Prognostic factors after pulmonary metastasectomy for colorectal cancer lung metastasis

Abstract

Objective: Surgical resection of lung metastases in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) can provide long-term survival in selected cases. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic factors affecting survival after pulmonary metastasectomy (PM) performed for lung metastases due to CRC. Methods: Data from 70 patients who underwent PM for CRC-related lung metastases at our center between 2007 and 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic data, primary tumor characteristics, number, size, and localization of metastases, time to metastasis, and survival data were evaluated. Results: The 5-year overall survival (OS) rate was 54.8%, with a median OS of 73 months (95% confidence interval: 50.8–95.1). Factors adversely affecting survival included a history of liver metastasis, short (disease-free interval ≤13 months), left colon primary tumor localization, number of metastases ≥2, and metastasis size >4 cm. Conclusion: PM for CRC-related lung metastases can offer a significant survival advantage in selected patients. Specific prognostic factors should be considered when selecting candidates for surgery.