Cytotoxic perfusion for colorectal liver metastases

A clinical trial to assess the value of different perfusion techniques in the management of colorectal liver metastases is presented. The perfusion with 5-fluorouracil was commenced at the time of resection of the primary tumour when palpable liver metastases were found. In terms of survival, no benefit was found with hepatic artery ligation and perfusion and with portal vein perfusion alone compared with the control group. However, the combination of the two improved the survival rate and a possible explanation for this is discussed.