Simultaneous versus delayed hepatectomy for synchronous colorectal liver metastases: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

This was a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare outcomes between patients undergoing simultaneous or delayed hepatectomy for synchronous colorectal liver metastases.

Background

The optimal strategy for treating liver disease among patients with resectable synchronous colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) is unclear. Simultaneous resection of primary tumour and liver metastases may improve patient experience by reducing the number of interventions. However, there are concerns of increased morbidity compared to delayed resections.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed using EMBASE, Medline, Cochrane library and Google scholar databases. Meta-analyses were performed using both random-effects and fixed-effect models. Publication and patient selection bias were assessed with funnel plots and sensitivity analysis.

Results

Thirty studies including 5300 patients were identified. There were no statistically significant differences in parameters relating to safety and efficacy between the simultaneous and delayed hepatectomy cohorts. Patients undergoing delayed surgery were more likely to have bilobar disease or undergo major hepatectomy. The average length of hospital stay was six days shorter with simultaneous approach [MD = ?6.27 (95% CI: ?8.20, ?4.34), p < 0.001]. Long term survival was similar for the two approaches [HR = 0.97 (95%CI: 0.88, 1.08), p = 0.601].

Conclusion

In selected patients, simultaneous resection of liver metastases with colorectal resection is associated with shorter hospital stay compared to delayed resections, without adversely affecting perioperative morbidity or long-term survival.