Colorectal liver metastases - novel assessment tools for resectability (The CoNoR Study): results from an international questionnaire of hepatopancreatobiliary surgeons

Abstract

Aims Hepatic resection offers the only chance of cure for colorectal liver metastases (CLM), yet wide variation in resectability decision-making has been demonstrated. This study aims to evaluate the potential value of two novel assessment tools in aiding resectability decision-making: the LiMAx test (hepatic functional capacity) and HepaT1ca interactive pre-operative MR scan (MR-based volumetry and functional assessment). Methods This study utilises four workstreams: WS1 systematic review, WS2 international HPB interviews, WS3 international HPB online questionnaire, and WS4 online scenario-based survey to assess change in decision-making resulting from the novel tools. The WS3 questionnaire closed in January 2021; participation was increased by professional association endorsement (AUGIS, GBIHPBA, E-AHPBA, AHPBA, CHPBA, IHPBA). Results 197 complete responses were received from 37 countries in 6 continents. The clinical scenario in which HPB surgeons found resectability decisions most challenging was post-chemotherapy downsizing, with >90% of respondents agreeing that the following scenarios also present a challenge: recurrent disease post-liver resection, post-portal vein embolisation, and close proximity to major ducts/vessels. Substantial variation was demonstrated in the percentage future liver remnant at which surgeons preferred further investigation in all scenarios. >90% of respondents felt the novel tools would be potentially useful in decision-making; wide-ranging free-text feedback was also provided. Conclusions The questionnaire lends support to the previously documented variation in resectability decision-making and confirms international HPB community support for investigation of these novel tools. Response analysis has facilitated the appropriate case selection to best assess their potential utility in the WS4 survey, due to launch this spring.