Extended Lymph Node Dissection Research Articles

Gastric Cancer Surgery: Balancing Oncological Efficacy against Postoperative Morbidity and Function Detriment.

Significant progress has been made in the surgical management of gastric cancer over the years, and previous discrepancies in surgical practice between different parts of the world have gradually lessened. A transition from the earlier period of progressively more extensive surgery to the current trend of a more tailored and evidence-based approach is clear. Prophylactic resection of adjacent anatomical structures or neighboring organs and extensive lymph node dissections that were once assumed to increase the chances of long-term survival are now performed selectively. Laparoscopic gastrectomy has been widely adopted and its indications have steadily expanded, from early cancers located in the distal part of the stomach, to locally advanced tumors where total gastrectomy is required. In parallel, function-preserving surgery has also evolved and now constitutes a valid option for early gastric cancer. Pylorus-preserving and proximal gastrectomy have improved the postoperative quality of life of patients, and sentinel node navigation surgery is being explored as the next step in the process of further refining the minimally invasive concept. Moreover, innovative techniques such as indocyanine green fluorescence imaging and robot-assisted gastrectomy are being introduced in clinical practice. These technologies hold promise for enhancing surgical precision, ultimately improving the oncological and functional outcomes.

Emergency resection for stage II colon cancer: patterns of recurrence and prognostic factors

Background: The prognosis in colon cancer patients who undergo emergency curative resection remains uncertain. This study aimed to analyze the oncological outcomes in stage II colon cancer patients who underwent emergency or elective colon resection and identify the prognostic factors for recurrence following emergency resection. Methods: Patients in this study underwent curative resection for stage II colon cancer between March 2008 and December 2020. Based on surgical condition, patients were divided into two groups: emergency and elective. The two groups were compared regarding clinicopathological features and postoperative recurrence. Prognostic factors for recurrence were analyzed in the emergency resection group. Results: Among 161 patients, 60 and 101 patients were emergency group and elective group, respectively. The emergency group had significantly lower adequately harvested lymph nodes than the elective group (p=0.02). The emergency group had significantly poorer disease-free survival compared to the elective group (p=0.019). The most common recurrence site was local recurrence. No statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups in recurrence site. The presence of lymphovascular invasion and clinical perforation were prognostic factors for recurrence in the emergency resection group. Conclusion: Emergency resection for stage II colon cancer is associated with poor disease-free survival compared to elective resection. The prognosis may improve by performing appropriate radical surgery including extensive lymph node dissection. Adjuvant chemotherapy should be performed following emergency surgery for stage II colon cancer, especially when lymphovascular invasion or colonic perforation is identified.

Perioperative outcomes of robotic versus video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery in non-small cell lung cancer patients after neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy.

Limited data are available regarding perioperative outcomes in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who undergo robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS) after neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy. This study aimed to compare the perioperative outcomes of RATS and video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) in NSCLC patients after neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy. The study involved consecutive NSCLC patients treated with minimally invasive surgery (MIS) after neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy at a high-volume single center from September 2020 to October 2022. Short-term effects, including demographic, perioperative and pathological parameters, were compared between the RATS group and the VATS group. A total of 119 patients were included in this study. Of these, 33 (27.7%) patients received RATS and 86 (72.3%) patients received VATS. Major pathological response (MPR) and pathological complete response (pCR) rates were comparable between the two groups. The RATS group had a higher number of dissected lymph nodes (21 vs. 18, P=0.03) and lymph node stations (7 vs. 6, P=0.004) compared with the VATS group but no differences were found in perioperative outcomes. These findings suggest that both RATS and VATS are safe and feasible options for NSCLC patients who have received neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy. Furthermore, RATS may offer advantages over VATS in patients who require a more extensive lymph node dissection.

Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction with Vascularized Omentum Lymph Node Transplant: Reducing the Risk of Both Painful Contracture and Lymphedema.

Patients undergoing extensive lymph node dissection and radiation are at high risk for not only lymphedema but also painful contracture. In a standard lymphadenectomy, immediate lymphatic reconstruction using a lymphovenous bypass is effective in reconstructing the lymphatic defect. However, a more aggressive nodal clearance leaves the patient with a large cavity and skeletonized neurovascular structures, often resulting in severe contracture, pain, cosmetic deformity, and venous stricture. Adjuvant radiotherapy to the nodal bed can lead to severe and permanent disability despite physical therapy. Typically, these patients are referred to us after the fact, where surgery will rarely restore the patient to normal function. In an effort to avoid lymphedema and contracture, we have been reconstructing both the lymphatic and soft tissue defect during lymphadenectomy, using vascularized omentum lymphatic transplant (VOLT). A total of 13 patients underwent immediate reconstruction with VOLT at the time of axillary (n = 8; 61.5%) or groin (n = 5; 38.5%) dissection. No postoperative complications were observed. The mean follow-up time was 15.1 ± 12.5 months. Only one lower extremity patient developed mild lymphedema (11% volume differential), with excellent scores in validated patient-reported outcomes. All patients maintained full range of motion with no pain. None of the 13 patients required a compression garment. Immediate lymphatic reconstruction with VOLT is a promising procedure for minimizing the risk of lymphedema and contracture in the highest risk patients undergoing particularly extensive lymph node dissection and radiotherapy.

Extended pelvic lymph node dissection during robotic prostatectomy: antegrade versus retrograde technique

BackgroundRobot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) with extended lymphadenectomy (ePLND) is the gold standard for surgical treatment of prostate cancer (PCa). Recently, the en-bloc ePLND has been proposed but no studies reported on the standardization of the technique. The aim of the study is to describe different standardized en-bloc ePLND, the antegrade and the retrograde ePLND, and to compare their surgical and oncological outcomes.Materials & MethodsFrom January 2018 to September 2019, all patients subjected to RARP plus ePLND by one single surgeon were enrolled. ePLND was performed in a retrograde fashion by starting laterally to the medial umbilical ligament from the internal inguinal ring proceeding towards the ureter, or in an antegrade way by starting from the ureter at its crossing with the common iliac artery and proceeding towards the femoral canal. Patients’ demographic data, clinical and surgical data were collected. Each en-bloc ePLND was categorized as “efficient” or “inefficient” by the operator, as surrogate of surgeon’s satisfaction.ResultsAntegrade and retrograde ePLND were performed in 41/105 (group A) and 64/105 (group R) patients, respectively. The two groups (A vs R) had similar median (IQR) number of lymph nodes retrieved [20 (16.25–31.5) vs 19 (15–26.25); p = 0.18], ePLND time [33.5 (29.5–38.5) min vs 33.5 (26.5–37.5) min; p = 0.4] and post-operative complications [8/41 (19.5%) vs 9/64 (14.1%); p = 0.61]. In group A, 3/41 (7.3%) clinically significant lymphoceles were reported, while 1/64 (1.6%) in group R (p = 0.3). 33/41 (80.5%) and 28/64 (44%) procedures were scored as efficient 59 in group A and R, respectively (p = 0.01). On multivariate regression, only BMI (B = 0.93; 95% CI 0.29–1.56; p = 0.005) was associated with a longer ePLND time.ConclusionsThe study indicates that antegrade and retrograde en-bloc extended pelvic lymph node dissection (ePLND) have comparable surgical and oncologic outcomes, supporting the importance of standardizing the procedure rather than focusing on the direction. Although both techniques aligned with current evidence regarding lymph node invasion and complications, the antegrade approach was subjectively perceived as safer due to early isolation of critical anatomical landmarks. Encouragement for the use of en-bloc ePLND, regardless of direction, is emphasized to improve prostate cancer staging accuracy and procedural standardization.

Testing the external validity of the POUT III trial (adjuvant platnium-based chemotherapy in upper tract urothelial carcinoma) in a North American cohort

ObjectiveThe European POUT III randomized controlled trial provided level-one evidence that adjuvant platinum-based chemotherapy is the standard of care following nephroureterectomy (RNU) for locally invasive or node-positive upper tract urothelial carcinoma. We aim to assess this European randomized controlled trial's generalizability (external validity) to a North American cohort, using a nationwide database. Materials and MethodsTo compare trial patients with those seen in real-world practice, we simulated the trial inclusion criteria using data from the National Cancer Database (NCDB). We identified patients with histologically confirmed transitional cell carcinoma who underwent RNU. The available demographic characteristics of the NCDB cohort were compared with the POUT III trial cohort using Chi-squared test. ResultsThe NCDB cohort (n = 3,380) had a significantly higher proportion of older patients (age ≥ 80: 23.5% vs. 5%), and more males (68% vs. 56.2%) than the POUT cohort (Table 1, both p < 0.001). Additionally, the rate of advanced nodal disease was higher in the NCDB (N1 9.6%, N2 9.3%) than in the POUT (N1 6%, N2 3%) cohort (p < 0.001). A more extensive lymph node dissection was performed in NCDB vs. POUT patients (node≥10 10.9% vs. 3%, p < 0.001). Sensitivity analysis removing all subjects with a Charlson Comorbidity Index > 0 did not change the significance of any results. ConclusionsWhile the primary disease stage was similar, the rate of advanced nodal disease was significantly higher in NCDB, which might be explained partially by the more extensive lymph node dissection performed in the latter. These differences warrant caution when applying the POUT III findings to North American patients.

110P The role of extensive lymph node dissection in the new grading system for lung adenocarcinoma

110P The role of extensive lymph node dissection in the new grading system for lung adenocarcinoma

Outcomes of robot-assisted laparoscopic extended pelvic lymph node dissection for prostate Cancer

IntroductionExtended pelvic lymph node dissection (ePLND) in men undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RARP) is a widely used procedure. However, little is known about anatomical site-specific yields and subsequent metastatic patterns in these patients.Patients and methodsData on a consecutive series of 1107 patients undergoing RARP at our centre between 2004 and 2018 were analysed. In men undergoing LN dissection, the internal, external and obturator nodes were removed and sent in separately. We performed an analysis of LN yields in total and for each anatomical zone, patterns of LN metastases and complications. Oncological outcome in pN+ disease was assessed including postoperative PSA persistence and survival.ResultsA total of 823 ePLNDs were performed in the investigated cohort resulting in 98 men being diagnosed as pN+ (8.9%). The median (IQR) LN yield was 19 (14–25), 10 (7–13) on the right and 9 (6–12) on the left side (P < 0.001). A median of six (4–8) LNs were retrieved from the external, three (1–6) from the internal iliac artery, and eight (6–12) from the obturator fossa. More men had metastatic LNs on the right side compared to the left (41 vs. 19). Symptomatic lymphoceles occurred exclusively in the ePLND group (2.3% vs. 0%, p = 0.04). Postoperatively, 47 (47.9%) of men with pN+ reached a PSA of < 0.1μg/ml. There was no association between a certain pN+ region and postoperative PSA persistence or BCRFS. The estimated cancer specific survival rate at 5 years was 98.5% for pN+ disease.ConclusionRobot-assisted laparoscopic ePLND with a high LN yield and low complication rate is feasible. However, we observed an imbalance in more removed and positive LNs on the right side compared to the left. A high rate of postoperative PSA persistence and early recurrence in pN+ patients might indicate a possibly limited therapeutical value of the procedure in already spread disease. Yet, these men demonstrated an excellent survival.

Influencing Factors on the Quality of Lymph Node Dissection for Stage IA Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Retrospective Nationwide Cohort Study.

Lymphadenectomy is an essential part of complete surgical operation for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This retrospective, multicenter cohort study aimed to identify factors that influence the lymphadenectomy quality. Data were obtained from the Polish Lung Cancer Study Group Database. The primary endpoint was lobe-specific mediastinal lymph node dissection (L-SMLND). The study included 4271 patients who underwent VATS lobectomy for stage IA NSCLC, operated between 2007 and 2022. L-SMLND was performed in 1190 patients (27.9%). The remaining 3081 patients (72.1%) did not meet the L-SMLND criteria. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that patients with PET-CT (OR 3.238, 95% CI: 2.315 to 4.529; p < 0.001), with larger tumors (pT1a vs. pT1b vs. pT1c) (OR 1.292; 95% CI: 1.009 to 1.653; p = 0.042), and those operated on by experienced surgeons (OR 1.959, 95% CI: 1.432 to 2.679; p < 0.001) had a higher probability of undergoing L-SMLND. The quality of lymphadenectomy decreased over time (OR 0.647, 95% CI: 0.474 to 0.884; p = 0.006). An analysis of propensity-matched groups showed that more extensive lymph node dissection was not related to in-hospital mortality, complication rates, and hospitalization duration. Actions are needed to improve the quality of lymphadenectomy for NSCLC.

Effectiveness and Safety of Extended Lymph Node Dissection during Radical Surgery in Patients with Bladder Cancer: A Meta-Analysis.

Bladder cancer (BC) is the most common malignant tumour of the urinary system, and radical cystectomy combined with pelvic lymph node dissection (LND) is the standard treatment for BC. We conducted this meta-analysis to explore the efficacy and safety of extended lymph node dissection in radical cystectomy for BC. PubMed, Embase, ProQuest PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science and The Cochrane Library databases were searched for studies on extended lymph node dissection during radical BC surgery. The search time limit was from the establishment of the database to December 2023. Screening and quality assessment of literature were conducted. This meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the influence of different lymph node dissection methods on recurrence-free survival (RFS), overall survival (OS), operation time, 90-day readmission rate and postoperative complication rate. A total of 15 studies were included, including 4854 patients. All studies were of high quality. This meta-analysis showed no statistically significant difference in the operation time, postoperative complications and 90-day hospitalisation rate between the two groups of patients. The harvested volume of lymph nodes, RFS and OS rate were not statistically different. Among patients with BC undergoing radical cystectomy, extended lymph node dissection did not have a significant effect on operative time, 90-day readmission rates or postoperative complication rates. Thus, extended lymph node dissection is a safe treatment that does not increase the patient's surgical risk.

Laparoscopic vs. open surgical access radical cystectomy with subsequent orthotopic reconstruction in the treatment of invasive urothelial carcinoma of the bladder.

Radical cystectomy combined with extended lymph node dissection is the treatment of choice for muscle-invasive bladder cancer and can be performed using open, laparoscopic, or robot-assisted surgical access.

A comparative analysis of perioperative complications and biochemical recurrence between standard and extended pelvic lymph node dissection in prostate cancer patients undergoing radical prostatectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) is commonly performed during radical prostatectomy (RP) for prostate cancer staging. This study aimed to comprehensively analyze existing evidence compare perioperative complications associated with standard (sPLND) versus extended PLND templates (ePLND) in RP patients. A meta-analysis of prospective studies on PLND complications was conducted. Systematic searches were performed on Web of Science, Pubmed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library until May 2023. Risk ratios (RRs) were estimated using random-effects models in the meta-analysis. The statistical analysis of the data was carried out using Review Manager software. Nine studies, including 3 randomized clinical trial and 6 prospective studies, with a total of 4,962 patients were analyzed. The meta-analysis revealed that patients undergoing ePLND had a higher risk of partial perioperative complications, such as lymphedema (I2=28%; RR 0.05; 95% CI, 0.01-0.27; P<0.001) and urinary retention (I2=0%; RR 0.30; 95% CI, 0.09-0.94; P=0.04) compared to those undergoing sPLND. However, there were no significant difference was observed in pelvic hematoma (I2=0%; RR 1.65; 95% CI, 0.44-6.17; P=0.46), thromboembolic (I2=57%; RR 0.91; 95% CI, 0.35-2.38; P=0.85), ureteral injury (I2=33%; RR 0.28; 95% CI, 0.05-1.52; P=0.14), intraoperative bowel injury (I2=0%; RR 0.87; 95% CI, 0.14-5.27; P=0.88), and lymphocele (I2=0%; RR 1.58; 95% CI, 0.54-4.60; P=0.40) between sPLND and ePLND. Additionally, no significant difference was observed in overall perioperative complications (I2=85%; RR 0.68; 95% CI, 0.40-1.16; P=0.16). Furthermore, ePLND did not significantly reduce biochemical recurrence (I2=68%; RR 0.59; 95% CI, 0.28-1.24; P=0.16) of prostate cancer. This analysis found no significant differences in overall perioperative complications or biochemical recurrence between sPLND and ePLND, but ePLND may offer enhanced diagnostic advantages by increasing the detection rate of lymph node metastasis.

Rhomboid intercostal sub serratus plane block – Same bird with different horizons

Sir,We did a case series in five patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy who were given RISS for post-operative analgesia. We noticed that the intraoperative fentanyl consumption as well as the post-operative analgesic consumption was significantly less. The overall quality of life and satisfaction score for routine daily activities like wearing clothes was better in our patients. The importance and efficacy of these blocks are because of the continuity of the interfacial planes across varied anatomical tissues. These planes have various cutaneous as well as sympathetic branches and hence drug given spreads to cover a large dermatomal area. RISS has been proposed to cover lateral cutaneous branches of T2 to T11 that extend medially to cover dorsal rami deep to the errector spinae muscle plane (ESP). The site of injectate is at T5-T6. The dermatomal coverage is 4 cm lateral to the midline anteriorly, posteriorly 4 cm medial to the posterior axillary line, cranially up to serrated posterior superior caudally up to serratus posterior inferior. The advantages of RISS block are that the injection is far from the surgical site and hence the drug does not interfere with the surgical field or cautery if given preoperatively. After induction technically, it is more feasible than serratus plane block or pectoral blocks. Logistically prior catheterization is possible that does not interfere with the sterility of the surgical field. Despite the above advantages, the axillary coverage is inconsistent as it does not cover the intercostobrachial nerve (LCB of second ICN T2). The midline, thoracodorsal nerve, and long thoracic nerve are not covered. Complete analgesia is not provided for latissimus dorsi flap, segmental resection surgeries, lymph node dissections, or radical mastectomies. Dr. Tulgar, first-ever reported of the use of RIB in a patient of MRM and highlighted the superiority of peri-peri-paravertebral blocks apart from previously used ESP and paravertebral blocks for a similar condition. Altiparimak conducted an RCT on 30 MRM patients with axillary lymph node dissection. The patients had enhanced recovery and quality of life scores (QoR-40), especially in terms of pain and emotional status. RISS has proved its non-inferiority as compared to ESP, paravertebral, PEC, and SAP which are closer to neuroaxis, at non-compressible sites and difficult to execute in obese patients. Thus RISS is excellent as a part of MMA for post-operative pain management in MRM patients, who remain comfortable for up to 14 h and have an NRS score &lt;3 was seen in all of our five patients. The dynamic nature of pain was apparent at 14 h in three of the patients who had extensive axillary lymph node dissection. Is the journey of regional anesthesia just the replacement of “pops and clicks” with see it and block it? The renaissance in the era of blocks is visualizing an invention of a new block almost every month. We depend on the facial plane anatomy, its structure, and its relation to the surrounding organs and tissues to precisely disseminate the local anesthetic to its desired location. In this blind sheep race, enthusiasm should not blur our understanding of the basics. We should remember Triple A, improve health, enhance patient outcomes, and decrease the costs. We open the doors for larger studies with more patients, comparing different blocks with RIB/RISS blocks before generalizing the results. CONCLUSIONRhomboid intercostal subserratus plane block is an excellent option for intra and post-operative pain management as a part of multimodal analgesia in MRM patients.

Advantage of log odds of positive lymph nodes in prognostic evaluation of patients with early-onset colon cancer.

Colon cancer (CC) is one of the most common cancers of the digestive tract, the third most common cancer worldwide, and the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths. Previous studies have demonstrated a higher risk of lymph node metastasis (LNM) in young patients with CC. It might be reasonable to treat patients with early-onset locally advanced CC with extended lymph node dissection. However, few studies have focused on early-onset CC (ECC) patients with LNM. At present, the methods of predicting and evaluating the prognosis of ECC patients with LNM are controversial. To compare the prognostic values of four lymph node staging indices and establish the best nomogram for patients with ECC. From the data of patients with CC obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, data of young patients with ECC (≤ 50 years old) was screened. Patients with unknown data were excluded from the study, while the remaining patients were included. The patients were randomly divided into a training group (train) and a testing group (test) in the ratio of 7:3, while building the model. The model was constructed by the training group and verified by the testing group. Using multiple Cox regression models to compare the prediction efficiency of LNM indicators, nomograms were built based on the best model selected for overall survival (OS) and cause-specific survival (CSS). In the two groups, the performance of the nomogram was evaluated by constructing a calibration plot, time-dependent area under the curve (AUC), and decision curve analysis. Finally, the patients were grouped based on the risk score predicted by the prognosis model, and the survival curve was constructed after comparing the survival status of the high and low-risk groups. Records of 26922 ECC patients were screened from the SEER database. N classification, positive lymph nodes (PLN), lymph node ratio (LNR) and log odds of PLN (LODDS) were considered to be independent predictors of OS and CSS. In addition, independent risk factors for OS included gender, race, marital status, primary site, histology, grade, T, and M classification, while the independent prognostic factors for CSS included race, marital status, primary site, grade, T, and M classification. The prediction model including LODDS is composed of minimal Akaike information criterion, maximal concordance indexes, and AUCs. Factors including gender, race, marital status, primary site, histology, grade, T, M classification, and LODDS were integrated into the OS nomogram, while race, marital status, primary site, grade, T, M classification, and LODDS were included into the CSS nomogram. The nomogram representing both cohorts had been successfully verified in terms of prediction accuracy and clinical practicability. LODDS is superior to N-stage, PLN, and LNR of ECC. The nomogram containing LODDS might be helpful in tumor evaluation and clinical decision-making, since it provides an appropriate prediction of ECC.

P134 - Risk for progression in patients with pathological lymph-node metastatic disease (pN1) who underwent robot-assisted radical prostatectomy and extensive pelvic lymph node dissection.

P134 - Risk for progression in patients with pathological lymph-node metastatic disease (pN1) who underwent robot-assisted radical prostatectomy and extensive pelvic lymph node dissection.

Long-Term Oncologic Outcomes in Robot-Assisted and Video-Assisted Lobectomies for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer.

This study compares long-term outcomes in patients undergoing video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) and robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS) lobectomy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC); all consecutive patients who underwent RATS or VATS lobectomy for NSCLC between July 2015 and December 2021 in our center were enrolled in a single-center prospective study. The primary outcomes were overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and recurrence rate. The secondary outcomes were complication rate, length of hospitalization (LOS), duration of chest tubes (LOD), and number of lymph node stations harvested. A total of 619 patients treated with RATS (n = 403) or VATS (n = 216) were included in the study. There was no significant difference in OS between the RATS and VATS groups (3-year OS: 75.9% vs. 82.3%; 5-year OS: 70.5% vs. 68.5%; p = 0.637). There was a statistically significant difference in DFS between the RATS and VATS groups (3-year DFS: 92.4% vs. 81.2%; 5-year DFS: 90.3% vs. 77.6%; p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis according to the pathological stage also demonstrated a significant difference between RATS and VATS groups in DFS in stage I (3-year DFS: 94.4% vs. 88.9%; 5-year DFS: 91.8% vs. 85.2%; p = 0.037) and stage III disease (3-year DFS: 82.4% vs. 51.1%; 5-year DFS: 82.4% vs. 37.7%; p = 0.024). Moreover, in multivariable Cox regression analysis, the surgical approach was significantly associated with DFS, with an HR of 0.46 (95% CI 0.27-0.78, p = 0.004) for RATS compared to VATS. VATS lobectomy was associated with a significantly higher recurrence rate compared to RATS (21.8% vs. 6.2%; p < 0.001). LOS and LOD, as well as complication rate and in-hospital and 30-day mortality, were similar among the groups. RATS lobectomy was associated with a higher number of lymph node stations harvested compared to VATS (7 [IQR:2] vs. 5 [IQR:2]; p < 0.001). In conclusion, in our series, RATS lobectomy for lung cancer led to a significantly higher DFS and significantly lower recurrence rate compared to the VATS approach. RATS may allow more extensive nodal dissection, and this could translate into reduced recurrence.

Which Patients with Prostate Cancer and Lymph Node Uptake at Preoperative Prostate-specific Membrane Antigen Positron Emission Tomography/Computerized Tomography Scan Are at a Higher Risk of Prostate-specific Antigen Persistence After Radical Prostatectomy? Identifying Indicators of Systemic Disease by Integrating Clinical, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Functional Imaging Parameters

BackgroundThe role of local therapies including radical prostatectomy (RP) in prostate cancer (PCa) patients with clinical lymphadenopathies on prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positron emission tomography/computerized tomography (PET/CT) has scarcely been explored. Limited data are available to identify men who would benefit from RP; on the contrary, those more likely to benefit already have systemic disease. ObjectiveWe aimed to assess the predictors of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) persistence in surgically managed PCa patients with lymphadenopathies on a PSMA PET/CT scan by integrating clinical, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and PSMA PET/CT parameters. Design, setting, and participantsWe identified 519 patients treated with RP and extended lymph node dissection, and who received preoperative PSMA PET between 2017 and 2022 in nine referral centers. Among them, we selected 88 patients with nodal uptake at preoperative PSMA PET (miTxN1M0). Outcome measurements and statistical analysisThe outcome was PSA persistence, defined as a PSA value of ≥0.1 ng/ml at the first measurement after surgery. Multivariable logistic regression models tested the predictors of PSA persistence. Covariates consisted of biopsy International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grade group, clinical stage at MRI, and number of positive spots at a PET/CT scan. A regression tree analysis stratified patients into risk groups based on preoperative characteristics. Results and limitationsOverall, lymph node invasion (LNI) was detected in 63 patients (72%) and 32 (36%) experienced PSA persistence after RP. At multivariable analyses, having more than two lymph nodal positive findings at PSMA PET, seminal vesicle invasion (SVI) at MRI, and ISUP grade group >3 at biopsy were independent predictors of PSA persistence (all p < 0.05). At the regression tree analysis, patients were stratified in four risk groups according to biopsy ISUP grade, number of positive findings at PET/CT, and clinical stage at MRI. The model depicted good discrimination at internal validation (area under the curve 78%). ConclusionsOne out of three miN1M0 patients showed PSA persistence after surgery. Patients with ISUP grade 2–3, as well as patients with organ-confined disease at MRI and a single or two positive nodal findings at PET are those in whom RP may achieve the best oncological outcomes in the context of a multimodal approach. Conversely, patients with a high ISUP grade and extracapsular extension or SVI or more than two spots at PSMA PET should be considered as potentially affected by systemic disease upfront. Patient summaryOur novel and straightforward risk classification integrates currently available preoperative risk tools and should, therefore, assist physician in preoperative counseling of men candidates for radical treatment for prostate cancer with positive lymph node uptake at prostate-specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography.

Rare histological subtypes of bladder cancer in clinical practice: a case series

Non-urothelial tumors account for less than 5% of all bladder malignant neoplasms. The most common non-urothelial tumor is squamous cell carcinoma, often found in the Middle East (about 30% of all cases of bladder cancer BC) due to the spread of schistosomiasis. The glandular type is the second most common non-urothelial morphological variant; it includes 5 tumor subtypes (intestinal, mucinous, signet ring cell, mixed, and adenocarcinoma not otherwise specified). The neuroendocrine variant is divided into 4 subgroups (small cell, large cell, highly differentiated, and paragangliomas), of which small cell is the most common, though still rare, and accounts for only about 1% of all BCs. The article presents the clinical cases of three rare BC subtypes: squamous cell, glandular, and neuroendocrine. In the first clinical case, a radical cure of a patient with signet ring cell BC was described: at the first stage, the bladder, prostate, and vesicles were removed with a cystoplasty using a small intestine segment according to the Bricker technique with an extended pelvic lymph node dissection; the second stage included 8 courses of adjuvant drug treatment according to the XELOX regimen. In the second clinical case, the treatment of the metastatic neuroendocrine BC was described using the following regimens: EP (etoposide + cisplatin), carboplatin + irinotecan, GemOx (gemcitabine + oxaliplatin). The third clinical case described a patient with bladder squamous cell carcinoma. The stage I treatment was based on the GC regimen; at stage II, the bladder, prostate, and vesicles were removed with intestinal orthotopic cystoplasty and extended lymph node dissection; due to progression revealed during the follow-up examination, the patient received another GC course. Although non-urothelial BCs are very rare, studies are currently being conducted on the effectiveness of immunotherapy and targeted therapy in treating this cohort of patients.

FDG-PET/CT for lymph node staging prior to radical cystectomy

Background18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission combined with computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) has been proposed to improve preoperative staging in patients with bladder cancer subjected to radical cystectomy (RC).ObjectiveOur aim was to assess the accuracy of FDG-PET/CT for lymph node staging ascertained at the multidisciplinary tumour board compared to lymph node status in the surgical lymphadenectomy specimen obtained at RC, and to explore potential factors associated with false-positive FDG-PET/CT results.Design, setting and participantsConsecutive patients with bladder cancer undergoing RC with extended lymph node dissection between 2011 and 2019 without preoperative chemotherapy in a tertial referral cystectomy unit were included in the study.Outcome measurements and statistical analysesSensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values and likelihood ratios were calculated. Potential factors investigated for association with false-positive FDG-PET/CT were; bacteriuria within four weeks prior to FDG-PET/CT, Bacillus Calmette–Guerin (BCG) treatment within 12 months prior to FDG-PET/CT and transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURB) within four weeks prior to FDG-PET/CT.ResultsAmong 157 patients included for analysis, 44 (28%) were clinically node positive according to FDG-PET/CT. The sensitivity and specificity for detection of lymph node metastasis were 50% and 84%, respectively, and the corresponding positive predictive and negative predictive values were 61% and 76%. Positive and negative likelihood ratios were 3.0 and 0.6, respectively. No association was found between bacteriuria, previous BCG treatment or TURB within 28 days and false-positive FDG-PET/CT results.ConclusionsPreoperative FDG-PET/CT prior to RC had a clinically meaningful high specificity (84%) but lower sensitivity (50%) for detection of lymph node metastases compared to lymph node status in an extended pelvic lymphadenectomy template. We could not identify any factors associated with false-positive FDG-PET/CT outcomes.

Identification of the Optimal Candidates for Nodal Staging with Extended Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection Among Prostate Cancer Patients Who Underwent Preoperative Prostate-specific Membrane Antigen Positron Emission Tomography. External Validation of the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Briganti Nomograms and Development of a Novel Tool

BackgroundAlthough the therapeutic role of extended pelvic lymph node dissection (ePLND) in patients with prostate cancer (PCa) is still under debate, this procedure is recommended for staging purposes in selected cases. Nomograms for predicting lymph node invasion (LNI) do not account for prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, which is characterized by a high negative predictive value for nodal metastases. ObjectiveTo externally validate models predicting LNI in patients with miN0M0 PCa at PSMA PET and to develop a novel tool in this setting. Design, setting, and participantsOverall, 458 patients with miN0M0 disease undergoing radical prostatectomy (RP) and ePLND at 12 centers between 2017 and 2022 were identified. Outcome measurements and statistical analysesAvailable tools were externally validated using calibration plots, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and decision curve analyses to assess calibration, discrimination, and the net benefit. A novel coefficient-based model was developed, internally validated, and compared with available tools. Results and limitationsOverall, 53 patients (12%) had LNI. The AUC was 69% for the Briganti 2012, 64% for the Briganti 2017, 73% for the Briganti 2019, and 66% for the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center nomogram. Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging stage, biopsy grade group 5, the diameter of the index lesion, and the percentage of positive cores at systematic biopsy were independent predictors of LNI (all p ≤ 0.04). Internal cross-validation confirmed a coefficient-based model with AUC of 78%, better calibration, and a higher net benefit in comparison to the other nomograms assessed. Use of a 5% cutoff would have spared 47% ePLND procedures (vs 13% for the Briganti 2019 nomogram) at the cost of missing only 2.1% LNI cases . The lack of central review of imaging and pathology represents the main limitation. ConclusionsTools for predicting LNI are associated with suboptimal performance for men with miN0M0 PCa. We propose a novel model for predicting LNI that outperforms available tools in this population. Patient summaryTools currently used to predict lymph node invasion (LNI) in prostate cancer are not optimal for men with negative node findings on PET (positron emission tomography) scans, leading to a high number of unnecessary extended pelvic lymph node dissection (ePLND) procedures. A novel tool should be used in clinical practice to identify candidates for ePLND to reduce the risk of unnecessary procedures without missing LNI cases.