Defining Resectability of Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastases: Technical and Oncologic Perspectives

While liver metastases in colorectal cancer patients are common, only a small proportion of patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) are considered resectable at presentation. Current treatment strategies associated with improved survival are limited, and efforts to increase resectability rates among patients with CRLM are warranted. Resectability of CRLM should be defined along three domains: from a medical standpoint, an oncologic standpoint, and finally a technical standpoint. Adherence to a stepwise protocol for preoperative evaluation of patients with CRLM is critical to ensure proper patient selection and to optimize outcomes.