The Effect of More Aggressive Surgery in Esophageal Cancer

Abstract

Purpose: One of the most controversial aspects of surgery for esophageal cancer is the appropriate extent of lymphadenectomy to achieve the best outcome. The purpose of this study was to clarify the effects of an extended lymphadenectomy (complete 2-field lymphadenectomy; complete 2-FL or 3-field lymphadenectomy; 3-FL) in esophageal cancer surgery. Materials and Methods: In order to prevent a local recurrence and improve the long-term survival following surgery, an extended lymphadenectomy has systematically been performed at four hospitals of the Catholic University College of Medicine since 1995. And since that time, until the end of 2001, a total of 98 patients have undergone the procedure. Their clinical results were compared with those of 54 esophageal cancer patients who received an incomplete 2-field lymphadenectomy (incomplete 2-FL), between 1990 and 1994, at the same hospitals. Results: After an extended lymphadenectomy a recurrence was noted in 41 cases (44.6%), a local recurrence occurred in 23 cases (25.0%) and a metastatic recurrence in 18 (19.6%), with the 5-year survival rate improved to 39.5%, than the 29% of the incomplete 2-FL. There was no difference in the morbidity of the fatal complications and the mortality between the two groups. Conclusion: The long survival rate was improved with an extended lymphadenectomy, but the morbidity and mortality rate had not increased. (Cancer Res Treat. 2003;35:52-58)