Regional Node Dissection Research Articles

A case of successful conversion surgery for unresectable gallbladder cancer treated with durvalumab in combination with gemcitabine plus cisplatin.

We report a rare case of a patient with initially unresectable gallbladder cancer who underwent conversion surgery with durvalumab in combination with gemcitabine plus cisplatin and achieved an R0 resection. A 68year-old woman was found to have gallbladder cancer and multiple enlarged lymph nodes around the suprapancreatic rim and hepatic hilum invading the proper hepatic artery on computed tomography. The diagnosis was cT3cN2cM0, cStage IVB. After eight cycles of durvalumab in combination with gemcitabine plus cisplatin, all tumor markers became negative, and lymph node invasion of the hepatic artery disappeared. The patient underwent conversion surgery with gallbladder bed resection and regional lymph node dissection. There was no need for hepatic artery reconstruction. Pathology revealed ypT2aypN0ycM0, ypStage IIA, and radical resection was considered. Immunostaining of tissue collected at the time of endoscopic ultrasound-guided tissue acquisition revealed less than 1% programmed death ligand-1 expression. The patient continued adjuvant chemotherapy with single-agent durvalumab every 4weeks and maintained a relapse-free survival of 8months postoperatively. The utility of durvalumab in combination with gemcitabine plus cisplatin in unresectable gallbladder cancer independent of programmed death ligand-1 expression has been confirmed and may be an important option in future multimodal treatment, including conversion surgery.

400. MODIFICATION OF THE LESSER CURVATURE INCISION ENHANCES GASTRIC CONDUIT BLOOD FLOW AND DECREASE ANASTOMOTIC LEAKAGE RISK AFTER ESOPHAGECTOMY

Abstract Background We conducted this study to investigate the effectiveness of a modified incision line on the lesser curvature for gastric conduit formation during esophagectomy in enhancing the perfusion of the gastric conduit, as determined by indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging, and reducing the incidence of anastomotic leakage. Methods A total of 272 patients who underwent esophagectomy at our institution between June 2014 and August 2022 were enrolled in the study. The patients were divided into two groups in accordance with the type of cutline on the lesser curvature: the Conventional group, consisting of patients operated on until 2018 (Conventional group; n = 141), in which the traditional cutline (5.0 cm from the pylorus in routine) was adopted, and the Current group, consisting of patients operated on from 2019 until date (Current group; n = 131), in which a modified cutline on the lesser curvature was adopted, that allowed preservation of the entire right gastric artery was adopted (hereinafter, modified cutline) was adopted. Gastric conduit perfusion during the surgery was assessed by intraoperative ICG fluorescence imaging, and the clinical outcomes after esophagectomy were also evaluated. Results All patients underwent esophagectomy with regional lymph node dissection and gastric conduit reconstruction via the retrosternal route. The distance from the pylorus to the cutline was significantly longer in the Current group as compared with the Conv group (median: 9.0 cm vs. 5.0 cm, p < 0.001). The blood flow speed in the gastric conduit wall assessed by ICG fluorescence imaging was significantly higher in the Current group than that in the Conventional group (median: 2.81 cm/sec vs. 2.54 cm/sec, p = 0.001). Furthermore, the incidence of anastomotic leakage was significantly lower (p = 0.024) and the hospital stay significantly shorter (p < 0.001) in the Current group as compared with the Conventional group. Logistic regression analysis using the data of the entire cohort identified the blood flow velocity in the gastric conduit wall as the only variable that was significantly (negatively) associated with anastomotic leakage. Conclusions ICG fluorescence imaging is a feasible, reliable method for intraoperative assessment of gastric conduit perfusion. Use of the modified lesser curvature cutline could enhance gastric conduit perfusion, promote blood circulation around the anastomosis and ultimately reduce the risk of anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy.

Laparoscopic Right Hemi-hepatectomy of the Bile Duct-Obstructed Area Guided by Real-Time Fluorescence Imaging.

The regions of the liver with cholestasis caused by biliary tumors or thrombosis can be distinctly identified using indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging.1 The authors' team reported the application of bile-duct obstructed area imaging (BOAI) to assist open hepatectomy for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) combined with intrahepatic bile duct obstruction previously.2 This video is the first report of real-time BOAI-guided three-dimensional (3D) laparoscopic hepatectomy using a 3D-4K fluorescence imaging system. A 65-year-old man was admitted to the authors' institution with clonorchiasis. Preoperative computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) showed an obstruction and diffuse dilation of the right hepatic duct. A 15-min retention of ICG (ICG R15) was performed 5 days before the operation, with a 3.3% result. Preoperative planning involved performing laparoscopic right hemi-hepatectomy with regional lymph node dissection assisted by visualization technology.3 During the procedure, significant fluorescence accumulation in the right liver was shown by fluorescence imaging. With the guidance of real-time BOAI (Fig. 1), the regions of biliary obstruction were precisely resected, and the middle hepatic vein (MHV) was passively and adequately exposed on the cutting plane. Fig. 1 Administration steps for real-time bile duct-obstructed area imaging. A ICG is injected intravenously 3-5 days before operation at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg. B ICG is accumulated in the whole liver within a few minutes after injection. C ICG is selectively absorbed by the liver and excreted into the intestines, whereby it is retained in areas of biliary obstruction RESULTS: The histopathologic diagnosis indicated high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia of the right bile duct tumor without lymph node metastases and clonorchiasis. The duration of the operation was 300 min, with an intraoperative blood loss of 50 ml. No postoperative complications occurred, and the patient was discharged after 7 days. Laparoscopic right hemi-hepatectomy for the bile-duct obstructed area with the guidance of real-time BOAI is feasible and effective.

Appendiceal goblet cell adenocarcinoma newly classified by WHO 5th edition: a case report (a secondary publication)

BackgroundAppendiceal goblet cell adenocarcinoma (AGCA) is a newly proposed cancer type in the 5th edition of the WHO Classification of Tumours in 2019. We experienced this rare form of appendiceal primary neoplasm.Case presentationAn 85-year-old male presented a positive fecal occult blood test. A series of imagings revealed a type 1 tumor, located on the appendiceal orifice. The subsequent biopsy made the diagnosis of signet-ring cell carcinoma. Consequently, he underwent the laparoscopic-assisted ileocecal resection. Initially, the tumor was suspected to be a Goblet cell carcinoid (GCC). There was a discrepancy between the histological and immunostaining findings: the tumor cells exhibited morphological similarities to GCCs, however displayed limited staining upon immunostaining. Ultimately, we concluded that the tumor should be classified as AGCA, by following WHO 5th Edition. AGCA represents a newly categorized subtype of adenocarcinomas. Because of our preoperative suspicion of malignancy, we performed tumor resection with regional lymph node dissection, despite the fact that most appendiceal malignant tumors are typically identified after an appendectomy.ConclusionWe experienced a case that provides valuable insights into the comprehension of AGCA, a recently established pathological entity in the WHO 5th Edition. This article is an acceptable secondary publication of a case report that appeared in Azuma et al. (J Jpn Surg Assoc 83:1103–1108, 2022)

Fifty-five cases of hepatic alveolar echinococcosis combined with lymph node metastasis: A retrospective study.

Lymph node metastasis is a specific type of metastasis in hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (AE). Currently, there is a scarcity of describing the clinical characteristics and lymph node metastasis rules of patients with hepatic AE combined with lymph node metastasis and its mechanism and management are still controversial. Radical hepatectomy combined with regional lymph node dissection is a better treatment. To analyse the clinical features of hepatic AE combined with lymph node metastasis to explore its treatment and efficacy. A total of 623 patients with hepatic AE admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University from 1 January 2012 to 1 January 2022 were retrospectively analysed. Fifty-five patients with combined lymph node metastasis were analysed for their clinical data, diagnosis and treatment methods, follow-up efficacy, and characteristics of lymph node metastasis. Finally, we comparatively analysed the lymph node metastasis rates at different sites. Categorical variables are expressed as frequencies and percentages, and the analysis of difference was performed using the χ 2 test. The Bonferroni method was used for pairwise comparisons when statistical differences existed between multiple categorical variables. A lymph node metastasis rate of 8.8% (55/623) was reported in patients with hepatic AE, with a female predilection (69.1%) and a statistically significant sex difference (χ 2 = 8.018, P = 0.005). Of the 55 patients with lymph node metastasis, 72.7% had a parasite lesion, neighbouring organ invasion, and metastasis stage of P3N1M0 and above, of which 67.3%, 78.2%, and 34.5% of hepatic AE lesions invaded the bile ducts, blood vessels, and distant metastases, respectively. Detection rates of lymph node metastasis of 16.4%, 21.7%, and 34.2% were reported for a preoperative abdominal ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, and computed tomography examinations. All patients were intraoperatively suspected with enlarged lymph nodes and underwent radical hepatectomy combined with regional lymph node dissection. After surgery, a routine pathological examination was conducted on the resected lymph nodes. A total of 106 positive lymph nodes were detected in six groups at various sites, including 51 single-group metastasis cases and four multi-group metastasis cases. When the metastasis rates at different sites were statistically analysed, we observed that the metastasis rate in the para-hepatoduodenal ligament lymph nodes was significantly higher than that of the other sites (χ 2 = 128.089, P = 0.000 < 0.05). No statistical difference was observed in the metastasis rate between the five other groups. Clavien-Dindo grade IIIa complication occurred in 14 cases, which improved after administering symptomatic treatment. Additionally, lymph node dissection-related complications were not observed. Recurrence after 2 years was observed in one patient. Lymph node metastasis is a rare form of metastasis in hepatic AE, which is more frequent in women. Para-hepatoduodenal ligament lymph nodes are commonly observed. Radical hepatectomy combined with regional lymph node dissection is a safe, effective, and feasible treatment for liver AE combined with lymph node metastasis.

A case of early-stage type 3 gastric neuroendocrine tumor in the upper body of the stomach: is endoscopic resection feasible?

Although gastric neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are uncommon compared with gastric carcinomas, the incidence of NETs has been recently increasing. Gastric NETs are classified into three subgroups, and among these, gastrin-independent sporadic type 3 gastric NETs have a poor prognosis because of frequent lymph node or distant metastasis. We experienced a case of an early-stage type 3 gastric NET associated with lymphovascular and submucosal invasion. In a 54year-old woman, esophagogastroduodenoscopy performed during a health screening identified an elevated lesion of the upper body of the stomach. The results of immunohistochemical analyses of endoscopic biopsy specimens obtained from the lesion were positive for chromogranin A and synaptophysin, indicating an NET. Because the patient's serum gastrin level was normal and she had no predisposing conditions for NET development, the tumor was diagnosed as a type 3 gastric NET. The patient underwent local resection of the tumor and regional lymph node dissection. The resected specimen indicated a diagnosis of type 3 gastric NET with invasion into the submucosa and lymphatic duct. This is an extremely rare case of an early-stage type 3 gastric NET. Our discussion provides insight into the pathogenesis and development of these tumors and the appropriate therapeutic strategy.

Clinical value of nano-carbon lymphatic tracer for regional lymph node dissections of rectal cancer after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy.

Regional lymph node (LN) volume decreases after neoadjuvant therapy, requiring a tracer for more accurate detection. Nano-carbon tracer is a third-generation tracer with several advantages, but its use for LN detection after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for middle and low rectal cancer remains unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the effects and safety of anoscope-guided subrectal injections of nano-carbon suspension in this patient population. This study retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 45 patients with middle and low rectal cancer admitted to our institution from March 2019 to March 2022. All patients received preoperative neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy and were divided into nano-carbon injection (n=23; anoscope-guided injections of nano-carbon suspension in the rectal submucosa 2cm above the dentate line 24h preoperatively) and control (n=22; directly underwent surgery) groups. The LN detection and complication rates were compared between the groups. The total and mean numbers of LNs and small LNs and the number of patients with>12 LNs were significantly higher in the nano-carbon injection group than in the control group. The total number of positive LNs and LN metastasis did not differ between the groups, nor did the anastomotic leakage, bleeding, stenosis, and abscess occurrence rates. Anoscope-guided nano-carbon lymphatic tracing increased the LN detection rate, caused less trauma, and resulted in fewer postoperative complications than the direct surgical procedure. Thus, it is an effective, safe, and practical method that may improve dissections and the postoperative pathological staging accuracy.

Subtotal esophagectomy and concurrent reconstruction with free jejunal flap for primary esophageal cancer after pancreatoduodenectomy.

Pancreatoduodenectomy and subtotal esophagectomy are widely considered the most invasive and difficult surgical procedures in gastrointestinal surgery. Subtotal esophagectomy after pancreatoduodenectomy is expected to be extremely difficult due to complicated anatomical changes, and selecting an appropriate intestinal reconstruction method will also be a difficult task. Therefore, perhaps because the method is considered impossible, there have been few reports of subtotal esophagectomy after pancreatoduodenectomy. A 73-year-old man with a history of pancreatoduodenectomy was diagnosed with superficial thoracic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Definitive chemoradiation therapy was recommended at another hospital; however, he visited our department to undergo surgery. We performed the robot-assisted thoracoscopic subtotal esophagectomy. There were some difficulties with the reconstruction: the gastric tube could not be used, the reconstruction was long, and the organs reconstructed in the previous surgery had to be preserved. However, the concurrent reconstruction was achieved with the help of a free jejunal flap and vascular reconstruction. All reconstructions from the previous surgery, including the remnant stomach, were preserved via regional abdominal lymph node dissection. After reconstruction, intravenous indocyanine green showed that circulation in the reconstructed intestines was preserved. On postoperative day 1, no recurrent nerve paralysis was observed during laryngoscopy. The patient could start oral intake smoothly 2weeks after surgery and did not exhibit any postoperative complications related to the reconstruction. The patient was transferred to another hospital on postoperative day 21. Owing to the free jejunal flap interposition method, we safely performed one stage subtotal esophagectomy and concurrent reconstruction, preservation of the remnant stomach, and pancreaticobiliary reconstruction in patients with a history of pancreatoduodenectomy. We believe that this method is acceptable and useful for patients undergoing complicated reconstruction.

Current Aspects of Medical Rehabilitation of Patients with Cancer Related Lymphedema of Extremities: a Narrative Review

INTRODUCTION. Over the past decades, in developed countries and in the Russian Federation, there has been an increase in the number of patients with secondary lymphedema who have undergone surgical treatment with dissection of regional lymph nodes and radiation therapy for various forms of gynecological cancer in women and prostate cancer in men, as well as breast cancer. AIM. Search and analysis of the results of previously published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of the effectiveness of various non-drug rehabilitation methods in patients with lymphedema of the extremities who underwent radical treatment for cancer of various locations. MATERIALS AND METHODS. A search was conducted and studied publications in international scientific peer-reviewed publications (PEDro Database) on medical rehabilitation for cancer treatment-related lymphedema (LSPR) for the period from 1996 to December 2023 using the keywords “lymphedema”, “rehabilitation”. 145 RCTs focused on medical rehabilitation and conservative treatment of LSPR. DISCUSSION. Lifestyle correction and psychosocial interventions are recommended to improve the quality of life of patients. Studies have found that early activation, various physical exercises with a slow increase in loads under the supervision of a physical therapist are safe and help increase endurance, strength and range of motion in a limb with lymphatic edema. The clinical effectiveness of therapeutic exercises in the pool has been proven, manifested in the reduction of edema in patients with LSPR. The effectiveness of compression products with Velcro technology as an alternative to rigid low-stretch bandages in patients with LSPR has been confirmed. The anti-edematous and anti-inflammatory effects of low-intensity laser therapy and magnetic therapy in the rehabilitation of patients with LSLR have been proven. Alternating pneumatic compression (APC) is recommended as an adjuvant treatment in addition to comprehensive decongestant therapy. Preference should be given to the use of technologies of advanced hardware lymphatic drainage methods that imitate manual techniques. CONCLUSION. To improve the physical and socio-psychological functioning of patients with LSPR, an integrated approach is required, including lifestyle changes, psychological correction, compression therapy, modern exercise therapy techniques, and safe physiotherapeutic technologies. Conducted scientific research indicates the high effectiveness of the use of manual and hardware lymphatic drainage techniques, while the use of PPC is more economical and accessible, and does not require the involvement of specialists who know the expensive method of manual lymphatic drainage.

R2* mapping and reduced field-of-view diffusion-weighted imaging for preoperative assessment of nonenlarged lymph node metastasis in rectal cancer.

The aim of the current study is to investigate the diagnostic value of R2* mapping versus reduced field-of-view diffusion-weighted imaging (rDWI) of the primary lesion of rectal cancer for preoperative prediction of nonenlarged lymph node metastasis (NLNM). Eighty-one patients with pathologically confirmed rectal cancer underwent preoperative R2* mapping and rDWI sequences before total mesorectal excisions and accompanying regional lymph node dissections. Two radiologists independently performed whole-tumor measurements of R2* and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) parameters on primary lesions of rectal cancer. Patients were divided into positive (NLNM+) and negative (NLNM-) groups based on their pathological analysis. The tumor location, maximum diameter of the tumor, and maximum short diameter of the lymph node were assessed. R2* and ADC, pT stage, tumor grade, status of mesorectal fascia, and extramural vascular invasion were also studied for their potential relationships with NLNM using multivariate logistic regression analysis. The NLNM+ group had significantly higher R2* (43.56 ± 8.43 vs. 33.87 ± 9.57, p < 0.001) and lower ADC (1.00 ± 0.13 vs. 1.06 ± 0.22, p = 0.036) than the NLNM- group. R2* and ADC were correlated to lymph node metastasis (r = 0.510, p < 0.001 for R2*; r = -0.235, p = 0.035 for ADC). R2* and ADC showed good and moderate diagnostic abilities in the assessment of NLNM status with corresponding area-under-the-curve values of 0.795 and 0.636. R2* provided a significantly better diagnostic performance compared with ADC for the prediction of NLNM status (z = 1.962, p = 0.0498). The multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that R2* was a compelling factor of lymph node metastasis (odds ratio = 56.485, 95% confidence interval: 5.759-554.013; p = 0.001). R2* mapping had significantly higher diagnostic performance than rDWI from the primary tumor of rectal cancer in the prediction of NLNM status.

Curative resection via right hemicolectomy and regional lymph node dissection for colonic adenomatous polyposis of unknown etiology with adenocarcinomas localized in the right side of the colon: a case report

BackgroundAPC and MUTYH are both well-known colorectal polyposis causative genes. However, 30–50% of colorectal adenomatous polyposis cases are classified as colonic adenomatous polyposis of unknown etiology and lack identifiable pathogenic variants. Although guidelines recommend total proctocolectomy for colonic adenomatous polyposis of unknown etiology with over 100 adenomas, evidence is lacking. This study presents a unique case of localized colonic adenomatous polyposis of unknown etiology with multiple adenocarcinomas, treated with hemicolectomy and regional lymph node dissection.Case presentationThe patient was a 72-year-old woman whose colonoscopy revealed numerous polyps and two adenocarcinomas localized in the right side of the colon, with no lesions in the left side. The patient had no family history of polyposis or colorectal cancer. No extracolonic lesions, enlarged lymph nodes, or distant metastases were found. Considering the patient’s age and lesion localization, laparoscopic right hemicolectomy with regional lymph node dissection was performed. Histopathological diagnosis revealed three adenocarcinoma lesions with no lymph node metastasis. The most advanced pathological stage was T2N0M0 Stage I (UICC 8th edition). The patient was alive 5 years postoperatively, without recurrence of cancer or polyposis in the remaining colon and rectum. To diagnose hereditary colorectal cancer/polyposis, a germline multigene panel testing for APC, EPCAM, MBD4, MLH1, MLH3, MSH2, MSH3, MSH6, MUTYH, NTHL1, PMS2, POLD1, POLE, and TP53 was performed using DNA extracted from blood samples: however, no pathogenic variant was detected. Therefore, the patient was diagnosed with colonic adenomatous polyposis of unknown etiology.ConclusionsIn this rare case, colonic adenomatous polyposis of unknown etiology, with numerous adenomatous polyps and multiple adenocarcinomas localized in the right side of the colon, was successfully treated with right hemicolectomy and regional lymph node dissection. Despite genetic analysis, no causative germline variants were identified. Segmental colectomy according to the distribution of polyps might be a curative approach.

Surgical treatment and prognosis analysis of hilar cholangiocarcinoma

Objective: To investigate the surgical treatment effect and prognostic factors of hilar cholangiocarcinoma. Methods: This is an ambispective cohort study. From August 2005 to December 2022,data of 510 patients who diagnosed with hilar cholangiocarcinoma and underwent surgical resection at the Hepatobiliary Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University were retrospectively collected. In the cohort,there were 324 males and 186 females,with an age of (M (IQR)) 63(13)years (range:25 to 85 years). The liver function at admission was Child-Pugh A (343 cases,67.3%) and Child-Pugh B (167 cases,32.7%). Three hundred and seventy-two(72.9%) patients had jaundice symptoms and the median total bilirubin was 126.3(197.6) μmol/L(range: 5.4 to 722.8 μmol/L) at admission. Two hundred and fourty-seven cases (48.4%) were treated with percutaneous transhepatic cholangial drainage or endoscopic nasobiliary drainage before operation. The median bilirubin level in the drainage group decreased from 186.4 μmol/L to 85.5 μmol/L before operation. Multivariate Logistic regression was used to identify the influencing factors for R0 resection,and Cox regression was used to construct multivariate prediction models for overall survival(OS) and disease-free survival(DFS). Results: Among 510 patients who underwent surgical resection,Bismuth-Corlett type Ⅲ-Ⅳ patients accounted for 71.8%,among which 86.1% (315/366) underwent hemi-hepatectomy,while 81.9% (118/144) underwent extrahepatic biliary duct resection alone in Bismuch-Corlett type Ⅰ-Ⅱ patients. The median OS time was 22.8 months, and the OS rates at 1-,3-,5-and 10-year were 72.2%,35.6%,24.8% and 11.0%,respectively. The median DFS time was 15.2 months,and the DFS rates was 66.0%,32.4%,20.9% and 11.0%,respectively. The R0 resection rate was 64.5% (329/510), and the OS rates of patients with R0 resection at 1-,3-,5-and 10-year were 82.5%, 48.6%, 34.4%, 15.2%,respectively. The morbidity of Clavien-Dindo grade Ⅲ-Ⅴ complications was 26.1%(133/510) and the 30-day mortality was 4.3% (22/510). Multivariate Logistic regression indicated that Bismuth-Corlett type Ⅰ-Ⅲ (P=0.009), hemi-hepatectomy and extended resection (P=0.001),T1 and T2 patients without vascular invasion (T2 vs. T1:OR=1.43 (0.61-3.35),P=0.413;T3 vs. T1:OR=2.57 (1.03-6.41), P=0.010;T4 vs. T1, OR=3.77 (1.37-10.38), P<0.01) were more likely to obtain R0 resection. Preoperative bilirubin,Child-Pugh grade,tumor size,surgical margin,T stage,N stage,nerve infiltration and Edmondson grade were independent prognostic factors for OS and DFS of hilar cholangiocarcinoma patients without distant metastasis. Conclusions: Radical surgical resection is necessary to prolong the long-term survival of hilar cholangiocarcinoma patients. Hemi-hepatectomy and extended resection,regional lymph node dissection and combined vascular resection if necessary,can improve R0 resection rate.

Follicular dendritic cell sarcoma arising from the lymph node of the pancreatic head: a case report with literature review.

A 72-year-old man was referred to our hospital for the examination of a pancreatic head mass. Abdominal computed tomography revealed a contrasted 8-cm-diameter tumor extending from the dorsal pancreatic head to the porta hepatis. The preoperative diagnosis was challenging due to the absence of specific imaging findings and the inability to perform a biopsy. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography and diffusion-weighted imaging suggested a malignant tumor originating from the organs surrounding the pancreatic head. Subtotal stomach-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy with regional lymph node dissection was performed, as dissection from the pancreatic head proved unfeasible. Pathological examination identified the tumor as an enlarged lymph node consisting of pleomorphic large cells forming clusters, positive for follicular dendritic cell markers cluster of differentiation (CD) 21 and CD23. No evidence of tumor capsule infiltration, other organ infiltration, or metastasis to other lymph nodes was observed. The final diagnosis was nodal follicular dendritic cell sarcoma (FDCS) originating from the pancreatic head lymph nodes. No recurrence occurred at 3years postoperatively with no postoperative treatment. Intraperitoneal nodal FDCS is extremely rare, and occasionally, it can lead to postoperative recurrence and progression. It is crucial to differentiate neoplastic lymph node enlargement around the pancreatic head from nodal FDCS.

Abstract 2394: Significance of regional lymph node dissection in patients with clear cell sarcoma and epithelioid sarcoma

Abstract Objective Clear cell sarcoma (CCS) and epithelioid sarcoma (ES) are common as soft-tissue sarcoma subtypes causing lymph node metastasis (LNM), but the role of regional lymph node dissection is still unclear especially in these patients without imaging evidence of LNM. Here we retrospectively investigated the significance of lymph node dissection for patients with CCS and ES. Methods Forty-one patients (CCS: 13, ES: 28) with no distant metastasis other than in the regional lymph nodes were enrolled in this study. Of these 41 patients, those without LNM on imaging findings were categorized into two groups: "with dissection (WD)" group and "no dissection (ND)" group, respectively. Overall survival (OS), lymph node metastatic-free survival (LNMFS), progression-free survival (PFS), and post-operative LNM rate were compared between two groups. Results There were 26 patients who had undergone regional lymph node dissection and 15 patients who had not undergone regional lymph node dissection (ND group). Histopathological examination revealed metastasis to the lymph nodes in 9 of the 26 patients (38.5%). 9 patients were suspected of having LNM based on preoperative imaging findings such as CT or FDG PET/CT. Among the remaining 17 patients (WD group) in whom LNM was not suspected based on preoperative imaging findings, 6 patients (35.3%) had LNM. OS (p=0.03), LNMFS (p&amp;lt;0.01), and PFS (p&amp;lt;0.01) were all significantly better in the WD group. The postoperative LNM rate was significantly lower in the WD group than in the ND group (p=0.03), and there were no significant differences in OS, LNMFS, or PFS between the CCS and ES groups in terms of histological type. Discussion Even in cases where LNM was not suspected on preoperative imaging, LNM was present in more than 30% of cases. The possibility of regional LNM should be borne in mind in soft-tissue sarcomas, which frequently present with LNM, regardless of imaging findings. We also suggested that simultaneous dissection of the regional lymph nodes at the time of resection of the primary tumor improves the prognosis. Although ES and CCS are ultra-rare sarcomas, further validation with the accumulation of case series is desirable. Citation Format: Toshiyuki Takemori, Eisuke Kobayashi, Shintaro Iwata, Koichi Ogura, Shuhei Osaki, Suguru Fukushima, Akira Kawai. Significance of regional lymph node dissection in patients with clear cell sarcoma and epithelioid sarcoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 2394.

Accuracy of sentinel node mapping in Marjolin ulcer: Comparison of three different injection techniques

BackgroundMarjolin ulcer is a specific type of squamous cell cancer that can benefit from the use of lymphoscintigraphy.The purpose of this study was to evaluate 3 different injection techniques for sentinel node biopsy in patients with Marjolin ulcer. MethodsForty-eight patients with Marjolin ulcer (27 male and 21 female) ranging in age from 24 to 85 years were included in our study. Intratumoral (IT), peritumoral (PT) and periscar (PS) tissue injections of radiotracer were done in 9, 10, and 29 patients respectively. Injections were done 2–4 h before surgery. Lymphoscintigraphy was done for mapping the lymphatic drainage. During surgery, lymphatic mapping and sentinel node biopsy was performed using a handheld gamma probe. After harvesting sentinel nodes, regional lymph node dissection was done. ResultSentinel node detection rate was higher in the PS group as compared to the IT and PT groups (89.6% vs. 50% and 22.2%) respectively. False negative rate was 0%. Pathologically involved sentinel nodes were detected in 16% of the included patients of our study which led to management change. None of the patients with pathologically non-involved sentinel nodes developed regional lymph node recurrence. ConclusionLymphatic mapping and sentinel node biopsy is feasible in Marjolin ulcer with high detection rate and low false negative cases which by detection of regional lymph node involvement can potentially change the management of patients. Injection site may be an important factor influencing the success of the procedure and injection of the mapping material in the peri-scar normal skin proximal to the lesion is the best technique.

Lymphatic drainage of sinonasal malignancies and the role of sentinel node biopsies

BackgroundLocoregional recurrence is a critical factor in the prognosis of sinonasal malignancies. Due to the rarity of these tumours, as well as the heterogeneity of histologies and anatomical subsites, there is little evidence regarding the rate and location of regional metastases in sinonasal malignancies. Elective regional lymph node dissection in the therapy of sinonasal malignancies has become controversial. On the one hand, elective regional lymph node dissection is considered to be an overtreatment in the cN0 cases. On the other hand, undetected occult lymphatic metastases are associated with a poor prognosis. In this study, we discuss the role of sentinel lymph node biopsy as a minimally invasive procedure in the treatment of sinonasal malignancies based on our two years of practical experience and the currently available data.ResultsThis is a descriptive, monocentric, retrospective study, including 20 cases of cN0 malignant sinonasal neoplasm, that underwent a surgical therapy between 2020 and 2022. The following aspects were investigated: tumour entity, localisation of the primary tumour, tumoral stage, localisation of the sentinel lymph nodes, and postoperative complications. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most frequently diagnosed tumour entity (50%), followed by adenocarcinoma (20%) and malignant melanoma (15%), adenoid cystic carcinoma and mucoepidermoid carcinoma. Sentinel lymph nodes were most frequently found in the ipsilateral neck region I (45%), followed by the ipsilateral neck region II (40%). In all cases, the removed lymph nodes were free of malignancy. There were no postoperative complications due to lymph node biopsy. There were no recurrences during the study period.ConclusionSentinel node biopsy could add more safety to the management of cN0 sinonasal malignancies due to its low morbidity. Whether SNB could provide an alternative to elective neck dissection in the management of SNM should be investigated in further studies.

Endoscopic resection and laparoscopic lymph node dissection for early gastric cancer beyond conventional endoscopic treatment indications: a 10-year outcome study.

Endoscopic full-thickness gastric resection (EFTGR) with laparoscopic regional lymph node dissection (LLND) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) with LLND have been investigated as treatment options for early gastric cancer beyond the absolute indications for ESD. However, comparative studies on the long-term outcomes of these procedures are lacking. This study aimed to analyze and compare the 10-year outcomes of both procedures in a real clinical setting. Between January 2009 and December 2013, 28 and 37 patients diagnosed with EGC beyond the absolute indications for ESD were treated with EFTGR with LLND and ESD with LLND, respectively. In both procedures, the dye was injected into the tumor. However, after injection and LLND, EFTGR was performed immediately in the EFTGR with LLND group, whereas LLND was followed by ESD in the ESD with LLND group. The primary endpoint was the 10-year survival rate. The EFTGR with LLND group had one case of local recurrence (3.6%) and mortality (3.6%) each, while the ESD with LLND group had none (0.0% for both); however, the differences were not statistically significant (P = 0.247 for each). Furthermore, there was no significant difference in complications such as ischemia and anastomosis leakage between the groups (P = 0.247). When the procedures were properly applied, EFTGR with LLND and ESD with LLND did not increase the 10-year mortality in patients with EGC beyond the absolute ESD indications compared with conventional radical gastrectomy.

Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the parotid and submandibular glands in children and young adults: A population-based study.

This study aims to analyze the behavior and treatment of adenoid cystic carcinoma (AdCC) in the pediatric and young adult population and to identify factors affecting overall survival (OS). The study analyzed salivary gland malignancies in patients aged 0-21 with AdCC histology using the National Cancer Database from 2004 to 2018. A total of 72 patients (59.7% parotid, 36.1% submandibular, 1.4% sublingual, 2.8% unspecified) met criteria. Median age was 18years [range: 0-21]. High-grade dysplasia was present in 67% of cases. Therapy consisted of primary surgery for all cases, regional lymph node dissection (LND) (74%), radiotherapy (71%), chemotherapy (8%), and chemoradiation (7%). The 5-year OS rate was 93.2% [95% confidence interval (CI): 86.9%-99.9%], respectively. Patients who underwent associated LND had improved OS (p=.0083, log-rank test) with a 5-year OS at 82.4% [95% CI: 66.1%-100%] versus 97.6% [95% CI: 93.0%-100%]. A significant difference in OS was found with unfavorable outcomes after positive marginal status: 5-year OS 84.1% [95% CI: 71.0%-99.7%] versus 100% [95% CI: 100%]; p<.001. Adjuvant therapy did not seem to impact the outcome. This study confirms that AdCC in children and young adults has an overall good prognosis despite frequent high grade. It suggests that cervical LND may be of importance, but the value of systematic adjuvant therapy is not confirmed. These findings emphasize the importance and relevance of population-based studies in shaping clinical practice and informing the design of future prospective investigations.

Pathological complete response following neoadjuvant chemotherapy for locally advanced intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

BackgroundIntrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is the second most common primary liver cancer. Cases when found are often advanced with vascular invasion, and radical resection is often difficult. Despite curative resection, the postoperative recurrence rate of patients with histological lymph node metastasis is high, and their prognosis is poor. Therefore, there is an urgent need to establish multidisciplinary treatment that combines chemotherapy and surgical resection. The efficacy of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) for locally advanced ICC is unclear. In this report, a case of locally advanced ICC in which pathological complete response (pCR) was achieved after NAC is described.Case presentationA 79-year-old woman was admitted to a local hospital with appetite loss. Computed tomography showed a 100 × 90 mm low-contrast tumor in the left hepatic lobe and segment 1 with invasion to the inferior vena cava (IVC), and several lymph nodes along the left gastric artery and lesser curvature were enlarged. Therefore, she was treated with a combined chemotherapy regimen of gemcitabine and cisplatin. After four courses, the tumor size decreased to 30 × 60 mm without invasion to the IVC. Left hepatectomy extending to segment 1 with bile duct resection combined with middle hepatic vein resection (H1234-B-MHV), dissection of regional lymph nodes and pyloroplasty were performed. After radical resection, pCR was achieved. She is alive with no evidence of disease, 2 years after surgery.ConclusionsIn this case, a patient with locally advanced ICC achieved pCR to NAC. NAC may be effective for ICC. Patients who achieve pCR may have a better prognosis.

WUTSUP-02-II-Neo-Dis-Tis: Investigating the efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant tislelizumab plus disitamab vedotin with adjuvant tislelizumab in upper urinary tract carcinoma—A phase II multi-center study.

TPS718 Background: Upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) and urothelial bladder cancer (UBC) are frequently referred to as “disparate twins” despite their common tissue origin. They exhibit varying biological behaviors, prognostic outcomes, and responses to treatment. It is crucial to conduct dedicated clinical trials for UTUC as a separate entity rather than relying solely on UBC study results, giving that UTUC lags in evidence quantity and quality compared to UBC. Despite the superior outcomes of neoadjuvant treatment over adjuvant treatment in UBC trials, the currently available evidence for neoadjuvant therapy of UTUC remains limited in quantity and diversity, as the largest trial, POUT, is focused on adjuvant therapy. Additionally, the limited number of neoadjuvant trials for UTUC primarily utilize chemotherapy-based regimens, with little investigation into combination therapies. Of note, UTUC patients frequently have impaired renal functions, making a chemotherapy-independent approach a desirable alternative. On the other hand, given the short duration of neoadjuvant therapy, a combination therapy strategy appears to be necessary, especially with the increasing interest in immune therapy maintenance after surgery. Tislelizumab has demonstrated efficacy in patients with advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Disitamab Vedotin, a HER2-targeting antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), has demonstrated robust clinical efficacy in metastatic urothelial carcinoma patients with HER2 2+ or 3+ expression. Disitamab Vedotin in combination with PD-1 immunotherapy has shown remarkable results in locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma, regardless of HER2 expression, indicative of a synergistic effect between ADC and PD-1 immunotherapy. In this study, we aim to conduct a prospective phase II trial to investigate the efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant tislelizumab plus Disitamab Vedotin followed by adjuvant tislelizumab in patients with high-risk UTUC. Methods: This multi-center phase II trial aims to enroll 45 patients with histologically confirmed UTUC at clinical stage cT2-4N0M0 or cT1-4N1-2M0. Neoadjuvant therapy includes 4 cycles of Tislelizumab (200mg for each 3-week cycle) in combination with Disitamab Vedotin (2.0mg/kg for each 3-week cycle). Radical nephroureterectomy (including bladder cuff resection and regional lymph node dissection if indicated) will be performed if there is no obvious contraindication within 3-6 weeks after the final neoadjuvant therapy administration. Postoperative adjuvant treatment with 8 cycles of tislelizumab will be provided. The primary endpoint is pathological complete response rate. Secondary endpoints include overall survival, local recurrence free survival, distant metastasis free survival, FACT–G. Clinical trial information: ChiCTR2300067836 .