Hepatic resection for noncolorectal nonneuroendocrine metastases.

The experience with hepatic resection for metastatic lesions, exclusive of colorectal and neuroendocrine tumors, is anecdotal. The reduction in operative mortality leads to a reconsideration of the subject. A review of the literature suggests a selective approach. There is little improvement to be anticipated for resection of metastases from tumors of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or pancreas. Resection of metastases from primary renal cell carcinoma, Wilms' tumor, and adrenocortical carcinoma is indicated. There is little to recommend resection of metastases from gynecologic or breast primary carcinomas. Resection as palliation is to be considered for all lesions, particularly bulky metastases from ocular melanomas.