Definition:
Metastasectomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of metastatic tumors—cancerous growths that have spread from a primary tumor to a different part of the body.
Overview:
Metastasectomy is performed with curative or palliative intent, depending on the patient's condition and the extent of disease. It is most commonly considered in cases where metastases are limited in number and location, and where complete resection is feasible. This procedure is frequently applied in cancers such as colorectal cancer with liver or lung metastases, renal cell carcinoma, and sarcomas, among others. The goal is to improve survival rates or quality of life by removing isolated sites of cancer spread after thorough evaluation, including imaging and staging.
Etymology/Origin:
The term "metastasectomy" is derived from the Greek word "metastasis," meaning "a change" or "removal," used medically to describe the spread of disease, particularly cancer, from one organ to another; and the suffix "-ectomy," from Greek "ektomē," meaning "excision" or "removal." Thus, metastasectomy literally translates to "excision of a metastasis."
Characteristics:
Metastasectomy typically involves preoperative assessment via imaging (e.g., CT, MRI, PET scans) to confirm the extent and resectability of metastases. Surgical approaches vary based on the organ involved—common sites include the liver, lungs, brain, and bones. The procedure may be performed using open, laparoscopic, or robotic techniques. Patient selection is critical, considering factors such as performance status, disease-free interval, and control of the primary tumor. In select cases, metastasectomy has been shown in clinical studies to prolong survival, especially when combined with systemic therapies.
Related Topics:
- Metastasis
- Oncologic surgery
- Cancer staging
- Liver resection
- Pulmonary metastasectomy
- Oligometastatic disease
- Surgical oncology