUSION

The rate of progression of CRC liver metastases after PVE and pre-procedural chemotherapy was lower in the present study as compared with previous reports. This applies to tumours in both the embolized and non-embolized lobes and is associated with keeping the time between the end of chemotherapy and PVE short.

Colorectal cancer with potentially resectable hepatic metastases: optimizing treatment

Colorectal cancer is a common malignancy and often presents with synchronous or metachronous distant spread. For patients with hepatic metastases, resection is the principal curative option. Liberalization of the indications for hepatic resection has introduced a number of challenges related to the size, distribution, and number of metastases as well as the condition of the future liver remnant. Advances in systemic therapy have solidified its role as both an important adjunct to surgery and also for many patients as a mechanism to facilitate resection. In patients whose disease is marginally resectable as a consequence of the distribution of hepatic lesions that precludes complete resection or out of concern for the future liver remnant, a number of strategies have been advocated, including prehepatectomy systemic therapy, staged surgical approaches, ablative technologies, and preoperative portal vein embolization. It is the purpose of this review to discuss ways in which to optimize the treatment of patients with potentially resectable disease, specifically those who are judged to have "borderline" resectable situations.

Comparative effectiveness in hepatic malignancies

The benefits of applying comparative effectiveness research (CER) strategies to the management of cancer are important. As the incidence of cancer increases both in the United States and worldwide, accurate analysis of which tests and treatments should be applied in which situations is critical, both in terms of measurable and meaningful clinical outcomes and health care costs. In the last 20 years alone, multiple controversies have arisen in the diagnosis and treatment of primary and metastatic tumors of the liver, making the management of liver malignancies a prime example of CER. Contributing factors to the development of these controversies include improvements in molecular characterization of these diseases and technological advances in surgery and radiology. The relative speed of these advances has outpaced data from clinical trials, in turn making robust data to inform clinical practice lacking. Indeed, many of the current treatment recommendations for the management of liver malignancies are based primarily on retrospective data. We herein review select CER issues concerning select decision-making topics in the management of liver malignancies.

Challenges in the multidisciplinary management of stage IV colon and rectal cancer

Colorectal metastases still represent a challenge to all oncologists despite progresses achieved by improved resectability, systemic chemotherapy and targeted therapies. In particular in patients with oligo-metastases, the role of surgical resections has been redefined. Resection is the most effective treatment method for liver metastases performed with curative intent; however, primary rate of resectability is low. Several methods to increase resectability have been developed: conversion chemotherapy, portal vein embolization, two-stage resections, vascular reconstruction of the liver veins, combination of resection and intraoperative ablation. Liver resections can be performed at present with low mortality. Patients with isolated peritoneal metastases, no extra-abdominal disease, low volume tumor and complete surgical cytoreduction do benefit from surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. Several national guidelines recommend multimodality treatment for highly selected patients. The management of stage IV colorectal cancer includes several disciplines with focus on resection. A multidisciplinary evaluation of all patients is of crucial importance to define the treatment sequence and individual strategies for each patient.

Unresolved issues and controversies surrounding the management of colorectal cancer liver metastasis

Ideally, tumors that might cause morbidity and mortality should be treated, preferably early, with proven, convincing, and effective therapy to prevent tumor progression or recurrence, while maintaining a favorable risk-benefit profile for the individual patient. For patients with colorectal cancer (CRC), this diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic precision is currently impossible. Despite significant improvements in diagnostic procedures, a sizable number of patients with CRC have liver metastases either at presentation or will subsequently develop it. And in many parts of the world, most cancer-related deaths are still due to metastases that are resistant to conventional therapy. Metastases to the liver occur in more than 50% of patients with CRC and represent the major determinant of outcome following curative treatment of the primary tumor. Liver resection offers the best chance of cure for metastases confined to the liver. However, due to a paucity of randomized controlled trials, its timing is controversial and a hotly debated topic. This article reviews some of the main controversies surrounding the surgical management of colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRLM).

Advances in understanding of colorectal liver metastasis and implications for the clinic

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in both the USA and Europe. Over the course of diagnosis, treatment and surveillance, up to 50% of these patients will develop metastases to their liver. In the past 20 years alone, there have been multiple advances in the management of these colorectal metastases to the liver. These advances have been made in characterization of these tumors, diagnosis and in treatment, both locally and systemically. Because of this progress, there are subsets of patients with this stage IV disease who are cured of their disease. While significant progress has been made, there still exist limitations in the management of metastatic colorectal cancer to the liver. This review outlines current strategies and highlights recent advances in the management of colorectal liver metastases.

"Vanishing liver metastases"-A real challenge for liver surgeons

Expanded surgical intervention in colorectal liver metastasis (LM) and improved chemotherapy led to increasing problem of disappearing liver metastases (DLM). Treatment of those continues to evolve and poses a real challenge for HPB surgeons. This review discusses a clinical approach to DLM, emphasizing crucial steps in clinical algorithm. Particular issues such as imaging, intraoperative detection and surgical techniques are addressed. A step-by-step algorithm is suggested.

Colorectal cancer with liver metastases: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy, surgical resection first or palliation alone?

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the commonest cancers with 1.2 million new cases diagnosed each year in the world. It remains the fourth most common cause of cancer-related mortality in the world and accounts for > 600000 cancer-related deaths each year. There have been significant advances in treatment of metastatic CRC in last decade or so, due to availability of new active targeted agents and more aggressive approach towards the management of CRC, particularly with liver-only-metastases; however, these drugs work best when combined with conventional chemotherapy agents. Despite these advances, there is a lack of biomarkers to inform us about the accurate management of the patients with metastatic CRC. It is therefore imperative to carefully select the patients with comprehensive multi-disciplinary team input in order to optimise the management of these patients. In this review we will discuss various treatment options available in management of colorectal liver metastases with potential guidance on how and when to choose these options along with consideration on future directions in management of this disease.