A role for hepatic metastasectomy in stage IV melanoma and breast cancer: reestablishing the surgical modality.

Historically, liver-related metastases associated with melanoma or breast cancer have portended a poor prognosis. Many affected patients are not considered for surgical resection based on the extent and multifocal nature of their disease. For this patient population, treatment includes systemic and/or regional therapy, local destruction (ablation/radiation), and embolization. Despite the best therapeutic regimens, prognosis remains poor. Advances in surgical technique and postoperative care have led to a resurgence in the use of metastasectomy, most notably seen in patients with colorectal-related liver metastases. With the potential for therapeutic durability and a small chance of cure, surgical resection may offer improved survival compared to other therapeutic modalities. This review summarizes the existing literature that addresses the topic of metastasectomy in patients with melanoma and breast cancer.