Intra-Arterial Hepatic Chemotherapy for Metastatic Liver from Colo-Rectal Carcinoma Origin

Loco-regional intra-arterial chemotherapy of hepatic metastases from colo-rectal cancer is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments in this clinical situation. In our experience of 58 cases treated during 3 years, in a non randomized study by either: 1) discontinuous perfusion of 5FU (using a subcutaneous access) or 2) by continuous infusion of FUDR (using an implantable pump), we observed an objective response rate of 52 % and 53 % with a 1 year survival of 73 % and 90 %, respectively. This technique, however, is limited in its application by loco-regional complications and in its long term efficacy by the development of extra-hepatic metastases. The proof of its efficacy in terms of survival prolongation, is being studied within the framework of a prospective randomized trial with a control group.