Abstract
Western and Eastern practices have traditionally differed in their approach to treating lateral lymph nodes in rectal cancer. While Western clinicians have primarily favored neoadjuvant (chemo)radiotherapy to sterilize lateral compartments, Eastern physicians have often opted for the surgical removed of lymphatic tissue with a lateral lymph node dissection without neoadjuvant treatment. The literature suggests similar oncological outcomes for these two separate techniques, while tangible differences exist. The combination of these paradigms may be beneficial in reducing overall morbidity while sustaining low recurrence rates. This article considers traditional Eastern and Western perspectives, discusses nodal features important for predicting malignancy and attempts to stimulate international, multidisciplinary consensus and collaboration.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 731-737 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Annals of Gastroenterological Surgery |
Volume | 5 |
Issue number | 6 |
Early online date | 9 Aug 2021 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Nov 2021 |