A Nomogram to Predict Cancer-Specific Survival of Transitional Cell Carcinoma of Ureter After Surgery

Background and Objectives: Due to the rare focus on ureteral cancer survival analyses, this study investigates post-surgery cancer-specific survival (CSS) rates, along with prognostic factors affecting these outcomes. It aims to enhance understanding of disease progression and determinants of patient survival and develop a nomogram for reference. Materials and Methods: This research undertook a retrospective analysis of ureteral cancer patients who received surgical intervention from 2010 to 2017, utilizing data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. The primary endpoint was survival, with 1-, 3-, and 5-year CSS rates calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Initial univariate Cox proportional hazards analyses identified factors impacting survival, with those yielding a p-value under 0.05 progressing to multivariate Cox regression analysis to ascertain significant prognostic indicators. Results: The investigation encompassed 2277 patients diagnosed with ureteral cancer. CSS rates at 1, 3, and 5 years post-surgery were observed at 88.2%, 68.1%, and 60.3%, respectively. Multivariate analyses identified age, staging of tumor, node and metastasis, and the application of radiotherapy as significant prognostic indicators for CSS. Based on these factors, a post-surgical nomogram for CSS was developed. Conclusions: The survival outcomes for ureteral cancer are not yet satisfactory. Age and stage emerge as pivotal prognostic elements, significantly impacting CSS following surgery. Recognizing these factors is essential for clinicians, as they offer critical insights that inform treatment strategies and patient management.