Adjuvant internal hepatic radiotherapy using colloidal 32P chromic phosphate in colorectal cancer

The purpose of the study is to investigate the value of adjuvant radiotherapy given in the form of colloidal chromic phosphate 32P suspension administered via portal vein, in preventing the growth of occult metastases in the liver. Twenty two patients (10 patients of treated group with 12 controls) were followed 12 months after operation. There was no significant change in the CBC and liver functions after administration of 32P labeled colloidal chromic phosphate. Although local recurrence rates were very similar in both groups of colorectal cancer (3/12 in the control group and 4/10 in the treated group), liver metastasis rates were quite different: 4/12 in the control group and none (0/10) in the treated group. In conclusion, 32P labeled colloidal chromic phosphate is expected to prevent liver metastases of completely resected colorectal cancer.