Results of surgical treatment for isolated recurrent ovarian cancer involving the liver

Abstract

Summary. Objective: to investigate the effectiveness and factors that can influence on surgical treatment of isolated recurrent ovarian cancer involving the liver. Materials and methods: A retrospective analysis of medical documentation of ovarian cancer patients, who underwent surgical removal of the recurrent tumors localized in the liver, performed in State Establishment «Zaitsev V.T. Institute of General and Emergency Surgery of the Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine» from January 2001 to December 2010 (n = 29). Results. Overall survival increased significantly while disease-free interval (DFI) increase (after primary cytoreduction) and optimal secondary cytoreduction is achieved. Median overall survival for DFI 24 months – 61 months (p <0,05). Performance of optimal secondary cytoreduction leads to increase of overall survival from 10 to 44 months (p <0,05). Median overall survival after secondary surgery was 41 months (95% CI; 6-62 months), median DFI – 26 months (95% CI; 3-42 months); 5-year survival rate was 37%. Serum CA-125, tumor size and number of lesions did not correlate with survival rates. Conclusions. Recurrent ovarian cancer involving the liver should not be regarded solely as a result of hematogenous dissemination. Taking into account the biological characteristics of ovarian cancer, it can be the result of implantation spread of disease. Liver resection – aggressive, but effective, safe and affordable intervention. Indications should be individualized for patients with recurrent ovarian cancer.