In a nutshell
This article looks at results from 8 clinical studies where patients had surgery to remove lung metastases. Using patient data from these studies, the authors identified risk factors which can predict the 5 year survival rate.
Some background
Oligometastasis defines the spread of a primary cancer (in this case colorectal cancer) to a limited number of secondary sites. If there are only a few metastases (secondary tumors) in the lung, it may be possible to perform surgery to remove these tumors. Developing a prognostic model may help identify who will benefit most from invasive surgery to remove lung metastases.
Methods & findings
The bottom line
Overall, this article identifies 5 factors which may influence how long a patient survives following surgery to remove lung metastases from colorectal cancer.
The fine print
Results of this analysis are limited by the fact that the trials included in the analysis had different study methodologies. Patients who underwent surgery to remove lung metastases may also represent a selected group, with fewer associated conditions and in better general health that the overall general population.
What’s next?
Patients and doctors may find this article useful in determining the benefit of surgical resection of lung metastases. The opportunity of such an intervention should be carefully discussed with the treating oncologist.
Published By :
Annals of oncology
Date :
Apr 29, 2012
