Laparoscopic synchronous resection of rectal cancer and liver metastases: A case report and review of the literature.

Introduction And Importance: During the past decade, there are several studies which showed the advantages of the laparoscopic approach for treating colorectal cancer (CRC) or colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRCLM). However, in contrast, there are only a few reports of combined one stage synchronous laparoscopic colorectal and liver metastasis resection, cold one stage minimally invasive approach (MIA).

Case Presentation: Our patient was 51 years old woman. Rectal adenocarcinoma was verified three centimeters from the anal verge. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with rectal protocol modification indicated T1N0MO stage. We decided to do transanal local excision and achieved R0 resection. Half a year after the operation on the control MRI, lymphadenopathy was found along the rectum and possible recurrence of cancer. Also on the MRI was shown solitary, 4.7 × 2.7 × 3.8 cm big metastasis in the IVa/VIII segment of the liver. The patient was shown on a multidisciplinary team and it was decided to do laparoscopic synchronous resection of rectum and liver metastases.

Clinical Discussion: During the last decades many articles with different strategies for treating CRC and liver metastasis were published. Some of them prefered two-stage surgical treatment, like liver first approach which allows initial control of liver metastases, and delivery of preoperative radiotherapy for rectal cancer without the fear that liver metastases will meanwhile progress beyond the possibility of cure. Alternatively, the colon first approach is where the adjuvant chemotherapy is combined with the resection of the primary colorectal tumour with liver resection being undertaken (if at all) as a subsequent operation. By developing surgery, anaesthesia and critical care, the one stage approach for patients with CRC and liver metastasis started to be a reasonable option.

Conclusion: Totally laparoscopic synchronous resection of the colorectal cancer and synchronous colorectal liver metastasis is technically feasible and safe in the hands of the experienced abdominal surgeon. This type of approach offers all the benefits of the laparoscopic minimally invasiveness associated with good oncological outcomes, and it is indicated in well-selected patients. However, the real scientific answer to this question can be given just with randomised control trial which will be a real challenge for endoscopic surgeons in the future.