Patients with isolated lateral lymph node metastasis show better outcomes

A significant proportion of rectal cancer patients exhibit isolated lateral lymph node (LLN) metastases without mesenteric involvement. Results indicate these patients have a markedly better prognosis, with three-year overall survival rates of 85% compared to 51% for those with both LLN and mesenteric metastases. Furthermore, findings revealed that characteristics such as poor histological types and lymphatic invasion were less prevalent in patients with isolated LLN metastases, supporting a more favorable treatment outlook.