metastasectomy
Pronunciation: meh-TAS-tah-sek-toh-mee
Surgical removal of metastatic tumor deposits, typically performed for oligometastatic disease with curative intent.
Full Definition
Metastasectomy refers to the surgical resection of metastatic lesions, most commonly performed in select patients with renal cell carcinoma who develop limited metastatic disease. This approach is based on the principle that complete removal of all visible metastatic deposits may provide long-term disease control or even cure in carefully selected patients with oligometastatic disease. Common sites for metastasectomy in urologic oncology include lung, liver, brain, and bone metastases. Patient selection criteria typically include good performance status, absence of rapidly progressive disease, and technical feasibility of complete resection. The procedure requires multidisciplinary coordination and careful timing relative to systemic therapy.
Usage
Usage note: Single word, not hyphenated. Distinguish from cytoreductive surgery, which removes bulk disease rather than all visible tumor.
In Context
- "Pulmonary metastasectomy was performed for the solitary lung nodule two years after nephrectomy." — Surgical consultation
- "Complete metastasectomy offers the best chance for long-term survival in oligometastatic renal cell carcinoma." — Treatment guideline