Contemporary multi-modal management of colorectal cancer: Evolving patterns of care in an Irish cohort.

Abstract

827 Background: The last 15 years have seen significant improvements in the outcomes of patients (pts) with CRC. More effective systemic therapy (Rx) and wider use of surgery (Sx) in stage IV disease (Dx) are key drivers of this. We evaluated the impact of intense surveillance in concert with greater use of metastasectomy and improved systemic Rx on CRC outcomes. Methods: This is a retrospective review of the clinical, radiologic and histological records for consecutive pts with CRC who were referred to the multi-disciplinary CRC team from 2003-2016. Pts with stage I/II Dx were included when referred for adjuvant Rx for high-risk features. We recorded pt characteristics, Rx received and outcomes. Survival was assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Results: We identified 600 pts. Median age was 65 (22-97 years). 71.2% (n=427) of pts had left sided CRC and 25.7% (n=154) had right sided Dx. 211 pts (35.2%) had de novo metastatic Dx. 163 of 389 pts (41.9%) with stage II/III disease relapsed. Median Dx-free interval was 16 months. Of 163 relapses, 121 (74%) were detected by radiologic surveillance and 14 (9%) by rise in CEA. Symptomatic relapse occurred in 20 pts (12%). Median overall survival (OS) was significantly improved in pts with relapse detected by CT, PET/CT or CEA rise (54, 53 and 54 months respectively) vs pts with symptomatic relapse (4 months, p<0.001). Metastasectomy rates were higher in pts with image-detected relapse ( p=0.017). Median OS for pts with stage IV CRC who received any Rx was 27 months. Pts with right sided Dx had shorter median OS vs pts with left sided Dx (24 months vs 40 months, p=0.002). 195 pts (52.8%) underwent metastasectomy; median OS was 71 months vs 16 months in those who did not undergo Sx. 84 pts (14%) with stage IV CRC are currently Dx-free after Sx. Median OS was improved with increasing lines of Rx. Survival in pts receiving best supportive care was 5 months vs 17, 25, 34, 38 and 42 months for pts receiving 2, 3, 4 and 5 lines of Rx respectively ( p<0.001). Conclusions: CRC outcomes are improving with effective multi-disciplinary care, close surveillance, sequencing of systemic Rx and judicious use of salvage Sx following relapse. Our findings support long-term benefit for surgical metatastectomy in stage IV CRC.