The Clinical Challenge of Liver Metastasis

Abstract

The treatment of liver metastases is generally considered as a palliative approach. A large body of literature refers to the experience gained in colorectal metastases, and surgery remains the cornerstone of treatments with a 40% survival at 5 years. Comparable results are attainable in the treatment of patients with neuroendocrine liver metastases. However, only a small proportion of these patients are suitable candidates for hepatic resection. Furthermore, there is limited data referring to the management of non-colorectal, non-neuroendocrine liver metastases, and most of the reports refer to smaller, retrospective case series with scarce information on treatment carried out during the patient’s journey. In this chapter, we present current perspectives on the management of liver metastases, with a focus on state-of-the-art resection, by drawing on clinical data provided in the medical literature.