The American journal of medicine
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To describe characteristics, outcomes, and decision making in patients with colorectal cancer metastatic to the liver, and to examine the relationship of doctor-patient communication with patient understanding of prognosis and physician understanding of patients' treatment preferences. ⋯ A majority of patients with colorectal cancer have preferences regarding end of life care. The substantial misunderstanding between patients and their physicians about prognosis and treatment preferences appears not to be improved by direct communication. Future research focused on enhancing the effectiveness of communication between patients and physicians about end of life issues is needed.