Factors affecting the number of lymph nodes retrieved after colo-rectal cancer surgery: A prospective single-centre study

摘要

Background: The number of harvested lymph nodes (LNs) in colorectal cancer surgery relates to oncologic radicality and accuracy of staging. In addition, it affects the choice of adjuvant therapy, as well as prognosis. The American Joint Committee on Cancer defines at least 12 LNs harvested as adequate in colorectal cancer resections. Despite the importance of the topic, even in high -volume colorectal centres the rate of adequacy never reaches 100%. The aim of this study was to identify factors that affect the number of harvested LNs in oncologic colorectal surgery.