Management of bronchial carcinoids: international practice survey among the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to assess the international practice of management of bronchial carcinoids.

Materials & methods: A survey designed by the Neuroendocrine Tumors of the Lung Working Group, was conducted among the members of the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons.

Results: A total of 172 centers worldwide replied to the questionnaire. General agreement was observed concerning the use of anatomic resections and parenchyma-sparing surgery, the importance of lymphadenectomy, the adjuvant regimens in N(+) atypical carcinoids and the role of surgery for local recurrences. Controversies emerged in the use of nuclear medicine imaging and measurement of serum markers and on the timing of follow-up.

Conclusion: This survey provides the largest international overview of the current practice in the management of bronchial carcinoids and identifies discrepancies that could be the focus of future investigations.

Keywords: bronchial carcinoid; chemotherapy; lung; neuroendocrine tumor; practice survey; radiotherapy; surgery.