Prognostic significance of the number of tumors and aggressive surgical approach in colorectal cancer hepatic metastasis

BACKGROUND Although liver resection (LR) for colorectal cancer (CRC) hepatic metastasis is the best strategy to improve patient outcomes, there are considerable concerns regarding the recurrence of CRC after LR. In this study, we investigated the prognostic indicators associated with CRC recurrence after LR for hepatic metastasis. METHODS This is a retrospective review of patients who underwent curative LR for CRC hepatic metastasis between January 2008 and December 2012. The clinicopathological features and outcome parameters affecting prognosis were analyzed. RESULTS A total of 332 LRs with curative intent were performed in 278 patients, of whom 168 (60.4%) experienced CRC recurrence after the first LR, and 206 of the 332 LRs (62.0%) developed CRC recurrence. A preoperative serum carcinoembryonic antigen level greater than 100 ng/mL and four or more metastatic tumor nodules were independent prognostic factors for CRC recurrence after LR. The disease-free survival rate after LR was significantly associated with the number of metastatic nodules. The patients who underwent surgical resection for recurrent CRC had favorable outcomes, with a five-year overall survival rate of 65.2%. CONCLUSION The number of metastatic tumors significantly affects the outcomes of patients who undergo LR for CRC hepatic metastasis, indicating that a novel therapeutic strategy for patients at high risk may be required. However, favorable long-term outcomes are achievable through aggressive treatment with surgical resection of the recurrent CRC.