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A prospective study of continuous hepatic perfusion with implantable pump
Diseases of the Colon and Rectum
|January 1, 1985
Summary
Implantable hepatic infusion pumps offer a promising approach for chemotherapy delivery in patients with colorectal cancer liver metastases. This method demonstrated significant tumor reduction and maintained a good quality of life with minimal toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Oncology
- Medical Oncology
Background:
- Hepatic metastases from colorectal cancer pose a significant treatment challenge.
- Surgical resection is not feasible for all patients with liver metastases.
- Regional chemotherapy delivery aims to improve efficacy and reduce systemic toxicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of implantable hepatic infusion pumps for chemotherapy delivery.
- To assess the impact of regional perfusion chemotherapy on tumor burden and patient quality of life.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 14 patients with hepatic metastases unsuitable for resection.
- Implantation of hepatic infusion pumps for regional chemotherapy.
- Monitoring of Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) levels, tumor size via imaging (CT/liver-spleen scan), and systemic toxicity.
Main Results:
- All 14 patients received regional perfusion chemotherapy post-implantation.
- Median decrease in CEA levels of 49% in patients monitored for six months.
- Over 50% tumor size reduction in 5 patients based on imaging.
- Minimal systemic toxicity and good quality of life observed in all patients.
Conclusions:
- Implantable hepatic infusion pumps are a viable option for chemotherapy delivery in selected patients.
- Regional perfusion chemotherapy shows potential for significant tumor response and improved patient outcomes.
- Further investigation into perfusion chemotherapy is warranted.