Location-specific lymph node dissection improves survival in esophageal cancer

Clinicians established that for early-stage esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, dissection of at least 17 lymph nodes significantly boosts survival rates. Tailored recommendations emerged based on tumor location: upper thoracic tumors require 19 lymph nodes, middle thoracic 17, and lower thoracic 18. Multivariate analysis identified total and lower mediastinal lymph nodes as critical independent prognostic factors. These findings equip surgeons with essential guidelines for optimizing lymph node dissection strategies, thereby enhancing patient outcomes.