Resection Margin and Survival in 2368 Patients Undergoing Hepatic Resection for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

Abstract

Resection margin width is independently associated with OS. Wide margins should be attempted whenever possible. However, resection should not be precluded if narrow margins are anticipated, as submillimeter margin clearance is associated with improved survival. The prolonged OS observed with submillimeter margins is likely a microscopic surrogate for the biologic behavior of a tumor rather than the result of surgical technique.