[Regional chemotherapy of liver metastases]

Intraarterial regional chemotherapy of the liver by implantable pumps and port-systems is currently applied predominantly in patients with isolated colorectal metastases. Therapy and evaluation of results must consider the following factors: natural course of the disease; classification of tumor extent in the liver; evidence of isolated liver metastases; vascular anatomy, optimal catheter-implantation technique, complete perfusion; choice of drugs and dosage; technical complications; local toxicity, extra-hepatic recurrence, definition of therapeutic success. Our own experiences with regional chemotherapy in 145 patients with metastases to the liver and in 9 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma are reported. Using different therapeutic modalities we found a significantly enlarged response rate and at this time a true prolongation of life of about 8 months. Further prospective studies are necessary. The use of regional chemotherapy for liver metastases seems to be recommended at this time only under study conditions.