Laparoscopic Hepatectomy for Colorectal Liver Metastases: The Current State of the Art

Hepatectomy together with systemic chemotherapy is the treatment of choice for patients with liver-limited colorectal metastases. Although the open approach to hepatectomy remains a standard option, there is increasing recognition of the potential advantages of laparoscopic hepatectomy. Laparoscopic approaches have become standardized and are the subject of two international consensus conferences. Major laparoscopic hepatectomy is currently being evaluated in international multi-center trials. The available data to date would indicate that there is oncological equivalence between open and laparoscopic approaches but that the latter is associated with less post-operative pain, shorter hospital stay and an earlier recovery of full function. Surgeons embarking on this approach must be experienced both in the techniques of advanced liver surgery and in laparoscopic surgery.