Resektable

Resektable is a term used in surgical oncology to describe tumors that can be removed completely by surgery with the aim of achieving clear margins and preserving function. Resectability depends on tumor biology, extent, location, and patient factors. The term is often contrasted with unresectable disease, which cannot be fully removed or would cause unacceptable morbidity, and with borderline resectable disease, where downstaging or multivisceral resection may be needed.

Assessment typically involves imaging (contrast-enhanced CT or MRI, PET-CT), staging, and multidisciplinary review. The goal is an R0 resection, meaning no microscopic residual tumor at margins. Margins, vascular involvement, and the condition of remaining organ function influence whether a resection is feasible. Some tumors are considered resectable only after neoadjuvant therapy to downstage disease; in other cases, staged or combined resections may be planned. The concept is dynamic and may change with new imaging or therapy.

Commonly discussed in liver metastases (such as colorectal cancer), pancreatic cancer, and primary liver cancers, resectability status informs prognosis and treatment planning. Even when resectable, surgery carries significant risk and may be followed by adjuvant therapy. For hepatobiliary tumors, assessment includes future liver remnant volume to ensure sufficient liver function after resection.