T  stage-dependent lymph node and distant metastasis and the accuracy of lymph node assessment in rectal cancer

ConclusionIn rectal cancer, at leastn = 12 lymph nodes are to be minimally investigated. The investigation of fewer lymph nodes is associated with a higher risk of false-negative pN0 findings. In particular, in pT3 rectal cancer, the investigation of more than 12 lymph nodes lowers the risk of false-negative pN0 findings. An ups taging effect by the investigation of a possibly maximal number of lymph nodes could not be detected.
Source: European Surgery - Category: Surgery Source Type: research