Clinician opinion on the management of patients with hepatic colorectal metastases

Background and Aims: Clinical practice is determined by many different factors, but with the advent of evidence-based medicine, there may be a tendency to concentrate upon the scientific facts when decision-making rather than focusing on the patient. Furthermore, individual clinician opinion or bias may potentially influence patient management. This study outlines clinician opinion with regard to management of patients with hepatic colorectal metastases, and compares it to present practice in the Sydney metropolitan area. Methods: Clinician opinion was assessed by using a questionnaire and compared to results from a prospective multicenter study looking at patterns of care of patients with hepatic colorectal metastases. Results: Clinicians participating in the present study had a good knowledge of the current evidence concerning hepatic colorectal metastases and its treatment. However, there was a discrepancy between clinician knowledge that matched scientific evidence and actual clinical practice. Conclusions: This study suggests that clinician bias/opinion does influence patterns of care for patients with hepatic colorectal metastases.