Introduction: Following curative intent surgery (CIS) for colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM), repeat CIS for recurrence improves survival. The factors associated with repeat CIS are not widely reported.
Methods: An institutional database (January 2002-December 2012) was reviewed to evaluate factors influencing repeat CIS.
Results: One hundred sixty-three patients with colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) underwent successful CIS. Median follow-up and disease-free interval (DFI) was 33 and 16 months, respectively. After initial CIS, 102 patients (63%) recurred. Fifty-three patients (52%) underwent a repeat CIS. After repeat CIS, 33 patients (62%) developed a second recurrence, and in 13 patients (39%), a third CIS was possible. DFI decreased following initial CIS (first CIS vs. second CIS vs. third CIS [20 vs. 15 vs. 8.5 months], p < 0.001). Overall 5-year survival in all patients was 55%; patients who recurred had a 5-year survival of 67% if they underwent repeat CIS vs. 7.8% if they were managed palliatively. Second CIS was less likely with a postoperative complication, other/multifocal recurrence, or DFI <12 months.
Conclusion: Despite high recurrence and decreasing DFI, repeat CIS provides a survival benefit. Postoperative complications, DFI, number, and pattern of recurrence influence the decision to pursue repeat CIS.