CR29P LYMPH NODE YIELD IN COLORECTAL CANCER RESECTIONS

Abstract

Purpose: This study was designed to determine whether blue dye injections in the resected specimen increased lymph node yield and ease of identification of lymph nodes in the resected specimen.Methods: A prospective randomized control trial was performed on all colorectal cancer patients undergoing surgery at the Alfred Hospital for the calendar year of 2008. Specimens were randomised to either receiving or not receiving patent blue V dye. All specimens were pathologically examined in a standardised manner. The number of lymph nodes identified in the specimen was recorded, both containing and not containing blue dye. All specimens were soaked in Carnoy's solution, and re‐examined for additional lymph nodes.Results: 67 patients randomized, 33 patients received blue dye and 34 patients received no blue dye. In the Blue dye group the median number of blue nodes identified was 4, and the median number of all nodes pre Carnoy's was 11. In the blue dye group the median combined post Carnoy's lymph node count was 15. In the non‐blue dye group the median number of lymph nodes pre Carnoy's was 12, the median combined post Carnoy's lymph node count was 16. The percentage of specimens having less than 12 nodes was 37% in the blue dye group and 27% in the non‐blue dye group.Conclusion: The injection of patent blue dye did not increase the lymph node count or the percentage of specimens has less than 12 lymph nodes.