What counts most in the lymph node count for colorectal cancer?

Abstract

The adequate number of lymph nodes that should be examined to correctly stage colorectal cancer is still debated. Even though the guidelines state that 12 should be the minimum, there is ongoing concern that this might not be enough. Moreover, many studies have shown that this cut-off is far from universally obtained in many surgical series, whether via laparotomy or via laparoscopy. Arguments in favor of sticking to the cutoff value of 12 are weak: certainly, culling and examining as many lymph nodes as possible should increase the chances of correct staging and the consequent therapeutic consequences, decrease local recurrence and, perhaps, also increase survival (although this is not the direct consequence of gathering and examining as many lymph nodes as possible). Laparoscopy should be no different from open surgery: the same rational prevails for laparoscopic oncologic clearance to increase patient well-being and ensure good practice. What is most important, however, is to make surgeons and pathologists realize that this issue is important and that all of us should strive, in close collaboration, to achieve these goals, for the good of the patient, the person for whom the lymph node count counts most.