Role of Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection for Clinically Localized Prostate Cancer: Should It be Done?

The role of pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) at the time of radical prostatectomy for clinically localized prostate cancer has remained controversial. While providing the most accurate staging for prostate cancer, the data regarding the therapeutic benefits of a PLND is inconclusive. In this article, we summarize the different PLND templates as well as the data both for and against performing a PLND. Finally, we outline future directions in selecting patients for PLND, and propose a theory on how pelvic lymph nodes may play a vital role in developing novel immunotherapy regimens.