Liver resection for metastatic (colorectal carcinoma) tumors is often followed by a significant incidence of tumor recurrence. Cellular and molecular changes resulting from hepatectomy and the subsequent liver regeneration process may influence the kinetics of tumor growth and contribute to recurrence. Clinical and experimental evidence suggests that factors involved in liver regeneration may also stimulate the growth of occult tumors and the reactivation of dormant micrometastases. An understanding of the underlying changes may enable alternative strategies to minimize tumor recurrence and improve patient survival after hepatectomy.