PET-CT accurately predicts the pre-operative characteristics of colorectal hepatic metastases

Abstract Background Since 2002, Positron Emission Tomography (PET-CT) has been considered to be an essential pre-operative investigation in the management of colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) in our institution. This study aimed to compare characteristics of hepatic metastases on PET-CT with post-operative histological findings and pathology of the primary tumour. Methods All patients with CRLM, who underwent surgical intervention from 2002 to 2008, were reviewed. PET-CT and pathology reports of hepatic resections and original colorectal resections were retrieved. Patient demographics, colorectal staging, number of metastases and their maximum diameter from both PET-CT and pathology reports were recorded. Values were expressed as mean (±SD). Results 141 patients were identified. The maximum diameter on PET-CT (4.2 ± 2.6) was similar to pathology (4.8 ± 3.6; p = 0.39), with significant correlation ( r = 0.72, p