Total number of lymph nodes in oncologic resections, is there more to be found?

Pathologic staging of oncologic specimens includes the identification of the accurate lymph node status. Retrieving more lymph nodes leads to a more reliable N0 status in the TNM classification. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate whether more lymph nodes can be retrieved from oncologic resection specimens when more time is invested in the search and if this contributes to a more reliable N-status in the individual patient. A total of 67 gastrointestinal oncologic specimens were reexamined for additional lymph nodes. The mean number of lymph nodes collected in the prospective group was compared against two retrospective groups, one before minima for lymph node counts were set (retrospective group 1) and one after (retrospective group 2). More lymph nodes were dissected per specimen in the prospective group (24.1 lymph nodes), compared to the retrospective group (14.3 lymph nodes, P = <0.001). During the study period, more patients were diagnosed as pN+ compared to the two retrospective groups (62.7 vs. 47.8 % respectively, P = 0.082). Significantly more lymph nodes can be found in oncologic specimens when more time is invested in the search. This will result in more accurate staging of the tumor.