Functional liver volume following repeated liver resection for colorectal liver metastasis

Abstract

Background: Liver resection is increasingly performed for patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). Recurrence is common and the effect of repeated liver resection on liver volumetric regeneration is poorly known. The aim of the present study was to measure functional liver volume (FLV) after repeated liver resection for CRLM. Methods: 89 patients were enrolled. Clinical and pathological outcomes were collected and FLV were measured before the initial liver resection, before and after (>6 months) a second liver resection. Results: Median total FLV before the initial liver resection was 1546 ml (IQR: 1278 - 1912). Median FLV before the second resection was 1389 ml (IQR 1201 - 1823) and 1411 ml (IQR 1174 - 1650) after the second resection. The ratio of FLV after the second resection to preoperative volume was 92% (IQR 81% - 103%, range: 57% - 151%, 10 patients with less than 75%) respectively (P<0.001). Conclusion: The volumetric regeneration after repeated liver resections is almost complete although the inter-individual variation is high.