Distribution of Lymph Node Metastases in Esophageal Carcinoma

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the distribution of lymph node metastases in patients with esophageal or gastro-esophageal junction carcinoma who undergo transthoracic esophagectomy with at least a two-field lymphadenectomy. This multinational observational study aims to better understand how lymph node spread varies by tumor location, histology, invasion depth, and use of neoadjuvant therapy. By studying these patterns in a large patient group, the research seeks to inform more tailored treatments, such as optimal radiation fields and surgical approaches. This study includes all patients with resectable esophageal carcinoma undergoing transthoracic esophagectomy with two- or three-field lymphadenectomy in participating centers across 18 countries. All lymph node stations removed during surgery are examined separately. The study will analyze patterns of metastases in relation to tumor characteristics and treatment history, including the use of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. No additional procedures are performed beyond standard care. Participants will be followed for five years after surgery according to national guidelines, with regular follow-up visits scheduled every three months in the first year, every six months during years two to four, and annually in the fifth year. Researchers will collect data on lymph node involvement, recurrence patterns, survival outcomes, and diagnostic accuracy. This information will help identify subgroups of patients with different metastasis patterns and assess long-term disease-free and overall survival.

Distribution of Lymph Node Metastases in Esophageal Carcinoma