Surgical management of liver metastases from colorectal cancer, advances and controversies

Authors

Keywords:

colorectal cancer; liver metastases;lLiver surgery; liver resection; perioperative chemotherapy; laparoscopic surgery; robotic surgery

Abstract

Introduction: Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Liver metastasis is the most frequent form of spread, which significantly impacts the prognosis of these patients. Advances in surgical techniques and systemic treatment have modified the therapeutic approach to this disease.
Objective: To present the current advances and controversies in the surgical management of liver metastases from colorectal cancer.
Methods: A review of the scientific literature was conducted using electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Keywords in Spanish and English were used, and original articles, reviews, and clinical guidelines addressing surgical aspects, perioperative chemotherapy, and local therapies were selected. 
Results: Surgical treatment has evolved toward less invasive procedures, with greater liver preservation and a multidisciplinary approach. Laparoscopic and robotic surgery have shown perioperative benefits without affecting survival. Biological evaluation of the disease has been prioritized, leading to a broadening of the resectability criteria. Controversies persisted regarding surgical margins, the ideal timing of surgery, and the optimal duration of preoperative chemotherapy.
Conclusions: Current surgical management of liver metastases from colorectal cancer is highly specialized and dynamic. The integration of new techniques and multidisciplinary teamwork have improved oncological outcomes and quality of life. Individualized decision-making and clinical research will be key to resolving existing controversies.

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Author Biographies

Roberto Lázaro Blanco Sosa, Calixto García General University Hospital. University of Medical Sciences of Havana. Havana, Cuba

First-Degree Specialist in General Surgery. Master in Bioethics

Jose Antonio Copo de Armas, Calixto García General University Hospital. University of Medical Sciences of Havana. Havana, Cuba

First-Degree Specialist in General Surgery. Instructor Professor      

Lenyn Daniel Montes Sevilla, Autonomous University of Nayarit, Nayarit, Mexico

Specialist in Preventive Medicine and Surgery

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2026-08-17

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Blanco Sosa RL, Copo de Armas JA, Montes Sevilla LD. Surgical management of liver metastases from colorectal cancer, advances and controversies . Acta Méd Centro [Internet]. 2026 Aug. 17 [cited 2026 Aug. 29];20:e2318. Available from: https://revactamedicacentro.sld.cu/index.php/amc/article/view/2318

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Vol. 20 (2026): PUBLICACIÓN CONTINUA

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Copyright (c) 2026 Roberto Lázaro Blanco Sosa, Jose Antonio Copo de Armas, Lenyn Daniel Montes Sevilla

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