Patterns of Resection among Patients with Hepatic-Only Metastatic Colorectal Cancer a Single Institution Experience and Review

Problem statement: Hepatic-only metastasis in colorectal cancer is not a rare clinical finding and can account for 30% of cases. However, only 10-25% of cases are suitable for hepatic resection as part of their treatment pathway. We sought to document our own findings by reviewing patients with hepatic-only disease. Approach: A retrospective analysis was designed to include all patients seen at our institution from 1st January 2000 until 30th June 2010 and information as derived from the patients’ records. Results: Forty-four (44) patients were found, with an average age of 60.8 years and a male preponderance. The majority of patients (approximately 57%) with hepatic-only metastases developed their disease following adjuvant therapy. Better overall survival was seen when a primary tumor had a low grade of histological differentiation and fewer than 3 hepatic lesions appreciated on conventional radiology. Better outcome was seen in patients who underwent hepatic resection. Conclusion: Patients with hepatic-only metastases are not uncommon within our institution. Hepatic resection afforded better outcome and compares favorably with published literature.