NTTS 2017

The role of lymph nodes in the metastatic process has long been controversial. In my view, there is ample evidence to demonstrate that in many cases, lymph nodes represent an incubator for subsequent metastases. Early removal of metastatic nodes, therefore, will decrease the frequency of such spread and improve survival.

Available trial data supports this assertion in many (though not all) cases.

The key question for clinical use is determining in which situations intervention with lymphadenectomy is beneficial. The answer to this question will come from clinical trial data and improved assessments of the metastatic potential of different primary tumors.