Incorporation of diagnostic laparoscopy in the management algorithm for patients with peritoneal metastases: A multi‐institutional analysis

INTRODUCTION: Diagnostic laparoscopy (DL), which can predict complete cytoreduction (CC), is often considered unfeasible in patients with Peritoneal metastases (PM) due to a hostile abdomen, prior surgeries, incomplete assessment or risk of port site recurrence. We hypothesized that DL can be successfully incorporated into the management of patients with PM. METHODS: Retrospective review and data analysis of prospectively maintained databases from two high volume institutions was performed between 2007 and 2013. RESULTS: DL was successfully completed in 211/217 (92.6%) patients with PM. The technique for entry was the Hasson in 57%, optical trocar in 38% and Veress needle in 5%. Serosal injury from DL occurred in one patient (0.4%). Predominant histology included appendiceal (40%) and colorectal primaries (34%). Exclusion from cytoreduction by DL occurred in 68 (31.3%). Among those excluded, 7 (of 68, 10.3%) subsequently underwent CRS + HIPEC after receiving systemic chemotherapy. Overall survival (from laparoscopy) for those that underwent CRS + HIPEC at the original operation was 36 versus 12.7 months among those who were excluded by laparoscopy. There were no cases of port site recurrence. CONCLUSION: Diagnostic laparoscopy can be safely incorporated in the management of patients with peritoneal metastases, and can be especially beneficial in excluding patients from attempted incomplete cytoreduction.