Prophylactic oophorectomy in colorectal carcinoma: preliminary results of a randomized, prospective trial

A propensity score-matched analysis of oncological outcome after systemic therapy for stage IV colorectal cancer: Impact of synchronous ovarian metastases

The reported incidence of synchronous and metachronous ovarian metastases (OM) from colorectal cancer (CRC) is ~3.4%. OM from CRC are often considered sanctuary sites due to their lower sensitivity to systemic treatment. It has thus been hypothesized that the presence of OM decreases overall survival. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to evaluate the impact of synchronous OM on overall survival in female patients with stage IV CRC treated with systemic therapy alone with palliative intent. The present study used data from the Netherlands Cancer Registry and included female CRC patients with synchronous systemic metastases who were treated with systemic therapy between 2008 and 2018. A subsample was created using propensity score matching to create comparable groups. Propensity scores were determined using a logistic regression model in which the dependent variable was the presence of OM and the independent variables were the variables that differed significantly between both groups. Our study included 5253 patients with stage IV CRC that received systemic therapy. Among these patients, 161 (3%) had OM while 5092 (97%) had extra-ovarian metastases only. Three-year overall survival rates did not show a significant difference between patients with OM compared to patients without ovarian metastases. Moreover, the propensity score-matched analysis showed that the presence of OM in patients treated with systemic therapy for stage IV CRC disease was not associated with decreased 3-year overall survival. However, the results of the present study should be interpreted with caution, due to its observational character and used selection criteria.

The impact of prophylactic oophorectomy on the survival for postmenopausal patients with pT4a colorectal cancer

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic effect of prophylactic oophorectomy (PO) in postmenopausal patients with pT4 colorectal cancers (CRC) in terms of overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and peritoneal metastasis.

METHODS

The data of postmenopausal female patients with pT4 CRC undergoing surgical resection between 2000 and 2019 were analyzed. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to evaluate survival outcomes between patients treated with and without PO. Risk factors for DFS and peritoneal metastasis were evaluated using Cox regression analysis. p-values <0.05 were considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Totally, 176 (34.3%) patients received PO. There was no significant difference in estimated blood loss, rates of postoperative complications, and hospitalization between the PO and non-PO groups. The 5-year OS and DFS rates were similar in the two groups (47.9% vs. 54.1%, p = 0.278; 53.5% vs. 50.5%, p = 0.161, respectively). In the subgroup analysis of patients with peritoneal metastasis, the median survival was significantly longer for the PO group compared with the non-PO group (14 vs. 11 months, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Undertaking PO in pT4 CRC female patients did not confer a survival benefit. Indication of PO even for advanced CRC patients should require caution. It has potential survival benefit only when the patients developed metachronous peritoneal metastases.

Role Of Ovarian Metastases In Colorectal Cancer (ROMIC): a Dutch study protocol to evaluate the effect of prophylactic salpingo-oophorectomy in postmenopausal women

Background

The mean incidence of ovarian metastases (OM) in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) is 3.4%. The 5-year survival of these patients, even when operated with curative intent, is remarkably low. The lifetime risk of ovarian cancer is approximately 1.3%. Prophylactic salpingo-oophorectomy (PSO, or surgical removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes) could reduce the number of CRC patients that develop OM after removal of the primary tumor, as well as preventing the occurrence of primary ovarian cancer. Recently, the care pathway for CRC has been changed in several hospitals in line with the updated Dutch guideline. The possibility of PSO is now discussed with postmenopausal CRC patients in these hospitals. The aims of the current study are firstly to estimate the incidence of OM and primary ovarian cancer in postmenopausal patients with CRC, and secondly to evaluate the effect of PSO in these patients.

Methods

An information bulletin and decision guide on this topic was implemented in several Dutch hospitals in 2020. Post-decision outcomes will be collected prospectively. The study population consists of postmenopausal (≥ 60 years of age) patients that are operated with curative intent for CRC. Based on their own preference, patients will be divided into two groups: those who choose to undergo PSO and those who do not. The main study parameters are the reduction in incidence of ovarian malignancies (metastatic or primary) following PSO, and the number needed to treat (NNT) by PSO to prevent one case of ovarian malignancy.

Discussion

This will be the first study to evaluate the effect of PSO in postmenopausal CRC patients that is facilitated by an altered CRC care pathway. The results of this study are expected to provide relevant information on whether PSO adds significant value to postmenopausal patients with CRC.

Trial registration

International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, NL7870. Registered on 2019 July 12. URL of trial registry record: https://trialsearch.who.int/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=NL7870.

Protocol version: 1.0, date 2021 June 8. 

Prognosis and factors affecting colorectal cancer with ovarian metastasis

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors. Its incidence has been increasing in recent years, as has the number of cases of ovarian metastasis of colorectal cancer. The prognosis of colorectal cancer with ovarian metastasis is poor, and it is an important cause of death in female patients. A variety of clinicopathological factors were found to be related to the prognosis of patients with colorectal cancer with ovarian metastasis, such as menopausal status, metastasis limited to the pelvis, and tumor differentiation. Tumor genetic characteristics also provide a new perspective for the prognostic evaluation of colorectal cancer with ovarian metastasis. The prognosis of ovarian metastasis is also closely associated with treatment. The major treatment methods are prophylactic oophorectomy, surgical resection of the primary and metastatic lesions, cytoreductive surgery combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy and systematic therapy. If feasible, complete surgical resection of the primary and ovarian metastatic macroscopic lesions combined with postoperative chemotherapy might currently be the most effective treatment for improving the prognosis of patients with colorectal cancer with ovarian metastasis. Genetic analysis also provides a theoretical basis for potential targeted therapy and immunotherapy.

Clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis analysis of ovarian metastases in colorectal cancer: a single-center experience

PURPOSE

This study aimed to improve the management of ovarian metastases (OM) in colorectal cancer (CRC) by evaluating the clinicopathological characteristics, therapeutic strategies, and prognostic factors associated with OM originating from CRC.

METHODS

Medical records of patients who were histopathologically diagnosed with OM of CRC origin were reviewed from January 2011 to December 2018 in our medical center. Data related to clinicopathological characteristics, therapeutic strategies, and survival time were recorded and analyzed. Survival and prognosis analyses were carried out to identify variables significantly associated with the outcomes.

RESULTS

Forty-six patients were included in the study with a median follow-up of 14 months. Premenopausal (< 50 years) and colon cancer patients were more likely to develop OM. Synchronous OM was found in 34 patients and elevated carbohydrate antigen 125 value could be seen in 67.4% of patients. Bilateral ovarian involvement (27/46, 58.8%) and combined extra-ovarian metastases (32/46, 69.6%) were common in included patients. Complete cytoreduction surgery (R0 resection) was finally achieved in 19 of included patients and 41 patients received postoperative chemotherapy. However, the overall prognosis remains poor, with a median survival time of only 12 months. In univariate analysis, histological types (P = 0.002), peritoneal metastasis (P < 0.0001), the extent of metastatic lesions (P = 0.0001), and completeness of cytoreduction surgery (P < 0.0001) were found to be closely related to prognosis. Finally, completeness of cytoreduction surgery was considered to be the independent determinant of patients' outcome (HR 0.186, 95% CI 0.047-0.727, P = 0.016) by multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

In multitudinous factors, complete cytoreduction surgery (R0 resection) may provide survival benefits in patients with OM of CRC origin. Thus, it is reasonable to recommend aggressive surgery with curative intent even if extra-ovarian metastases are present. Furthermore, postoperative chemotherapy may exert a positive effect on the treatment, but needs to be confirmed by large-scale trials with more participants in the future.

Appendiceal tumours and pseudomyxoma peritonei: Literature review with PSOGI/EURACAN clinical practice guidelines for diagnosis and treatment

Pseudomyxoma Peritonei (PMP) is a rare peritoneal malignancy, most commonly originating from a perforated epithelial tumour of the appendix. Given its rarity, randomized controlled trials on treatment strategies are lacking, nor likely to be performed in the foreseeable future. However, many questions regarding the management of appendiceal tumours, especially when accompanied by PMP, remain unanswered. This consensus statement was initiated by members of the Peritoneal Surface Oncology Group International (PSOGI) Executive Committee as part of a global advisory role in the management of uncommon peritoneal malignancies. The manuscript concerns an overview and analysis of the literature on mucinous appendiceal tumours with, or without, PMP. Recommendations are provided based on three Delphi voting rounds with GRADE-based questions amongst a panel of 80 worldwide PMP experts.

A case of metachronous left ovarian metastasis 8 years after surgery for cecal cancer and right ovarian metastasis: Report of a case

Metachronous ovarian metastasis of colorectal adenocarcinoma is mostly identified within 3 years. Here we present a case of a 64-year-old woman with cecal cancer who underwent right oophorectomy for ovarian metastasis. Imaging was performed because of abdominal bloating; it detected a swollen right ovary with ascites. On laparotomy, a right ovarian tumor and cecal cancer were identified. After right oophorectomy, a diagnosis of unilateral ovarian metastasis from colon cancer was made. One month later, right hemicolectomy was performed. Eight years after initial surgery, the patient presented with vaginal bleeding. A computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a pelvic mass approximately 10 cm in diameter, but no mass was evident on a CT image taken 6 months before. The patient was diagnosed with left ovarian metastasis from colon cancer. A third laparotomy revealed a left ovarian tumor, but there was no evidence of other metastases or peritoneal dissemination. Left oophorectomy was performed. Oophorectomy is considered to be associated with a survival benefit in ovarian metastasis without other extensive metastasis. However, ovarian metastasis is often bilateral. Although complete resection was achieved in the present case, the findings support performing prophylactic bilateral oophorectomy if metastasis is identified in a unilateral ovary.

Complete resection of colorectal cancer with ovarian metastases combined with chemotherapy is associated with improved survival

BACKGROUND

Ovarian metastases (OM) from colorectal cancer (CRC) are uncommon, and data about optimal management are lacking. The aim of this study was to examine the management and outcomes of patients with OM from CRC.

METHODS

A retrospective review of records of patients with a histopathological diagnosis of OM from CRC who were treated at Christchurch Hospital between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2016. Data related to presentation, clinicopathological characteristics, treatment and outcomes were recorded. The primary outcomes were overall survival and disease-free survival.

RESULTS

Thirty-one patients were identified (median age 55 years, range 28-77), with a median follow-up of 23 months (range 3-84 months). Abdominal pain was the most common presenting symptom (22 patients). Synchronous OM occurred in 22 patients, 14 patients had bilateral ovarian involvement. Twenty-one patients received adjuvant chemotherapy. R0 resection was achieved in 14 patients. For all patients the 5-year disease-free and overall survival were 11% and 12%, respectively, while 5-year overall survival for R0 resections was 30%. Improved median survival was associated with negative colon resection margins (26.7 months versus 7.8 months, P = 0.03), R0 resection (30.5 months versus 23.5 months, P = 0.04), and use of adjuvant chemotherapy (28.8 months versus 8.2 months, P < 0.0001); however, on multivariate analysis adjuvant chemotherapy was the only independent factor associated with improved prognosis (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

OM from CRC are uncommon and carry a poor prognosis. Improved survival was associated with complete surgical resection of the primary tumour and metastatic disease in combination with systemic chemotherapy.

Clinical outcomes of women with ovarian metastases of colorectal cancer treated with oophorectomy with respect to their somatic mutation profiles

We clarified the clinical prevalence of ovarian metastases from colorectal cancers (CRCs) in 296 female patients with CRC and evaluated clinical outcomes with relation to their mutational profiles, such as BRAF/KRAS mutation and microsatellite instability (MSI) status. The female CRCs were categorised into three subsets: CRCs with ovarian metastases [6.4% (n = 19), 5-year overall survival (OS) = 24.7%], CRCs with extra-ovarian metastases only [32.4% (n = 96), 5-year OS = 34.5%] and CRCs without any recurrence or metastasis [61.2% (n = 181), 5-year OS = 91.3%]. All patients with ovarian metastases underwent oophorectomy; of these, 9 who received preoperative chemotherapy had measurable metastases to extra-ovarian sites and the ovaries. Although 5 of 9 (56%) achieved partial response or complete response at extra-ovarian sites, no patient archived objective response at ovarian sites. Regarding the mutation profiles, in CRCs with extra-ovarian metastases only, the median survival time (MST) after initial treatments to progression to stage IV or recurrence was 13 [95% confidence interval (CI): 7–16 months] in BRAF-mutant and 34 months (95% CI: 22–58 months) in BRAF wild-type (P = 0.0033). Although ovarian metastases demonstrated poor response to systemic chemotherapy in CRCs with ovarian metastases, the MST after initial treatments to progression to stage IV or recurrence was 22 (95% CI: 21–25 months) in BRAF-mutant and 38 months (95% CI: 24–42 months) in BRAF wild-type (P = 0.0398). The outcomes of patients with ovarian metastases could be improved by oophorectomy regardless of their mutation profiles.

Bilateral ovarian micrometastatic adenocarcinoma upon prophylactic oophorectomy concurrent with low anterior resection for rectal cancer

Background

This case report draws attention to the debated role of prophylactic oophorectomy in women undergoing definitive surgical resection of colon and rectal cancers. It can be challenging to discern the indications and appropriate patient population for this procedure based on the current literature. Potential benefits include treatment and prevention of metastatic disease, preventing development of primary ovarian cancer, and prolonging survival. Negative effects include an increase in operative time and potential morbidity, development of osteoporosis, the risk of cardiac events, and decreasing sexual function. Multiple patient factors such as age, menopausal status, patient preference, presence of hereditary conditions, exposure to radiation, site, and stage of disease should be considered.

Case presentation

We present a case in which a premenopausal 49-year-old female underwent a prophylactic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy concurrently with a low anterior resection following neoadjuvant chemoradiation for clinical stage III rectal cancer. On pathologic examination, resection margins and all 14 lymph nodes harvested were negative for malignancy. Interestingly, she was found to have micrometastatic adenocarcinoma in the bilateral ovaries which had appeared grossly normal at the time of surgery.

Conclusions

After consideration of the current literature, patient preference, and our clinical judgment, our patient ultimately had a therapeutic effect after undergoing prophylactic bilateral oophorectomy concurrently with a low anterior resection for rectal cancer. The addition of prophylactic oophorectomy in a select population, specifically women 50 years of age or younger and/or women who are in the premenopausal state, may carry a survival benefit in the setting of definitive surgical resection of colon and rectal cancers.

Clinical analysis of Krukenberg tumours in patients with colorectal cancer-a review of 57 cases

BACKGROUND

A Krukenberg tumour (KT) is defined as an ovarian metastasis from a gastrointestinal adenocarcinoma and suggests a terminal condition. This study aimed to identify the prognostic factors affecting the survival of patients with KTs of colorectal origin who receive cytoreductive surgery.

METHODS

Medical records of patients who had received cytoreductive surgery and had been pathologically diagnosed with KT of colorectal origin in two centres were reviewed. Information about the patients' clinicopathological features and follow-up visit were collected. Factors influencing patient survival were analysed.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven patients were included in this study. The median survival time was 35 months. Five-year overall survival was 25%. Patients who had recurrence 2 years after resection of the primary tumour, achieved complete cytoreduction, had metastases confined to the pelvis, had no lymph node involvement, and received systemic chemotherapy had a significantly longer median survival than those who had recurrence at the same time as resection of the primary tumour (P = 0.027), received incomplete cytoreduction (P < 0.001), had metastases beyond the pelvis (P < 0.001), had lymph node involvement (P = 0.011), and did not receive systemic chemotherapy (P = 0.006) on log-rank test. Less extensive metastatic disease, achievement of complete cytoreduction, and use of systemic chemotherapy were significantly associated with improved prognosis on multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Cytoreductive surgery may confer survival benefits in patients with KTs of colorectal origin who attain complete cytoreduction and whose metastases are confined to the pelvis and when combined with active systemic chemotherapy.

Population-based analysis of colorectal cancer risk after oophorectomy

BACKGROUND

The development of colorectal cancer is influenced by hormonal factors. Oophorectomy alters endogenous levels of sex hormones, but the effect on colorectal cancer risk is unclear. The aim of this cohort study was to examine colorectal cancer risk after oophorectomy for benign indications.

METHODS

Women who had undergone oophorectomy between 1965 and 2011 were identified from the Swedish Patient Registry. Standard incidence ratios (SIRs) and 95 per cent confidence intervals for colorectal cancer risk were calculated compared with those in the general population. Stratification was carried out for unilateral and bilateral oophorectomy, and hysterectomy without specification of whether the ovaries were removed or not. Associations between the three oophorectomy options and colorectal cancer risk in different locations were assessed by means of hazard ratios (HRs) and 95 per cent confidence intervals calculated by Cox proportional hazards regression modelling.

RESULTS

Of 195 973 women who had undergone oophorectomy, 3150 (1·6 per cent) were diagnosed with colorectal cancer at a later date (median follow-up 18 years). Colorectal cancer risk was increased after oophorectomy compared with that in the general population (SIR 1·30, 95 per cent c.i. 1·26 to 1·35). The risk was lower for younger age at oophorectomy (15-39 years: SIR 1·10, 0·97 to 1·23; 40-49 years: SIR 1·26, 1·19 to 1·33; P for trend < 0·001). The risk was highest 1-4 years after oophorectomy (SIR 1·66, 1·51 to 1·81; P < 0·001). In the multivariable analysis, women who underwent bilateral oophorectomy had a higher risk of rectal cancer than those who had only unilateral oophorectomy (HR 2·28, 95 per cent c.i. 1·33 to 3·91).

CONCLUSION

Colorectal cancer risk is increased after oophorectomy for benign indications.

Prophylactic oophorectomy during primary colorectal cancer resection: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM: To appraise the current evidence for prophylactic oophorectomy in patients undergoing primary curative colorectal cancer resection.

METHODS: Occult ovarian metastases may lead to increased mortality, therefore prophylactic oophorectomy may be considered for women undergoing colorectal resection. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed for English language studies from 1994 to 2014 (PROSPERO Registry number: CRD42014009340), comparing outcomes following prophylactic oophorectomy (no known ovarian or other metastatic disease at time of surgery) vs no ovarian surgery, synchronous with colorectal resection for malignancy. Outcomes assessed: local recurrence, 5-year mortality, immediate post-operative morbidity and mortality, and rate of distant metastases.

RESULTS: Final analysis included 4 studies from the United States, Europe and China, which included 627 patients (210 prophylactic oophorectomy and 417 non-oophorectomy). There was one randomized controlled trials, the remainder being non-randomised cohort studies. The studies were all at high risk of bias according to the Cochrane Collaboration’s assessment tool for randomised studies and the Newcastle-Ottawa Score for the cohort studies. The mean age of patients amongst the studies ranged from 56.5 to 67 years. There were no significant differences between the patients having prophylactic oophorectomy at time of primary colorectal resection compared with patients who did not with respect to local recurrence, 5-year survival and distant metastases. There was no difference in post-operative complications or immediate post-operative mortality between the groups.

CONCLUSION: Current evidence does not favour prophylactic oophorectomy for patients without known genetic predisposition. Prophylactic surgery is not associated with additional risk of post-operative complications or death.

"Ovarian Metastases from Colorectal Cancer: Our Experience"

Ovarian metastases from colorectal cancer are uncommon and can present synchronously and metachronoulsy. Role of prophylactic oophorectomy for colorectal cancer is controversial and there is no definitive evidence to support it. A retrospective analysis of all the patients with colorectal cancer who had attended a single unit at our center have been analysed. Clinical presentation, Pathological features and image findings were analyzed. We had 7 patients with ovarian metastases who had presented synchronously or metachronously at our institute. Five patients presented synchronously at the time of primary surgery and 2 patients had presented metachronously after the treatment of primary. Three patients had malignancy in ascending colon and 2 had in sigmoid colon , one in rectosigmoid junction and one case in rectum. The mean overall survival rate was 12.4 months (range 6-20 months). All the patients received adjuvant chemotherapy. Ovarian metastases is rare in colorectal and occurs in younger patients.

Treatment of ovarian metastases of colorectal and appendiceal carcinoma in the era of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy

AIM

To compare outcome of women with ovarian metastasis who underwent cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS-HIPEC) to outcome of women without ovarian metastasis who underwent CRS-HIPEC.

METHODS

A prospective CRS-HIPEC database was searched to identify women with surgically treated colorectal carcinoma between 2000 and 2012. Patients with ovarian metastasis were identified and patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis but without ovarian metastasis were included as control cases.

RESULTS

75 patients with macroscopic ovarian metastasis underwent CRS-HIPEC with curative intent, while 50 female patients without ovarian metastasis were identified who underwent CRS-HIPEC. Patients with ovarian metastasis more often had a primary appendiceal tumour and had a more extensive intra-abdominal tumour load compared to patients without ovarian metastases. Median follow-up time was 45 months (95% confidence interval (CI): 37-53 months). Overall survival (OS) did not differ significantly between the two groups with a median OS in the ovarian metastasis group of 40 months (95% CI 26-54) compared to 64 months (95% CI 17-111, P = 0.478) in the non-ovarian metastasis group. Recurrence patterns did not differ significantly between groups (p = 0.183).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with ovarian metastasis of colorectal and appendiceal origin who underwent CRS-HIPEC had similar outcome compared to patients without ovarian metastasis. Given the findings of high coincidence of peritoneal metastases with ovarian metastases and ovarian metastases not being an independent factor for survival after CRS-HIPEC, this procedure should be recommended for patients with peritoneal metastases and ovarian metastases of colorectal and appendiceal carcinoma.

Chemosensitivity in ovarian metastases from gastric cancer: a case series

The development of ovarian metastases from gastric cancer indicates a turning point of the disease progression and is usually associated with poor prognosis. Efficacy of modern chemotherapy protocols in ovarian metastases from gastric cancer is unknown. In this case series, we have evaluated the chemosensitivity of ovarian metastases from gastric cancer in eight consecutive patients treated in our institution between January 2000 and April 2012. Median age at gastric cancer diagnosis was 48.3 years and ovarian metastases were mainly metachronous (88%). Patients were treated with FOLFOX or FOLFIRI protocols in first-line and with EOX protocol in second-line chemotherapy. These protocols of chemotherapy used in first- and second-line treatment were able to control the disease in 33.3% for ovarian metastases compared to 66.7% for extraovarian metastases. Mean overall survival (OS) from ovarian metastases diagnosis was 14.2 months. The four patients treated by bilateral oophorectomy had a longer mean OS (16 months) than the four patients who did not experienced surgery (12.3 months). In conclusion, this case series suggests that ovarian metastases from gastric cancer are less sensitive than extraovarian metastases to modern protocol of chemotherapy. To confirm these observations, a large retrospective study is ongoing.

Virilisation during Pregnancy in a Patient with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

This paper describes the case of a 25-year-old woman with virilisation occurring during pregnancy in the presence of metastatic colorectal cancer. Virilisation during pregnancy is rare. The potential causes include adrenal, foetal, or ovarian pathologies. The most common causes during pregnancy are pregnancy luteoma and hyperreactio luteinalis. The incidence of cancer during pregnancy is rare and the incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) in pregnancy is even rarer. The presenting signs and symptoms of CRC can be confused with symptoms commonly encountered during pregnancy, thereby delaying diagnosis and commencement of treatment. Diagnosis and staging also proves more problematic in the pregnant patient as the usual modalities of colonoscopy with biopsy and imaging with CT are relatively contraindicated. Treatment is dependent on gestational age of the foetus. There is currently no agreed best practice as to the role of prophylactic oophorectomy in the prevention of metachronous ovarian metastases. Surgical and adjuvant treatments have implications for females of child-bearing age.

Survival benefit associated with surgical oophorectomy in patients with colorectal cancer metastatic to the ovary

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to determine the outcome of patients with colorectal cancer metastatic to the ovary and the impact of surgical oophorectomy on the outcome.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective evaluation of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer to the ovary. Of 3776 female patients with colorectal cancer seen at MD Anderson from 2001-2008, 110 (2.9%) were identified as having metastases to the ovary. The Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test were used to examine the survival functions.

RESULTS

Seventy-one patients (64.5%) had disease metastatic to the ovary at the time of initial presentation; in 39 patients (35.5%) the ovaries were a site of relapse after previous curative colorectal surgical resection. Patients who presented with ovarian relapse after previous colorectal surgery and who underwent oophorectomy had a median survival of 50 months compared with 12 months for those who did not (P < .0001). Patients with metastatic disease at the time of presentation who underwent oophorectomy had a median survival of 39.4 months vs. 18.2 months for those who did not.

CONCLUSIONS

This retrospective analysis suggests that women with metastatic colorectal cancer metastatic to the ovary may derive a survival benefit from palliative oophorectomy.

Interaction between synchronous bilateral prophylactic oophorectomy and adjuvant chemotherapy in female patients with locally advanced colorectal cancer

AIM

In this study we explored the prognostic impact of synchronous bilateral prophylactic oophorectomy in female patients with primary colorectal cancer undergoing radical surgery.

METHOD

From 1991 to 2000, 267 female patients with stage II or stage III colorectal cancer, who had undergone curative resection, were retrospectively reviewed. In 224 patients, the ovaries were preserved. The other 43 patients underwent synchronous bilateral prophylactic oophorectomy. Univariate and multivariate analyses (Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression, respectively) were used to evaluate the effect of prophylactic oophorectomy and other clinical factors on the prognosis of patients.

RESULTS

Both univariate and multivariate analyses showed that tumor stage and adjuvant chemotherapy were the only two significant clinical factors that affected the 5-year overall survival of patients (P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in the 5-year overall survival between patients who had, or had not, undergone prophylactic oophorectomy (75%vs 73%, P > 0.05). In the subgroup analysis by adjuvant chemotherapy, the 5-year overall survival in patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy was similar between nonoophorectomy and oophorectomy groups. However, in patients without adjuvant chemotherapy, the oophorectomy group was shown to have a significantly better 5-year overall survival than the nonoophorectomy group (76%vs 51%, P = 0.047).

CONCLUSION

Prophylactic oophorectomy may improve the overall survival of female patients with locally advanced colorectal cancer without adjuvant chemotherapy, but its survival benefit vanished in patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy. The role of prophylactic oophorectomy may be substituted by adjuvant chemotherapy, which makes prophylactic oophorectomy unnecessary during surgery for locally advanced colorectal cancer.

Indication for oophorectomy during cytoreduction for intraperitoneal metastatic spread of colorectal or appendiceal origin

BACKGROUND

The incidence of ovarian metastases at the time of peritoneal carcinomatosis, and the influence of such metastases on survival after cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), are unknown.

METHODS

This retrospective analysis included 194 women subjected to CRS and HIPEC since 2001. The incidence of ovarian metastases, disease-free survival and disease-specific survival were analysed.

RESULTS

The histological diagnosis was colorectal cancer carcinomatosis in 108 patients, peritoneal mucinous carcinomatosis (PMCA) in 23 and disseminated peritoneal adenomucinosis (DPAM) in 63. Ninety-nine patients underwent oophorectomy during the HIPEC procedure. Ovarian metastases were confirmed in at least 52 per cent of the patients. There was a significant difference in disease-free survival between women with or without ovarian metastases in both PMCA and DPAM groups (P = 0·044 and P = 0·010 respectively). No significant differences in survival were found in the group with colorectal cancer carcinomatosis.

CONCLUSION

When peritoneal carcinomatosis of colorectal or appendiceal origin is confirmed, at least 52 per cent of ovaries will have synchronous metastases. Disease-free survival after a HIPEC procedure for PMCA or DPAM is significantly lower in women with ovarian metastases. Oophorectomy during CRS for peritoneal carcinomatosis should be strongly considered.

Epidemiology and prognosis of ovarian metastases in colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

National guidelines for prophylactic oophorectomy in women with colorectal cancer are lacking. The aim of this population-based cohort study was to report on the prevalence, incidence and prognosis of ovarian metastases from colorectal cancer, providing information relevant to the discussion of prophylactic oophorectomy.

METHODS

All 4566 women with colorectal cancer in Stockholm County during 1995-2006 were included and followed until 2008. Prospectively collected data regarding clinical characteristics, treatment and outcome were obtained from the Regional Quality Registry.

RESULTS

The prevalence of ovarian metastases at the time of diagnosis of colorectal cancer was 1.1 per cent (34 of 3172) among women with colonic cancer and 0.6 per cent (8 of 1394) among those with rectal cancer (P = 0.105). After radical resection of stage I-III colorectal cancer, metachronous ovarian metastases were found during follow-up in 1.1 per cent (22 of 1971) with colonic cancer and 0.1 per cent (1 of 881) with rectal cancer (P = 0.006). Survival in patients with ovarian metastases was poor.

CONCLUSION

Ovarian metastases from colorectal cancer are uncommon.

Reoperation for recurrent colorectal cancer

Recurrence of colorectal carcinoma represents a significant challenge. As the majority of recurrences involve more than just the anastomosis, surgical resection is ordinarily a major undertaking. Curative resection may require resection of other organs and structures, resulting in complex reconstructive procedures and substantial morbidity. In addition, carefully selected patients with distant metastases to sites such as the liver and lungs may also undergo potentially curative resection. Long-term survival following curative surgery for recurrence, however, ranges from only 15 to 40%. In addition to resection for curative intent, some patients may benefit from palliative procedures designed to relieve symptoms. Surgery alone is not usually sufficient therapy in these patients. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy play a vital adjunctive role in the management of recurrent disease. This article strives to review the risk factors and patterns of recurrence, selection of individuals for resection of recurrent disease, and outcomes of surgical procedures.

Ovarian Metastases in Colorectal Cancer

Purpose:

The aims of this study were to determine the incidence, clinicopathologic features, and prognostic factors of ovarian involvement in primary colorectal cancer (CRC) and also to clear the role of prophylactic oophorectomy.

Methods:

Data from women with primary CRC treated between 1990 and 2004 were retrieved, and clinical and pathologic features of those who had undergone oophorectomy during CRC surgery were reviewed.

Results:

One hundred eighty cases (mean age, 48 years) were included. In 120 cases, ovaries were preserved, and 60 cases underwent bilateral oophorectomy in addition to primary CRC resection. Reasons for oophorectomy were prophylactic in 22 (36.6%), abnormal morphology in 35 (58.3%), and undetermined in 3 cases (5%). There were 5 metastatic carcinomas, 8 primary ovarian tumors, and 47 normal ovaries in the pathologic evaluation. No complication directly related to oophorectomy was noted. Patients with ovarian metastases had higher stages of tumor. Ovarian metastases were not related to menstrual status, CRC location, size, differentiation, and mucin production, as well as abnormal morphology of the ovary. The global prevalence of ovarian metastases in CRCs was 2.7%, and isolated ovarian metastases occurred in fewer than half of them. Of 120 women who underwent colectomy alone, 8 (6.6%) developed ovarian metastasis during 2 years of follow-up. Only 3 cases had isolated ovarian metastases. No patient with synchronous or metachronous ovarian metastases from CRC survived 5 years.

Conclusions:

Isolated ovarian metastases from primary CRC occur with a low frequency, and this may partially explain the debate regarding prophylactic oophorectomy at the time of curative resection for primary CRC.

Survival benefit from ovarian metastatectomy in colorectal cancer patients with ovarian metastasis: a retrospective analysis

PURPOSE

A recent study demonstrated that colorectal cancer (CRC) with ovarian metastases was less responsive to chemotherapy compared with extraovarian metastases. Hence, the ovary may actually represent a "sanctuary" for metastatic cells from CRC. The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of ovarian metastatectomy on survival of CRC patients with ovarian metastasis.

METHODS

Between 1996 and 2008, 83 CRC patients underwent an oophorectomy. For the historical control, 47 CRC patients with ovarian metastasis without resection were included in the analysis.

RESULTS

The median age was younger (48 years) in the oophorectomy group compared with the historical control (54 years; P = 0.012). The proportion of synchronous metastasis was higher in the oophorectomy group than in the control group (57 vs. 30%; P = 0.003). After a median follow-up duration of 60.8 months (range of 7.4-169.7 months), the median OS was significantly longer in the oophorectomy group (28.1 vs. 21.2 months, oophorectomy vs. non-oophorectomy; P = 0.038). For ovary-specific survival (date of ovarian metastasis diagnosis to death), CRC patients with an oophorectomy showed a significantly more favorable survival rate than the control group (20.8 vs. 10.9 months; P < 0.001). In univariate analyses, oophorectomy (P = 0.038), unilaterality of ovarian metastasis (P = 0.032), metastasis confined to ovaries (P < 0.001), normal CEA level (P < 0.001), good performance status (P = 0.001), palliative chemotherapy (P = 0.001), and primary disease resection (P = 0.005) were identified as significantly good prognostic factors for overall survival. The oophorectomy, chemotherapy, metastasis confined to ovaries, normal CEA level, and good performance status retained statistical significance at the multivariate level (P = 0.003, P = 0.004, P = 0.005, P = 0.015, and P = 0.029, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on this retrospective analysis, the ovarian metastatectomy significantly prolonged survival in CRC patients with ovarian metastases. The potential role of an ovarian metastatectomy in the management of CRC should be prospectively studied.

Ovarian metastases from colorectal cancer: a clinicopathological analysis of 103 patients

OBJECTIVE

To improve management of ovarian metastasis through assessment of clinicopathological features and treatment outcomes associated with ovarian metastasis from colorectal cancer.

METHOD

We recruited 103 subjects who were diagnosed with ovarian metastasis and subjected to surgery between June 1989 and December 2005. Clinical and pathological variables were evaluated. Survival and its associated factors were analysed with a median follow-up of 31 months after ovarian surgery (range 1-129 months).

RESULTS

The mean age at diagnosis was 46 years (range 14-72 years), synchronous ovarian metastasis occurred in 74 patients and metachronous in 29 patients. The primary tumour was more commonly associated with the colon rather than the rectum (84/1608, 5.2%vs 19/1534, 1.2%, P < 0.001). Combined metastases occurred in 69 patients (67%). Complete resection was achieved in 34 (33%) patients without other metastases. The estimated 5-year disease free survival and overall survival rate were 40.1% and 26.6%, respectively. From univariate analysis, lymphovascular invasion (35.6%vs 12.8%, P = 0.034), combined metastasis (50.9%vs 15.6%, P = 0.0035) and bilaterale ovarian metastasis (36.4%vs 10.6%, P = 0.015) were identified as significant poor prognosis factors, and from multivariate analysis combined metastasis and bilaterale ovarian metastasis were significant (P = 0.034 and P = 0.015, respectively).

CONCLUSION

This study suggests a role for regular follow-up computed tomography scans within 6 months postoperatively and tumour marker assays for the early detection of ovarian metastasis in premenopausal women after primary surgery, especially in colonic patients with poor prognostic factors.

Large solitary ovarian metastasis from colorectal cancer diagnosed by endoscopic ultrasound

A case is presented of rectal carcinoma in which during staging by endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) a second large extrarectal mass was seen not otherwise visualized on computer tomography (CT) that was a solitary ovarian metastasis. The surgeon was alerted to the EUS finding prior to the planned laparoscopic colectomy. On retrospective review of the CT pelvis after surgery, the radiologist could still not diagnose the ovarian lesion separated from the primary rectal tumor due to their close proximity. However, on EUS we were able to clearly see on real-time imaging that there was a distinct peri-rectal mass apart from the primary rectal tumor.

The differential response to chemotherapy of ovarian metastases from colorectal carcinoma

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients with metastatic (ovarian and extraovarian) CRC who underwent resection of ovarian metastases in our institution from April 1988 to August 2006 were analyzed and the response to preoperative chemotherapy was evaluated according to the RECIST criteria, and analyzed with respect to the sites of metastases (ovarian and extraovarian).

RESULTS

The studied population consisted of 23 women. At presentation, 20 patients had symptoms. Preoperative chemotherapy resulted in tumor control of measurable extraovarian metastases in 65% of cases. In contrast, no objective tumor response of ovarian metastases was observed, disease stabilization was obtained in only 3 patients (13%), and progression or occurrence of new ovarian metastases were observed in 20 patients (87%) (p=0.0005). With a median follow-up of 54 months [15-229], median overall survival was 30 months, and 3-year overall survival was 18%.

CONCLUSION

Ovarian metastases are less responsive to chemotherapy compared to other sites. As these "metastatic sanctuaries" often cause symptoms, surgical resection should always be considered for ovarian metastases, even in the case of associated extraovarian metastases.

Laparoscopic Prophylactic Oophorectomy Plus N3 Lymphadenectomy for Advanced Rectosigmoid Cancer

BACKGROUND

The primary aim of the present retrospective study was to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of laparoscopic prophylactic oophorectomy plus N3 lymph node dissection for patients with rectosigmoid cancer. The secondary aim was to explore the clinicopathologic features of ovarian micrometastasis from rectosigmoid cancer.

METHODS

We performed 244 laparoscopic resections of rectosigmoid cancer in women during a 6-year period. In them, 34 patients (13.9%) were subjected to prophylactic oophorectomy plus N3 lymphadenectomy in addition to the standard anterior or low anterior resection of rectosigmoid cancer, because the patients presented with ovarian cystic lesions, tethering of the ovary to the primary rectosigmoid tumor, and/or pelvic ascites accumulation, which were postulated as the indicative findings for the synchronous ovarian micrometastasis. The surgical procedures are detailed in the attached video. The surgical outcomes were compared between patients with (n = 34) and without (n = 210) these two additional procedures. In analyzing the clinicopathologic features of ovarian micrometastasis, we included both cases of laparoscopic (n = 34) and traditional open surgery (n = 30), whose prophylactic oophorectomy was performed by the same surgical indications.

RESULTS

Although the operation time was significantly longer (264.2 +/- 24.5 vs. 192.5 +/- 24.2 minutes, P < .0001) in patients with prophylactic oophorectomy and N3 lymphadenectomy, there was no significant difference between patients with and without the two additional procedures in blood loss, wound length, postoperative complications, diverting ileostomy, and mortality. Although flatus passage, hospitalization, postoperative pain, and return to partial activity were statistically different between the study groups, they were deemed clinically unimportant because the difference of mean was very small. Foley removal was delayed in patients with N3 lymphadenectomy by 2 days. With respect to surgical efficacy, we found that patients undergoing the two additional procedures could collect significantly more lymph nodes (22.0 +/- 4.0 vs. 14.4 +/- 2.4, P < .0001) for pathologic staging and facilitated upstaging of nodal status in three patients (8.8%). Patients undergoing prophylactic oophorectomy plus N3 lymphadenectomy could achieve good oncologic outcome, with the estimated 5-year survival rate of 62.5% and 69.2% in patients with and without ovarian micrometastasis, respectively. Clinicopathologically, patients with ovarian micrometastasis (n = 15) tended to have vascular invasion of tumor cells, as compared with those without (n = 49). However, ovarian micrometastasis was not related to menstrual status of patients, tumor location, tumor size, morphology, differentiation, mucin production, T stage, nodal invasion, and level of carcinoembryonic antigen.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic surgical techniques could be safely applied to perform prophylactic oophorectomy plus N3 lymphadenectomy with acceptable efficacy in a highly selected subset of patients with rectosigmoid cancer.

Metastatic ovarian carcinoma one year after surgical removal of colon carcinoma during pregnancy: a case report

Colorectal carcinoma during pregnancy is a very rare event. We presented a woman with metachronous metastatic ovarian tumor existing 1 year after surgical removal of perforated sigmoid colon carcinoma encountered during cesarean section of woman of 36-week gestation for fetal distress. Pregnant women with suspicious abdominal mass should be evaluated for a possible colorectal carcinoma even in the absence of any other gastrointestinal symptoms associated with it and undergo rectal examination and sigmoidoscopy. In addition, as synchronous and metachronous ovarian metastases are common in these patients, ovaries must be evaluated carefully by bisection during operation for possible metastasis, and in women who do not have a desire for fertility, prophylactic oophorectomy seems an appropriate treatment modality for resecting synchronous metastasis and preventing future metastasis.

The role of prophylactic oophorectomy in women undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Current gynaecological practice is to remove surgically accessible ovaries with prior consent in post menopausal women to eradicate the risk of subsequent development of ovarian cancer. However in colorectal surgery opinion is divided, although evidence suggests that ovarian metastases from colorectal adenocarcinoma occur in 3-4% of cases.

METHODS

The review is based on published literature of the role of prophylactic oophrectomy in women undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer, obtained from Medline/PubMed and other online databases using the terms 'prophylactic oophorectomy' and 'colon cancer'. Additional references were sourced by manually searching bibliographies of articles located.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

There is a paucity of published information and published reports have conflicting conclusions. A preliminary report of a randomised prospective trial suggests the probability of increased recurrence free survival in the oophorectomy group. It would seem appropriate to consider the necessity and possible benefits of oophorectomy in women prior to surgery for colorectal cancer. This would seem particularly relevant in distal sigmoid or upper rectal cancers when the ovaries or uterus may be directly invaded and curative surgery would involve en bloc resection. Post menopausal women with a family history of ovarian cancer should be advised to have oophorectomy.

Practice parameters for the management of rectal cancer (revised)

The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons is dedicated to assuring high-quality patient care by advancing the science, prevention, and management of disorders and diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus. The Standards Committee is composed of Society members who are chosen because they have demonstrated expertise in the specialty of colon and rectal surgery. This Committee was created to lead international efforts in defining quality care for conditions related to the colon, rectum, and anus. This is accompanied by developing Clinical Practice Guidelines based on the best available evidence. These guidelines are inclusive, and not prescriptive. Their purpose is to provide information on which decisions can be made, rather than dictate a specific form of treatment. These guidelines are intended for the use of all practitioners, health care workers, and patients who desire information about the management of the conditions addressed by the topics covered in these guidelines. It should be recognized that these guidelines should not be deemed inclusive of all proper methods of care or exclusive of methods of care reasonably directed to obtaining the same results. The ultimate judgment regarding the propriety of any specific procedure must be made by the physician in light of all of the circumstances presented by the individual patient.

Ovarian neoplasms in patients with colorectal cancer: understanding the role of prophylactic oophorectomy

Although the role of prophylactic oophorectomy is currently under debate and not well defined, it is of increasing and considerable relevance, especially in premenopausal women, particularly those with identifiable hereditary cancer syndromes. Patients with colorectal cancer with ovarian metastases are often symptomatic, require surgery, and have poor survival. Prophylactic oophorectomy abolishes the increased risk of primary ovarian cancer in these patients, resects synchronous metastases, and prevents development of metachronous ovarian metastases. Prophylactic oophorectomy trials, mostly conducted in postmenopausal women, have not shown survival advantage. In patients with ovarian metastases of colorectal cancer, maximal cytoreductive surgery followed by adjuvant therapy employing newer chemotherapeutic agents, whole abdominal irradiation with chemosensitization, or hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy may improve outcomes in selected patients.

Management of colorectal cancer patients in Australia: the National Colorectal Cancer Care Survey

BACKGROUND

The National Colorectal Cancer Care Survey was undertaken to determine the management patterns for individuals newly diagnosed with colorectal cancer in Australia.

METHODS

Between 1 February and 30 April 2000, all new cases of colorectal cancer registered at each Cancer Registry within Australia were entered into the survey. This generated a questionnaire that was sent to the treating surgeons. Chi-squared and logistic regression analyses were used to determine levels of statistical significance for the various comparisons of interest.

RESULTS

Of 2383 surgical questionnaires generated, 2015 (85%) were completed. A total of 1911 patients (95% of those who responded to the questionnaire) had an operation. Of the 86 guidelines for the management of colorectal cancer published by the National Health and Medical Research Council, the survey allowed for comparison between 18 of these, which covered a spectrum of surgical management. Thromboembolic prophylaxis was given to 1843 patients (96.4%) undergoing surgery. Prophylactic antibiotics were commonly used, but there appear to be issues regarding the best regimen to use. Curative resections were carried out in 1563 patients (81.8%), with anterior resections being the most commonly performed procedure. Adjuvant therapy was regularly used, but not all eligible patients were offered such treatment.

CONCLUSION

With the considerable resources required to develop clinical practice guidelines, studies like this are essential to monitor the impact of the guidelines. To ensure that the guidelines are in line with current evidence, regular reviews of the guideline recommendations are required.

The Role of Estrogens in BRCA1/2 Mutation Carriers

Persons undergoing genetic testing for an inherited predisposition to cancer often raise questions about recommendations for follow-up care. Missing from current guidelines is consideration of the role of estrogens for BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation carriers. Potential implications of hormones for risk of cancer and effectiveness of risk-reduction strategies need to be considered in the design of comprehensive guidelines for high-risk women. Patients who are mutation carriers may ask questions about the use of oral contraceptives, hormone replacement, and utility of current screening modalities. Controversy exists, even when considering these issues for the general population, but become more imperative when considering young, unaffected women who carry an inherited genetic mutation making decisions that may have long-term health consequences. Many patients have considered estrogen ablation via prophylactic surgeries as risk-reduction interventions. This article reviews data regarding these issues, makes recommendations based on available information, and offers future perspectives for those identified at high risk for cancer because of genetic predisposition. Although questions remain regarding the potential implications of hormones for risk of cancer and effectiveness of risk-reduction strategies, all information should be considered when educating and caring for such patients.

Prophylactic oophorectomy

Because of the lack of effective alternatives and the simplicity of the procedure, prophylactic oophorectomy is viewed as the best available tool for reducing the individual risk of ovarian cancer. The genetics of hereditary ovarian cancer are described in this chapter and a careful risk-versus-benefit assessment is provided with respect to two populations of patients that appear suitable candidates for this procedure. These include patients with increased risk of developing ovarian cancer due to hereditary genetic predisposition, in which the lifetime risk of ovarian cancer may be as high as 16-65%, depending on the penetrance of the germ-line mutation. Additionally, routine salpingo-oophorectomy in patients over 40 years undergoing scheduled gynaecological surgery or colorectal surgery might reduce the overall incidence of ovarian cancer by as much as 5% in the general population.

Gynecologic abnormalities in surgically treated women with stage II or III rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

The objective of this article is to review the incidence and management of gynecologic abnormalities in women undergoing surgery for rectal cancer.

STUDY DESIGN

We performed a retrospective chart review utilizing the Johns Hopkins Tumor Registry and Pathology database. Eighty-six female patients who underwent abdominal surgery between 1985 and 1996 for Stage II or Stage III rectal cancer were identified. Data gathered included: patient demographics, history, intraoperative findings and complications, cancer stage and histology, adjuvant treatments, and followup. Specific attention was focused on the diagnosis, management, and followup of concurrent gynecologic problems.

RESULTS

At the time of surgery, nineteen women (22%) had previously undergone hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Of the remaining 67 patients, 25 (37%) were found to have gynecologic abnormalities at the time of surgery, 15 (22%) underwent adnexectomy or hysterectomy or both. Forty-two women (63%) had normal internal genitalia. Of the 61 peri- and postmenopausal women, nine underwent bilateral oophorectomy for therapeutic reasons. No prophylactic oophorectomies were performed in any of the patients.

CONCLUSION

Incidental pathologic findings necessitating gynecological procedures are common in patients undergoing surgery for rectal cancer. These findings are frequently suboptimally assessed and managed in the pre-, intra-, and postoperative periods. Colorectal surgeons operating on women with Stage II and III rectal cancer should be cognizant of the high likelihood of identifying incidental gynecologic pathology and be prepared for definitive management of the pathology. The utilization of prophylactic oophorectomy in postmenopausal women undergoing surgery for rectal cancer is currently not optimal; preoperative discussion should address this option.

Avoidance of female genital tract complications in relation to pelvic surgery for cancer

As pelvic surgeons, it is essential that the colorectal surgeon and gynecologist have knowledge of and mutual respect for the areas of expertise that each specialty offers. The surgeon will encounter situations in which knowledge of the gynecologic anatomy is essential if injury is to be avoided during colorectal procedures. Gynecologic oncologists are trained not only to resect gynecologic cancers, but to also manage any complications that may result from cancer therapy or progressive disease. In many communities in which a gynecologic oncologist is not available, the surgical oncologist or colorectal surgeon will be consulted to assist in the management of gynecologic cancers. These surgeons must have the technical prerequisites and detailed knowledge about the mechanisms of spread, patterns of distant and local recurrences, the probability for cure, and the treatment methods to achieve management in the various cancers. We will discuss problems and complications of the female genital tract encountered by the colorectal surgeon during pelvic surgery for both bowel and gynecologic cancers, with an emphasis on prevention. Additionally, issues such as prophylactic oophorectomy and hysterectomy, management of gastrointestinal (GI) tract involvement in gynecologic cancer patients, the approach to peritoneal carcinomatosis, and situations where both the gynecologic and colorectal teams are required will be presented.