Comprehensive impact of multidisciplinary team care in colorectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Angelica Abigael; David Miller; Sketsa Nada Alfainsana

doi:10.22146/inajbcs.v57i3.Suplement.24273

Angelica Abigael Rumah Sakit Umum Santa Maria Cilacap, Kabupaten Cilacap, Indonesia
David Miller Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah Kardinah, Kota Tegal, Indonesia
Sketsa Nada Alfainsana Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah Matraman, Kota Jakarta Timur, Indonesia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.22146/inajbcs.v57i3.Suplement.24273

Keywords: multidisciplinary team, colorectal cancer, survival, outcomes

Abstract

Multidisciplinary team (MDT) care is increasingly integrated into cancer management. However, in colorectal cancer (CRC), the overall impact of MDT implementation has not yet been fully synthesized across diverse outcomes. This study evaluated the impact of MDT care on the outcomes of CRC patients. This systematic review and meta-analysis were registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251102838). Eligible studies reporting the impacts of MDT care in CRC were analyzed. Among 2,497 records, 54 studies were included in the qualitative review and 23 in the quantitative review, comprising 81,927 patients with CRC. Various outcomes were assessed, including treatment, survival, diagnostics, clinical decision-making, pathology, time, cost, and patient experience. MDT care improved treatment delivery, diagnostic accuracy, and pathology quality. MDT care also influenced clinical decision-making by altering management plans. Time to treatment varied across studies. Additionally, MDT care contributed to better clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. MDT care in CRC was associated with improved outcomes, in which meta-analysis showed a significant improvement in overall survival (OS) (HR = 0.75, 95% CI 0.61–0.92), including in stage IV CRC (HR = 0.73, 95% CI 0.57–0.94), and mortality rate was significantly reduced (HR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.47–0.75). A favorable trend for disease-free survival (DFS) was observed (HR = 0.74, 95% CI 0.53–1.01), although it did not reach statistical significance. This study highlights the benefits of MDT care in patients with CRC. MDT care supports individualized, guideline-based management and overall quality improvement. Although some treatment delays may occur, the long-term benefits of MDT care outweigh these. These findings highlight the key role of MDT care in CRC management. Wider adoption of MDT care, including in Indonesia, may further standardize care and improve global CRC outcomes.