[Non-small cell lung cancer : the limits of surgical resection]

The International Staging System for lung cancer actually subdivides patients in two subcategories, according to surgical resectability. Theoretically the landmark is between stages IIIA and IIIB. Non-resectability of T4 tumors is controversial. Because technical advances in surgical techniques and perioperative care, several selected patients with mediastinal involvement (left atrium, great vessels, carina, spine) can be resected with encouraging long-term outcomes. Published data on surgical treatment for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer are reviewed.