Assessment of hepatic reserve for the indication of hepatic resection: how I do it.

Despite the careful selection of cirrhotic patients with hepatic neoplasms, liver resection for these patients remains associated with greater risk than in patients without underlying liver disease. The most rational indications for resective surgery in patients with hepatic neoplasms and cirrhosis are nonprogressive cirrhosis and good functional reserve. Therefore, evaluation of hepatic reserve is mandatory for hepatectomy candidates.

Cancer of the rectum: comparison of two different surgical approaches.

Surgical treatment of rectal cancer is still controversial as regards the type of operation and the extent of lymphadenectomy. Four hundred and fifty-eight patients with rectal cancer operated on at two different hospitals (206 patients, Surgical Department, S. Martino General Hospital and 252 patients, Surgical Department, Galliera General Hospital) in the decade 1980-1989 were studied.

Colorectal cancer metastases: surgical indications and multimodal approach.

Background/aims: The therapeutic plan to follow in patients affected by hepatic and pulmonary metastases from colorectal cancer is based on prognostic factors and staging.

Methodology: Our experience from January 1980 to January 2002 underlines the effectiveness of combined multimodal therapy in the treatment of advanced metastatic stages. A total of 224 patients with metastases from colorectal cancer have been treated.

[Anterior resection in rectal cancer: the role of lymphadenectomy. Comparison of 2 surgical experiences].

Of great interest today is the debate regarding the benefits and limitations of extended lymphadenectomy in rectal cancer, particularly with regard to patient survival. In the present report we review the experience of two different surgical departments: a total of 458 patients with rectal cancer were operated on in the 1st Surgical Department of S. Martino Hospital, Genoa, and in the 1st Surgical Department of Galliera Hospital, Genoa over the period from 1980 to 1989.