Aim: the surgical workup for colorectal cancer peritoneal metastases (CRCPM) is complex and should be managed in specialized centers. Diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms (DTA) have been proposed to balance optimal patients management and correct use of resources. Aim of this study was to establish a consensus on DTA for CRCPM patients in Italy.
Method: a panel of 18 delegated members of centers afferent to Peritoneal Surface Malignancies Onco-team of the Italian Society of Surgical Oncology was established. A list of statements regarding the DTA of patients with CRCPM was prepared according to different activities and decision-making nodes with a defined entry and exit point. Consensus was obtained through RAND UCLA methodology.
Results: two different DTA were defined and approved according to the modality of presentation of CRCPM (synchronous and metachronous). A consensus was also obtained on 17 of the 19 statements related to DTA.
Conclusion: a shared model of DTA is now available for healthcare providers to monitor appropriateness in diagnosis and treatment of patients with isolated peritoneal metastases from CRC