Resection of the Primary Tumor and Survival in Patients with Single-Site Synchronous Oligometastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Propensity-Matched Analysis of the National Cancer Database

BACKGROUND

Local therapy for the primary tumor is postulated to remove resistant cancer cells as well as immunosuppressive cells from the tumor microenvironment, potentially improving response to systemic therapy (ST). We sought to determine whether resection of the primary tumor was associated with overall survival (OS) in a multicentric cohort of patients with single-site synchronous oligometastatic non-small cell lung cancer.

STUDY DESIGN

Using the National Cancer Database (2018 to 2020), we evaluated patients with clinical stage IVA disease who received ST and stratified the cohort based on receipt of surgery for the primary tumor (S). We used multivariable and propensity score-matched analysis to study factors associated with S (logistic regression) and OS (Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier), respectively.

RESULTS

Among 12,215 patients identified, 2.9% (N = 349) underwent S and 97.1% (N = 11,886) ST (chemotherapy or immunotherapy) without surgery. Patients who underwent S were younger, more often White, had higher income levels, were more likely to have private insurance, and were more often treated at an academic facility. Among those who received S, 22.9% (N = 80) also underwent resection of the distant metastatic site. On multivariable analysis, metastasis to bone, N+ disease, and higher T-stages were independently associated with less S. On Cox regression, S and resection of the metastatic site were associated with improved survival (hazard ratio 0.67, 95% CI 0.56 to 0.80 and hazard ratio 0.80, 95% CI 0.72 to 0.88, respectively). After propensity matching, OS was improved in patients undergoing S (median 36.8 vs 20.8 months, log-rank p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Advances in ST for non-small cell lung cancer may change the paradigm of eligibility for surgery. This study demonstrates that surgical resection of the primary tumor is associated with improved OS in selected patients with single-site oligometastatic disease.

Association of socioeconomic factors with the receipt of neoadjuvant therapy for patients with non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Neoadjuvant therapy (NT) will be increasingly used for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), particularly given the recent approval of neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy. Several barriers may prevent the uptake of NT and should be identified and addressed. We queried the National Cancer Database (NCDB) to determine predictors of the use of NT.

METHODS

Using the NCDB (2006-2019), we identified 80,707 patients who underwent surgery for clinical stage II and III NSCLC. Sociodemographic and clinical factors were reviewed, and univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to identify associations with the uptake of NT. In propensity score-matched groups, survival was determined using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Among 80,707 eligible patients, 17,262 (21.4%) received NT. Clinical stage and node positivity were associated with receipt of NT. On multivariable analysis, factors associated with lower rates of NT included black race (odds ratio [OR], 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.67-0.90), Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥2 (OR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.67-0.85), Medicaid/Medicare insurance (OR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.75-0.90), lower income level (OR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.71-0.87), and treatment at a community center (OR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.67-0.96). In an exploratory analysis, those patients who received NT had longer 5-year overall survival compared with those who did not (48.3% vs 46.0%; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Rates of NT are relatively low for patients with clinical stage II/III NSCLC treated prior to recent chemoimmunotherapy trials. Socioeconomic barriers to the uptake of NT include race, insurance status, income, and area of residence. As NT becomes more widely offered, accessibility for vulnerable populations must be assured.

Minimally invasive surgery for clinical T4 non-small-cell lung cancer: national trends and outcomes

OBJECTIVES

Recent randomized data support the perioperative benefits of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Its utility for cT4 tumours remains understudied. We, therefore, sought to analyse national trends and outcomes of minimally invasive resections for cT4 cancers.

METHODS

Using the 2010-2019 National Cancer Database, we identified patients with cT4N0-1 NSCLC. Patients were stratified by surgical approach. Multivariable logistic analysis was used to identify factors associated with use of a minimally invasive approach. Groups were matched using propensity score analysis to evaluate perioperative and survival end points.

RESULTS

The study identified 3715 patients, among whom 64.1% (n = 2381) underwent open resection and 35.9% (n = 1334) minimally invasive resection [robotic-assisted in 31.5% (n = 420); and video-assisted in 68.5% (n = 914)]. Increased MIS use was noted among patients with higher income [≥$40 227, odds ratio (OR) 1.24; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01-1.51] and those treated at academic hospitals (OR 1.25; 95% CI 1.07-1.45). Clinically node-positive patients (OR 0.68; 95% CI 0.55-0.83) and those who underwent neoadjuvant therapy (OR 0.78; 95% CI 0.65-0.93) were less likely to have minimally invasive resection. In matched groups, patients undergoing MIS had a shorter median length of stay (5 vs 6 days, P < 0.001) and no significant differences between 30-day readmissions or 30/90-day mortality. MIS did not compromise overall survival (log-rank P = 0.487).

CONCLUSIONS

Nationally, the use of minimally invasive approaches for patients with cT4N0-1M0 NSCLC has increased substantially. In these patients, MIS is safe and does not compromise perioperative outcomes or survival.

Sublobar resection is associated with less lymph nodes examined and lower delivery of adjuvant therapy in patients with 1.5- to 2.0-cm clinical IA2 non-small-cell lung cancer: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

CALGB140503, in which nodal sampling was mandated, reported non-inferior disease-free survival for patients undergoing sublobar resection (SLR) compared to lobectomy (L). Outside of trial settings, the adequacy of lymphadenectomy during SLR has been questioned. We sought to evaluate whether SLR is associated with suboptimal lymphadenectomy, differences in pathologic upstaging and survival in patients with 1.5- to 2.0-cm tumours using real-world data.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using the National Cancer Database(2018-2019), we evaluated patients with 1.5- to 2.0-cm non-small-cell lung cancer who underwent resection (sublobar versus lobectomy). We studied factors associated with nodal upstaging (logistic regression) and survival (Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier method) after propensity matching to adjust for differences among groups.

RESULTS

Among 3196 patients included, SLR was performed in 839 (26.3%) (of which 588 were wedge resections) and L was performed in 2357 (73.7%) patients. More patients undergoing SLR (21.7%) compared to L (2.1%) had no lymph nodes sampled (P < 0.001). Those undergoing SLR had fewer total lymph nodes examined (4 vs 11, P < 0.001) and were less likely to have pathologic nodal metastases (4.7% vs 9%, P < 0.001) compared to L. Multivariable analysis identified L [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.21, 95% confidence interval, 1.47-3.35] to be independently associated with pathologic N+ disease. Overall survival was not associated with the type of procedure but was significantly decreased in those with N+ disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite comparable overall survival to L, SLR is associated with suboptimal lymphadenectomy in patients with 1.5-2.0 cm non-small-cell lung cancer. Surgeons should be careful to perform adequate lymphadenectomy when performing SLR to mitigate nodal under-staging and to identify appropriate patients for systemic therapy.

The Effect of Neoadjuvant Therapy on Esophagectomy for cT2N0M0 Esophageal Adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

For cT2N0M0 esophageal adenocarcinomas, the effects of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NT) on surgical outcomes and the oncological benefits to the patients are debatable. In this study, we investigated the optimal management for cT2N0M0 adenocarcinoma (1) assessing the perioperative impact of NT on esophagectomy and (2) evaluating the oncologic effect of NT in a homogeneous group of patients with clinical stage IIA. We hypothesized that NT does not negatively affect perioperative outcomes and provides an oncologic benefit to selected patients with cT2N0M0 disease.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database was queried (2010-2019) for patients with cT2N0M0 esophageal adenocarcinoma undergoing esophagectomy. After propensity-matching to adjust for differences in patient and tumor characteristics, we compared postoperative outcomes (logistic regression) and survival (Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression) among those who underwent NT vs upfront surgery (S).

RESULTS

This study included 3413 patients, of whom 2359 (69%) received NT, and 1054 (31%) S. In contrast to those who underwent S, in the matched cohort, patients treated with NT had comparable conversion rates (8% vs11.1%, p = 0.06), length of stay (9 vs 10 days, p = 0.078), unplanned readmission (5.4% vs 8.8%, p = 0.109), and 30- (3.9% vs 3.7%, p = 0.90) and 90-day mortality (5.7% vs 4.7%, p = 0.599). In addition, NT associated with improved survival in patients with cT2N0M0 tumors > 5 cm (HR 0.30, 95% CI 0.17-0.36).

CONCLUSIONS

NT does not appear to increase technical complexity or to adversely affect postoperative outcomes after esophagectomy. Furthermore, minimally invasive esophagectomy is feasible following NT, with comparable conversion rates to those who had upfront surgery. Lastly, NT was selectively associated with improved survival in patients with cT2N0M0 esophageal cancer.

Building a Lung Cancer Screening Program

Lung cancer screening improves lung-cancer specific and potentially overall survival; however, uptake rates are concerningly low. Several barriers to screening exist and require a systemic approach to address. The authors describe their approach toward building a centralized lung cancer screening program at an urban academic center along with lessons learned. To this end, the identification of involved stakeholders, evaluation of community barriers and needs, optimization of the electronic health system, and implementation of system of standardized follow-up for patients are processes for consideration. Perhaps most important to undertaking this endeavor is the need to customize each program and maintain adaptability.

Tumour immune escape via P2X7 receptor signalling

While P2X7 receptor expression on tumour cells has been characterized as a promotor of cancer growth and metastasis, its expression by the host immune system is central for orchestration of both innate and adaptive immune responses against cancer. The role of P2X7R in anti-tumour immunity is complex and preclinical studies have described opposing roles of the P2X7R in regulating immune responses against tumours. Therefore, few P2X7R modulators have reached clinical testing in cancer patients. Here, we review the prognostic value of P2X7R in cancer, how P2X7R have been targeted to date in tumour models, and we discuss four aspects of how tumours skew immune responses to promote immune escape via the P2X7R; non-pore functional P2X7Rs, mono-ADP-ribosyltransferases, ectonucleotidases, and immunoregulatory cells. Lastly, we discuss alternative approaches to offset tumour immune escape via P2X7R to enhance immunotherapeutic strategies in cancer patients.

TIMP1 is an early biomarker for detection and prognosis of lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer remains the major cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Early stages of lung cancer are characterized by long asymptomatic periods that are ineffectively identified with the current screening programs. This deficiency represents a lost opportunity to improve the overall survival of patients. Serum biomarkers are among the most effective strategies for cancer screening and follow up.

METHODS

Using bead-based multiplexing assays we screened plasma and tumours of the KrasG12D/+; Lkb1f/f (KL) mouse model of lung cancer for cytokines that could be used as biomarkers. We identified tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP1) as an early biomarker and validated this finding in the plasma of lung cancer patients. We used immunohistochemistry (IHC), previously published single-cell RNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq data to assess the source and expression of TIMP1in the tumour. The prognostic value of TIMP1 was assessed using publicly available human proteomic and transcriptomic databases.

RESULTS

We found that TIMP1 is a tumour-secreted protein with high sensitivity and specificity for aggressive cancer, even at early stages in mice. We showed that TIMP1 levels in the tumour and serum correlate with tumour burden and worse survival in mice. We validated this finding using clinical samples from our institution and publicly available human proteomic and transcriptomic databases. These data support the finding that high tumour expression of TIMP1 correlates with an unfavorable prognosis in lung cancer patients.

CONCLUSION

TIMP1 is a suitable biomarker for lung cancer detection.

Underutilization of Systemic Therapy in Patients With NSCLC Undergoing Pneumonectomy: A Missed Opportunity for Survival

Introduction

Recent trials have reported promising results with the addition of immunotherapy to chemotherapy for patients with locally advanced NSCLC, but in practice, the proportion of patients who receive systemic therapy (ST) has historically been low. Underutilization of ST may be particularly apparent in patients undergoing pneumonectomy, in whom the physiologic insult and surgical complications may preclude adjuvant therapy (ADJ). We, therefore, evaluated the use of ST for patients with NSCLC undergoing pneumonectomy.

Methods

We queried the National Cancer Database, including all patients with NSCLC who underwent pneumonectomy between 2006 and 2018. Logistic regression was used to identify associations with ST and neo-ADJ (NEO). Overall survival was compared after propensity score matching (1:1) patients undergoing ST to those undergoing surgery alone using Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression methods.

Results

A total of 2619 patients were identified. Among these, 12% received NEO, 43% received ADJ, and 45% surgery alone. Age younger than 65 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.53, 95% confidence interval; [CI]: 1.10-2.11), Asian ethnicity (aOR = 2.68, 95% CI: 1.37-5.23), treatment at a high-volume center (aOR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.06-1.81), and private insurance (aOR = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.05-1.94) were associated with NEO, whereas age younger than 65 years (aOR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.61-2.38), comorbidity index less than or equal to 1 (aOR = 1.66, 95% CI: 1.29-2.16), and private insurance (aOR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.20-1.80) were associated with any ST. In the matched cohort, ST was associated with better survival than surgery (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.58-0.78).

Conclusions

A high proportion of patients who undergo pneumonectomy do not receive ST. Patient and socioeconomic factors are associated with the receipt of ST. Given its survival benefit, emphasis should be placed on multimodal treatment strategies, perhaps with greater consideration given to neoadjuvant approaches.

Surgical Treatment at an Academic Medical Center is Associated with Statistically Insignificant Lung Cancer Survival Outcome Differences Related to ZIP Code

BACKGROUND

Low socioeconomic status is a well-characterized adverse prognostic factor in large lung cancer databases. However, such characterizations may be confounded as patients of lower socioeconomic status are more often treated at low-volume, non-academic centers. We evaluated whether socioeconomic status, as defined by ZIP code median income, was associated with differences in lung cancer resection outcomes within a high-volume academic medical center.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing resection for non-small cell lung cancer were identified from a prospectively maintained database (2011-18). Patients were assigned an income value based on the median income of their ZIP code as determined by census-based geographic data. We stratified the population into income quintiles representative of SES and compared demographics (chi-square), surgical outcomes, and survival (Kaplan-Meier).

RESULTS

We identified 1,693 patients, representing 516 ZIP codes. Income quintiles were Q1: $24,421-53,151; Q2:$53,152-73,982; Q3:$73,983-99,063; Q4:$99,064-123,842; and Q5:$123,843-250,001. Compared to Q5 patients, Q1 patients were younger (median 69 vs. 73, p < 0.001), more likely male (44 vs. 36%, p = 0.035), and more likely Asian, Black, or self-identified as other than white, Asian, or Black. (67 vs. 11%, p =  < 0.001). We found minor differences in surgical outcomes and no significant difference in 5-year survival between Q1 and Q5 patients (5-year: 86 vs. 85%, p = 0.886).

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical care patterns at a high-volume academic medical center are similar among patients from varying ZIP codes. Surgical treatment at such a center is associated with no survival differences based upon socioeconomic status as determined by ZIP code. Centralization of lung cancer surgical care to high-volume centers may reduce socioeconomic outcome disparities.

Extended Lymphadenectomy Improves Survival After Induction Chemoradiation for Esophageal Cancer: A Propensity-Matched Analysis of the National Cancer Database

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to explore the potential value of extended nodal-dissection following neoadjuvant chemoradiation (CRT), by analyzing data from the National Cancer Database (NCDB).

BACKGROUND

A CROSS-trial post-hoc analysis showed that the number of dissected lymph nodes was associated with improved survival in patients undergoing upfront surgery but not in those treated with neoadjuvant CRT.

METHODS

The NCDB was queried (2004-2014) for patients who underwent esophagectomy following induction CRT. Predictors of overall survival (OS) were assessed. The optimal number of dissected LNs associated with highest survival benefit was determined by multiple regression analyses and receiveroperating characteristic curve analysis. The whole cohort was divided into 2 groups based on the predefined cutoff number. The two groups were propensity-matched (PMs).

RESULTS

Esophagectomy following induction-CRT was performed in 14,503 patients. The number of resected nodes was associated with improved OS in the multivariable analysis (hazard ratio for every 10 nodes: 0.95 (95% confidence interval: 0.93-0.98). The cutoff number of resected LNs that was associated with the highest survival benefit was 20 nodes. In the PM groups, patients in the "≥20 LNs" group had a 14% relative-increase in OS ( P = 0.002), despite having more advanced pathological stages (stage II-IV: 76% vs 72%, P < 0.001), and higher number of positive nodes (0-2 vs 0-1, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The total number of resected nodes is a significant determinant of improved survival following induction CRT in patients with either node negative or node positive disease. In the matched groups, patients with higher number of resected lymph nodes had higher OS rate, despite having more advanced pathological disease and higher number of resected positive lymph nodes.

The value of disease-free survival (DFS) and osimertinib in adjuvant non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC): an international Delphi consensus report

Background

Rates of disease recurrence and death following surgery remain high in early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), despite adjuvant treatment and curative intent. Recently, osimertinib showed overwhelming evidence for disease-free survival (DFS), as demonstrated by an overall reduction in the risk of disease recurrence or death in the adjuvant setting of 80% versus control in the ADAURA study (stage IB-IIIA; hazard ratio 0.20; 99.12% confidence interval 0.14-0.30; P < 0.001). However, due to the early unblinding of ADAURA and lack of mature overall survival data, there is a need to qualitatively confirm consensus on the clinical and patient relevance of DFS.

Materials and methods

We conducted a modified Delphi panel study consisting of two rounds of surveys, followed by a consensus meeting. An international panel of experts in the field of NSCLC and epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) (n = 13) was asked to rate agreement and comment on a list of pre-defined statements covering key consensus gaps. Statements were eliminated or updated between surveys, depending on the level of agreement. A final list of agreed-upon statements was drafted in the consensus meeting.

Results

Consensus was reached on 32 qualitative statements, with topics including unmet needs in early-stage NSCLC, the value of DFS, and the value of osimertinib. Crucially, DFS was agreed to be a clinically and patient-relevant endpoint in adjuvant NSCLC. The relevance of DFS was found to relate to the ability of an adjuvant therapy, such as osimertinib, to keep patients in the clinically valuable curative intent setting, while preventing the burden associated with distant and locoregional recurrence, and progressive disease.

Conclusions

Addressing the need for measures that reflect clinical benefit is essential to continue improving outcomes for NSCLC patients. To that end, this work provides a qualitative framework for clinicians to consider the clinical and patient relevance of DFS in adjuvant NSCLC and the benefit demonstrated in ADAURA thus far.

•

There is a need for qualitative consensus assessment of the clinical and patient relevance of DFS in the adjuvant setting.

•

An international panel of experts viewed DFS as a clinically and patient-relevant endpoint in adjuvant NSCLC.

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DFS relevance in adjuvant therapy, e.g. osimertinib, relates to keeping early-stage patients in a curative intent setting.

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Curative intent prevents or significantly delays locoregional and distant (CNS) recurrence burden and progressive disease.

The ART of tumor immune escape

We recently identified the adenosine-5′-diphosphate (ADP)–ribosyltransferase-1 (ART1) as a novel immune checkpoint expressed by cancer cells. ART1 utilizes free nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) to mono-ADP-ribosylate (MARylate) the P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) on CD8 T cells, resulting in NAD-induced cell death (NICD) and tumor immune resistance. This process is blocked by therapeutic antibody targeting of ART1.

Expression of the mono-ADP-ribosyltransferase ART1 by tumor cells mediates immune resistance in non-small cell lung cancer

Most patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) do not achieve durable clinical responses from immune checkpoint inhibitors, suggesting the existence of additional resistance mechanisms. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)-induced cell death (NICD) of P2X7 receptor (P2X7R)-expressing T cells regulates immune homeostasis in inflamed tissues. This process is mediated by mono-adenosine 5'-diphosphate (ADP)-ribosyltransferases (ARTs). We found an association between membranous expression of ART1 on tumor cells and reduced CD8 T cell infiltration. Specifically, we observed a reduction in the P2X7R⁺ CD8 T cell subset in human lung adenocarcinomas. In vitro, P2X7R⁺ CD8 T cells were susceptible to ART1-mediated ADP-ribosylation and NICD, which was exacerbated upon blockade of the NAD⁺-degrading ADP-ribosyl cyclase CD38. Last, in murine NSCLC and melanoma models, we demonstrate that genetic and antibody-mediated ART1 inhibition slowed tumor growth in a CD8 T cell-dependent manner. This was associated with increased infiltration of activated P2X7R⁺CD8 T cells into tumors. In conclusion, we describe ART1-mediated NICD as a mechanism of immune resistance in NSCLC and provide preclinical evidence that antibody-mediated targeting of ART1 can improve tumor control, supporting pursuit of this approach in clinical studies.

Minimally Invasive Surgery for Lung Cancer Following Neoadjuvant Therapy in the United States

Introduction: Pulmonary resections following neoadjuvant therapy (NT) can be technically demanding. There is a paucity of data regarding the use of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) approaches in that setting on the National level. In this study, we explored the trends of using MIS approaches following NT and its associated outcomes. Methods: The study included all adult patients with non-small cell lung cancer who underwent pulmonary resection following NT between 2010 and 2016. Propensity score (PS) matching (MIS versus open) was performed and the perioperative outcomes were compared. Results: The study included 11,287 patients who underwent pulomonary resection after NT. The percentage of patients undergoing MIS lung resection and the number of hospitals performing one or more MIS increased from 19% and 166 (2010) to 41% and 305 (2016), respectively. When compared with thoracotomy, MIS lung resections were more frequently performed in academic centers in patients with higher income (P < .001). In PS matched groups, the use of MIS was associated with shorter hospital length of stay (5 days versus 6 days; P < .001), compared with open approach. However, there were no differences between the two groups in readmission rate (P = .513), or 30-/90-day mortality (P = .145/.685). In multivariable regression analysis, MIS approach was not associated with worse long-term, all-cause, survival (confidence interval: 0.91-1.09). Conclusion: The use of MIS approaches after NT increased significantly over the study period and was associated with perioperative outcomes and long-term survival comparable to those noted with the open approach.

Outcomes Following Surgical Resection of Early-Stage Lung Adenocarcinomas with EGFR mutations

BACKGROUND

Routine mutation profiling for resected lung cancers is not widespread despite an increasing array of targeted therapies. We report the incidence of EGFR mutations (EGFRmu+) in resected lung adenocarcinomas and their outcomes at a large, North American cancer center to characterize this population now eligible for targeted adjuvant therapy.

METHODS

Among 1036 pulmonary resections performed between 2015-2019, 647 (62%) patients had adenocarcinomas that underwent molecular profiling by next-generation sequencing. Clinical and pathologic characteristics, along with survival, were analyzed.

RESULTS

EGFRmu+ were identified in 238 (37%) patients. Patients with EGFRmu+ were more likely to be Asian than those with EGFR wild-type (79/238 (33%) vs. 37/409 (9%), p<0.001) and more likely to be never-smokers (115/238 (48%) vs. 73/409 (18%), p<0.001). However, the majority of patients with EGFRmu+ in our cohort were white (45%) and had a history of smoking (52%). There was a statistically non-significant trend towards improved 3-yr overall survival for pStage IB-III cancers with EGFRmu+ (91% vs. 77%, p=0.09). Patients with pStage IB lung cancers with EGFRmu+ had a 97% 3-year disease-free survival, with only 1 recurrence in the first 3 years of follow-up. EGFR mutation subtype was not associated with survival differences.

CONCLUSIONS

While Asian, never-smokers comprise a disproportionately large group of patients with lung adenocarcinomas with EGFRmu+, the majority of EGFR mutations within our cohort were found in patients who are white or with a smoking history, supporting a routine, rather than selective approach to mutation profiling. Patients with surgically resected stage IA and IB lung adenocarcinomas enjoy excellent survival regardless of their mutational status.

Sublobar resection is comparable to lobectomy for screen-detected lung cancer

OBJECTIVE

Sublobar resection is frequently offered to patients with small, peripheral lung cancers, despite the lack of outcome data from ongoing randomized clinical trials. Sublobar resection may be a particularly attractive surgical strategy for screen-detected lung cancers, which have been suggested to be less biologically aggressive than cancers detected by other means. Using prospective data collected from patients undergoing surgery in the National Lung Screening Trial, we sought to determine whether extent of resection affected survival for patients with screen-detected lung cancer.

METHODS

The National Lung Screening Trial database was queried for patients who underwent surgical resection for confirmed lung cancer. Propensity score matching analysis (lobectomy vs sublobar resection) was done (nearest neighbor, 1:1, matching with no replacement, caliper 0.2). Demographics, clinicopathologic and perioperative outcomes, and long-term survival were compared in the entire cohort and in the propensity-matched groups. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was done to identify factors associated with increased postoperative morbidity or mortality.

RESULTS

We identified 1029 patients who underwent resection for lung cancer in the National Lung Screening Trial, including 821 patients (80%) who had lobectomy and 166 patients (16%) who had sublobar resection, predominantly wedge resection (n = 114, 69% of sublobar resection). Patients who underwent sublobar resection were more likely to be female (53% vs 41%, P = .004) and had smaller tumors (1.5 cm vs 2 cm, P < .001). The sublobar resection group had fewer postoperative complications (22% vs 32%, P = .010) and fewer cardiac complications (4% vs 9%, P = .033). For stage I patients undergoing sublobar resection, there was no difference in 5-year overall survival (77% for both groups, P = .89) or cancer-specific survival (83% for both groups, P = .96) compared with patients undergoing lobectomy. On multivariable logistic regression analysis, sublobar resection was the only factor associated with lower postoperative morbidity/mortality (odds ratio, 0.63; 95% confidence interval, 0.40-0.98). To compare surgical strategies in balanced patient populations, we propensity matched 127 patients from each group undergoing sublobar resection and lobectomy. There were no differences in demographics or clinical and tumor characteristics among matched groups. There was again no difference in 5-year overall survival (71% vs 65%, P = .40) or cancer-specific survival (75% vs 73%, P = .89) for patients undergoing lobectomy and sublobar resection, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

For patients with screen-detected lung cancer, sublobar resection confers survival similar to lobectomy. By decreasing perioperative complications and potentially preserving lung function, sublobar resection may provide distinct advantages in a screened patient cohort.

Neoadjuvant durvalumab with or without stereotactic body radiotherapy in patients with early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer: a single-centre, randomised phase 2 trial

BACKGROUND

Previous phase 2 trials of neoadjuvant anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-L1 monotherapy in patients with early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer have reported major pathological response rates in the range of 15-45%. Evidence suggests that stereotactic body radiotherapy might be a potent immunomodulator in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this trial, we aimed to evaluate the use of stereotactic body radiotherapy in patients with early-stage NSCLC as an immunomodulator to enhance the anti-tumour immune response associated with the anti-PD-L1 antibody durvalumab.

METHODS

We did a single-centre, open-label, randomised, controlled, phase 2 trial, comparing neoadjuvant durvalumab alone with neoadjuvant durvalumab plus stereotactic radiotherapy in patients with early-stage NSCLC, at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medical Center (New York, NY, USA). We enrolled patients with potentially resectable early-stage NSCLC (clinical stages I-IIIA as per the 7th edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer) who were aged 18 years or older with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0 or 1. Eligible patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to either neoadjuvant durvalumab monotherapy or neoadjuvant durvalumab plus stereotactic body radiotherapy (8 Gy × 3 fractions), using permuted blocks with varied sizes and no stratification for clinical or molecular variables. Patients, treating physicians, and all study personnel were unmasked to treatment assignment after all patients were randomly assigned. All patients received two cycles of durvalumab 3 weeks apart at a dose of 1·12 g by intravenous infusion over 60 min. Those in the durvalumab plus radiotherapy group also received three consecutive daily fractions of 8 Gy stereotactic body radiotherapy delivered to the primary tumour immediately before the first cycle of durvalumab. Patients without systemic disease progression proceeded to surgical resection. The primary endpoint was major pathological response in the primary tumour. All analyses were done on an intention-to-treat basis. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrial.gov, NCT02904954, and is ongoing but closed to accrual.

FINDINGS

Between Jan 25, 2017, and Sept 15, 2020, 96 patients were screened and 60 were enrolled and randomly assigned to either the durvalumab monotherapy group (n=30) or the durvalumab plus radiotherapy group (n=30). 26 (87%) of 30 patients in each group had their tumours surgically resected. Major pathological response was observed in two (6·7% [95% CI 0·8-22·1]) of 30 patients in the durvalumab monotherapy group and 16 (53·3% [34·3-71·7]) of 30 patients in the durvalumab plus radiotherapy group. The difference in the major pathological response rates between both groups was significant (crude odds ratio 16·0 [95% CI 3·2-79·6]; p<0·0001). In the 16 patients in the dual therapy group with a major pathological response, eight (50%) had a complete pathological response. The second cycle of durvalumab was withheld in three (10%) of 30 patients in the dual therapy group due to immune-related adverse events (grade 3 hepatitis, grade 2 pancreatitis, and grade 3 fatigue and thrombocytopaenia). Grade 3-4 adverse events occurred in five (17%) of 30 patients in the durvalumab monotherapy group and six (20%) of 30 patients in the durvalumab plus radiotherapy group. The most frequent grade 3-4 events were hyponatraemia (three [10%] patients in the durvalumab monotherapy group) and hyperlipasaemia (three [10%] patients in the durvalumab plus radiotherapy group). Two patients in each group had serious adverse events (pulmonary embolism [n=1] and stroke [n=1] in the durvalumab monotherapy group, and pancreatitis [n=1] and fatigue [n=1] in the durvalumab plus radiotherapy group). No treatment-related deaths or deaths within 30 days of surgery were reported.

INTERPRETATION

Neoadjuvant durvalumab combined with stereotactic body radiotherapy is well tolerated, safe, and associated with a high major pathological response rate. This neoadjuvant strategy should be validated in a larger trial.

FUNDING

AstraZeneca.

Social Media and Your Cancer Patient

In an increasingly connected world, healthcare is rapidly evolving to meet the needs of a growing patient population seeking information online. In the past few years, social media has erupted as a means of dissemination of health-related information between patients and healthcare providers alike. Patients online have access to communities and expert-opinion previously inaccessible. Cancer patients especially are empowered through online knowledge acquisition and interactions with support groups or advocacy groups. As patients continue seeking information online, social media has increasingly been recognized as an important potential physician-patient interface. Healthcare provider's presence on social media is growing to meet this need. Providers can utilize social media to easily reach patients to promote health-related information, guide important conversations like the importance of cancer screening and even improve health-related behaviors. Social media can also aid in conducting research through cultivation of networking, patient recruitment, and promotion of rapid dissemination of new results. Whether through "Tweet chats" or conference hashtags, the most up to date information is easily accessible and rapidly transmissible. Social media is positioned to bridge a gap of communication and accessibility between 21st century patients and physicians.

National trends and perioperative outcomes of robotic oesophagectomy following induction chemoradiation therapy: a National Cancer Database propensity-matched analysis

OBJECTIVES

Oesophagectomy following induction chemoradiation therapy (CRT) is technically challenging. To date, little data exist to describe the feasibility of a robotic approach in this setting. In this study, we assessed national trends and outcomes of robotic oesophagectomy following induction CRT compared to the traditional open approach.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database was queried for patients who underwent oesophagectomy following induction CRT (2010-2014). Trends of robotic utilization were assessed by a Mantel-Haenszel test of trend. Propensity matching controlled for differences in age, gender, comorbidity, stage, histology and tumour location between the robotic and open groups. Overall survival was estimated by Kaplan-Meier analysis and compared by a log-rank test.

RESULTS

Oesophagectomy following induction CRT was performed in 6958 patients. Of them, 555 patients (8%) underwent robotic surgery (5% converted to an open approach). Between 2010 and 2014, utilization of a robotic approach increased from 3% to 11% (Mantel-Haenszel, P < 0.001) and the number of hospitals performing at least 1 robotic oesophagectomy increased from 23 to 57. Compared to the traditional open approach, robotic oesophagectomy was used more frequently at academic hospitals (76% vs 60%, P < 0.001), and in patients living in metropolitan areas (85% vs 77%, P < 0.001) and those living in the Midwest (41% vs 33%, P < 0.001). In the matched groups, a robotic approach was associated with shorter median hospital stay (9 vs 10 days, P = 0.004) and dissection of more lymph nodes (median, 16 vs 12, P < 0.001). However, there were no differences in rates of positive margin resection (5% for both groups, P = 0.95), 30-day readmissions (5% vs 7%, P = 0.18), 30-day mortality (2.5% vs 4%, P = 0.79), 90-day mortality (9% vs 8.5%, P = 0.89) or 5-year overall survival (42% vs 39%, P = 0.19) between patients undergoing robotic and open surgery, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Robotic oesophagectomy after induction CRT is feasible and associated with shorter hospitalization compared to an open approach, and does not compromise the adequacy of oncological resection, perioperative outcomes or long-term survival.

Do individual surgeon volumes affect outcomes in thoracic surgery?†

OBJECTIVES

Minimum volume standards for thoracic surgical procedures have been advocated to improve outcomes. However, such standards are controversial within the thoracic surgery literature, and the methodology to determine cut points between high- and low-volume hospitals has been criticized. Furthermore, while multiple studies have examined hospital volume and its relationship with outcomes, there have been very few attempts to study this issue from the perspective of the individual thoracic surgeon. The aim of this study was to determine if surgeon volume is associated with differences in outcomes using a large state-wide database.

METHODS

The study utilized the New York State Department of Health Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative (SPARCS) data for analysis. Patients who underwent major lung resections including sublobar resection, lobectomy and pneumonectomy from 1995 to 2014 were included and were categorized into 3 subgroups based on the extent of resection. Patient characteristics included age, gender, race, insurance and comorbidities. Surgeon information was obtained by using a unique identifier. Average annual surgical volumes of sublobar resection, lobectomy and pneumonectomy were calculated separately and grouped into 3 categories based on the tertiles. Demographic data and comorbidities were compared between the various volume groups to analyse the resulting complications. Primary outcomes were in-hospital mortality and 30-day readmission.

RESULTS

There were a total of 99 576 major lung resections performed between 1995 and 2014 in the SPARCS database. Among these, the majority were wedge or segmental resections (n = 54 953, 55.2%) followed by lobectomy (n = 40 421, 40.6%) and pneumonectomy (n = 4202, 4.2%). In-hospital mortality was significantly greater for low-volume surgeons compared to high-volume surgeons for all resection groups. Additionally, low-volume surgeons had higher 30-day readmission rates for patients undergoing lobectomy and pneumonectomy. However, low-volume surgeons as a group were more likely to operate on black patients and patients with Medicaid, and black race was an independent predictor of mortality across all resection groups. The vast majority of surgeons performing lobectomy (89.5%) were in the low-volume group.

CONCLUSIONS

Low-volume surgeons had higher rates of in-hospital mortality compared to their high-volume counterparts. However, the vast majority of surgeons performing lobectomy (89.5%) were in the low-volume group, and low-volume surgeons operated on higher percentages of black patients. These findings suggest that minimal volume standards would significantly impact the current delivery of thoracic surgery in the US.

Sublobar resection for node-negative lung cancer 2-5 cm in size

OBJECTIVES

Sublobar resection (SLR) is an alternative to lobectomy for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Outcomes following SLR for tumours >2 cm are not well described. We sought to determine the utilization of SLR for stage I tumours >2-5 cm in size and to determine predictors of outcome.

METHODS

We utilized the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Program (SEER)-Medicare database to identify NSCLC patients with primary lung cancer ≥66 years old with stage I cancers >2-5 cm in size. We evaluated overall survival and cancer-specific survival among cohorts undergoing lobectomy versus SLR. Propensity score matching was performed. We compared patient characteristics and survival between groups.

RESULTS

For the study time period (2007-2012), among patients with tumours >2 cm and ≤5 cm (n = 4582), 3890 lobectomies (85%) and 692 SLR (15%) were performed. Patients undergoing SLR were older, had smaller tumours and more comorbidities. Patients undergoing lobectomy were much more likely to have any lymph nodes removed (95.6% vs 65.6%, P < 0.001) and to have >10 nodes removed (29.6% vs 7.5%, P < 0.001). All-cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 1.65, confidence interval (CI) 1.48-1.85] and cancer-specific (HR 1.63, CI 1.29-2.06) mortality were higher following SLR. At 3 years, overall survival (60.9%, CI 57.0-64.6% vs 54.4%, CI 50.4-58.2%) and cancer-specific survival (87.3%, CI 83.5-90.3% vs 76.5%, CI 71.0-81.1%) favoured lobectomy over SLR. In propensity-matched groups, both all-cause (HR 1.27, CI 1.10-1.47) and cancer-specific (HR 1.54, CI 1.11-2.16) mortality rates were higher with SLR.

CONCLUSIONS

In pathologically staged patients, SLR appears inferior to lobectomy for stage I NSCLC 2-5 cm in size. SLR is associated with less extensive lymphadenectomy and with worse survival than lobectomy in this cohort of patients. However, the 76.5% 3-year cancer-specific survival in patients undergoing SLR may exceed that of other localized treatment options for NSCLC. As such, SLR may be an appropriate option for high-risk patients with carefully staged 2-5 cm N0 tumours.

Treatment of cT3N1M0/IIIA non-small cell lung cancer and the risk of underuse of surgery

OBJECTIVE

Surgery may be underused for stage IIIA non-small cell lung cancer. Although an argument can be made for definitive chemoradiation for N2/3 mediastinal nodal disease, the role of a nonsurgical strategy is less clear in patients with cT3N1M0 stage IIIA given a lack of randomized data. We sought to determine the outcomes of patients with cT3N1M0 by treatment type from the National Cancer Database.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database (2004-2014) was queried for patients with cT3N1M0 non-small cell lung cancer, known treatment modalities, and sequence. Comparisons between groups were performed using Mann-Whitney and chi-square tests. Cox regression was performed to identify predictors of overall survival. Propensity score matching analysis was performed to compare overall survival in surgery versus definitive chemoradiation.

RESULTS

We identified 1937 patients undergoing surgery (1518 up-front and 419 after neoadjuvant treatment) and 1844 patients undergoing definitive chemoradiation. Among patients undergoing surgery without prior treatment, 19% were overstaged and were found to have pN0, whereas 9.6% had pN2/3. Median overall survival was 33.1 months in the surgery group (± adjuvant/neoadjuvant) versus 18 months in definitive chemoradiation. To compare outcomes in balanced groups, we propensity matched 1081 pairs of patients. Median overall survival was 31.1 months in the surgery group compared with 19.1 months in the definitive chemoradiation group (P < .001). By multivariable analysis, surgery (hazard ratio, 0.65; confidence interval, 0.59-0.73), female sex (hazard ratio, 0.88; confidence interval, 0.79-0.98), age (hazard ratio, 1.02; confidence interval, 1.01-1.03), squamous histology (hazard ratio, 1.22; confidence interval, 1.07-1.38), and Charlson score of 2 (hazard ratio, 1.31; confidence interval, 1.11-1.54) were predictors of survival.

CONCLUSIONS

In the National Cancer Database, approximately half of patients with clinical T3N1M0 were treated with definitive chemoradiation rather than surgery. This practice should be avoided in operable patients, because surgical resection is associated with better survival.

Rural-Urban Differences in Access to Thoracic Surgery in the United States, 2010 to 2014

BACKGROUND

Because of recent lung cancer screening recommendations and corresponding insurance coverage, it is expected that more early stage cases will be identified that require thoracic surgery. However, these services may not be equally available in all regions. Our objective is to describe the availability of thoracic surgeons by examining geographic variation, rural-urban differences, and temporal changes before and after screening recommendation and insurance coverage policy changes.

METHODS

We examined the U.S. thoracic surgery workforce using the 2010 and 2014 Area Health Resource Files. We calculated the density of thoracic surgeons per 100,000 persons for each year at the state and county level. We performed descriptive statistics and developed maps highlighting changes over time and geographic regions.

RESULTS

Despite an overall increase in thoracic surgeons from 2010 to 2014, we observed declining density nationwide (1.5% change) and in sparsely populated states. The difference in thoracic surgeon density widened slightly between 2010 from 0.80 per 100,000 compared with 0.84 per 100,000 in 2014 in all rural counties compared with urban counties (P < .001 for both years). The difference in thoracic surgeon density was most pronounced between small adjacent rural and urban counties (0.95 and 0.96 per 100,000 for 2010 and 2014, respectively; P < .001 for both years). The Northeast held a disproportionate share of the thoracic surgery workforce.

CONCLUSIONS

Limited access to thoracic surgeons in rural areas is a concern, given an older and retiring surgical workforce, the higher burden of lung cancer in rural areas, and recent policy changes for screening reimbursement.

Intercostal artery hemorrhage with hemothorax following combined lateral and posterior lumbar interbody fusion: a case report

Introduction

Lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) is a safe treatment for degenerative spine conditions. However, risk of complications such as vascular injuries remains. We report a unique case of an intercostal artery (ICA) hemorrhage with hemothorax following LLIF.

Case presentation

One hour after a right-sided LLIF L3-4 with posterior decompression L2-4 and L3-5 instrumentation, the patient became hypotensive, anemic and required vasopressor support. Evaluation revealed a right-sided hemothorax, which was caused by a bleeding intercostal artery, laterally at the 10th intercostal space. A lateral thoracotomy was performed to stop the bleeding. After vessel ligation and placement of two chest tubes, the patients' hemodynamics improved. The patient remained intubated overnight and was extubated on the first postoperative day.

Discussion

Vascular injury is a rare complication of LLIF procedures. Most vascular injuries are segmental vessel lacerations, which resolve postoperatively. This is the first case description of ICA bleeding associated with LLIF surgery. Spontaneous ICA bleeding exists, but surgeons should be aware of careful handling in patients with vascular risk factors, especially with regard to patient positioning required in certain spinal surgical approaches. Timely vascular injury identification is critical for hemostasis and clinical management.

Adjuvant Therapy for Node-Positive Esophageal Cancer After Induction and Surgery: A Multisite Study

BACKGROUND

The benefit of adjuvant treatment for esophageal cancer patients with positive lymph nodes after induction therapy and esophagectomy is uncertain. This in-depth multicenter study assessed the benefit of adjuvant therapy in this population.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study from 9 institutions included patients who received neoadjuvant treatment, underwent esophagectomy from 2000 to 2014, and had positive lymph nodes on pathology. Factors associated with administration of adjuvant therapy were assessed using multilevel random-intercept modeling to account for institutional variation in practice. Kaplan-Meier analyses were performed based on adjuvant treatment status. Variables associated with survival were identified using Cox proportional hazards modeling.

RESULTS

The study analyzed 1082 patients with node-positive cancer after induction therapy and esophagectomy: 209 (19.3%) received adjuvant therapy and 873 (80.7%) did not. Administration of adjuvant treatment varied significantly from 3.2% to 50.0% between sites (P < .001). Accounting for institution effect, factors associated with administration of adjuvant therapy included clinically positive and negative prognostic characteristics: younger age, higher pathologic stage, pathologic grade, no neoadjuvant radiotherapy nonsmoking status, and absence of postoperative infection. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed patients receiving adjuvant therapy had a longer median survival of 2.6 years vs 2.3 years (P = .02). Cox modeling identified adjuvant treatment as independently associated with improved survival, with a 24% reduction in mortality (hazard ratio, 0.76; P = .005).

CONCLUSIONS

Adjuvant therapy was associated with improved overall survival. Therefore, consideration should be given to administration of adjuvant therapy to esophageal cancer patients who have persistent node-positive disease after induction therapy and esophagectomy and are able to tolerate additional treatment.

Role of wedge resection in bronchial carcinoid (BC) tumors: SEER database analysis

Background

There is a paucity of data regarding the role of wedge resection (WR) in the management of bronchial carcinoid (BC) tumors. In this study, we queried the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database to compare the oncologic outcomes of patients with BC tumors treated with WR or anatomic resection.

Methods

The SEER database was retrospectively reviewed for patients with BC treated with surgical resection between 1973-2013. Patients who underwent WR were compared to those who underwent lobectomy or segmentectomy (Lob/Seg). Patients with multiple primaries and those who underwent pneumonectomy or have an unspecified surgical procedure were excluded. Differences in demographics and clinicopathological data were compared using Chi (χ²) test or Mann Whitney U test. Overall and cancer specific survival (OS, CSS) were estimated using Kaplan-Meier method and differences were compared using log-rank test. Cox-regression multivariable analysis (MVA) was performed to explore factors associated with worse CSS. Propensity-score matching analysis was done to compare survival differences between WR and Lob/Seg.

Results

A total of 22,350 patients with BC were identified, of them 4,450 met our inclusion criteria (3,511 Lob/Seg, vs. 939 WR). The median age was 59.0 years [interquartile range (IQR) =49.0-68.0], 67.6% were females and the median tumor size was 2 cm (1.5-3 cm). 4,119 patients had typical carcinoid (TC) and 331 had atypical carcinoid (AC). WR was performed more frequently in elderly patients, females, lower lobe tumors, TC's and in earlier stage disease. For patients with TC, there was no difference in CSS between WR and Lob/Seg in both the entire cohort (P=0.654) and in the propensity matched groups (P=0.900). However, for patients with AC, Lob/Seg was associated with better CSS compared to WR both in the entire cohort (P<0.001) and in the propensity matched groups (P=0.001). On MVA of the entire cohort, elderly patients, males, blacks, AC and advanced stages had worse CSS. While, the type of the procedure (WR vs. Lob/Seg) was not associated with CSS (HR =1.16, 95% CI: 0.85-1.60).

Conclusions

A WR may offer equivalent CSS in well-selected patients with early-stage TC. An anatomic resection appears warranted in AC.

T1N0 oesophageal cancer: patterns of care and outcomes over 25 years

OBJECTIVES

Historically, surgical resection has been the mainstay of treatment for T1N0 oesophageal cancer (OC). More recently, oesophageal sparing endoscopic techniques have shown value for local control in a large institutional series. However, the effect of their utilization upon survival rates in large population series is largely unknown.

METHODS

The surveillance, epidemiology, and end results (SEER) database was queried for T1N0M0-OC patients (1988-2013). Patients with multiple treatment types were excluded. Time periods were divided by 5-year increments. Overall survival and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were compared in the group as a whole and in propensity-matched subgroups. Independent predictors of cancer-specific mortality were studied by the Cox proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

We identified 5497 patients with cT1N0M0 OC. Treatment modalities used were changed significantly over time. The ratio of oesophagectomy when compared with local therapy decreased from 15:1 in 1998-92 to 1.4:1 in 2008-13. The proportion of patients treated with radiation slightly increased (35% vs 41%) between 1988-92 and 2008-13. In the propensity-matched groups, 5-year CSS was similar in patients treated with oesophagectomy and local therapy (81% vs 89%; P = 0.257) (n = 216 in each group), whereas oesophagectomy had superior 5-year CSS compared with radiation alone (73% vs 38%; P < 0.001) (n = 497 in each group). In multivariable analysis, significant predictors of cancer-specific mortality included age [hazard ratio (HR) 1.022], tumour size (HR 1.005), radiation therapy (HR 3.67), tumour Grade III/IV (HR 1.25) and early time period of diagnosis (HR 1.75).

CONCLUSIONS

Oesophageal sparing endoscopic techniques have been increasingly utilized in the treatment of cT1N0-OC but without compromising CSS. Local therapy, either endoscopic techniques or surgery, remains superior to radiation therapy.

Extent of lymphadenectomy is associated with oncological efficacy of sublobar resection for lung cancer ≤2 cm

BACKGROUND

Sublobar resection (SLR) is an alternative to lobectomy for early non-small cell lung cancer. Comparative effectiveness of these 2 approaches might be modified by the extent of lymph node dissection.

METHODS

We utilized the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program-Medicare dataset to identify patients with stage I non-small cell lung cancer aged 66 years or older with tumor size ≤2 cm. We compared patient characteristics with t tests for continuous variables and χ² tests for categorical variables. Kaplan-Meier curves were constructed to determine overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS). We evaluated OS and CSS among propensity-matched cohorts undergoing lobectomy versus SLR, particularly as it related to extent of lymphadenectomy.

RESULTS

Among 2757 lobectomies and 1229 SLR procedures performed for stage I tumors ≤2 cm, we propensity-matched 1124 patients from each group. Patients undergoing SLR were more likely to have no lymph nodes sampled (46.9% vs 6.4%; P < .001). OS (hazard ratio [HR], 1.48; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.29-1.69) and CSS (HR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.41-3.02) were worse following SLR. When propensity-matched cohorts of patients with at least 1 lymph node removed (n = 567 each group) were examined, the HRs for survival for SLR decreased (OS HR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.12-1.69; CSS HR, 1.58; 95% CI, 0.97-2.57). Finally, when cohorts were propensity matched for ≥9 lymph nodes examined (n = 103 each group), there was no difference in OS (HR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.50-1.39) or CSS (HR, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.35-3.41).

CONCLUSIONS

SLR leads to fewer lymph node removed and is associated with inferior survival compared with lobectomy. A more extensive lymphadenectomy may be associated with equivalent survival between matched patients undergoing SLR and lobectomy.

Never smokers with resected lung cancer: different demographics, similar survival

OBJECTIVES

We sought to examine changes over time in the proportion of never smokers among surgical lung cancer patients and to determine whether smoking history affected survival.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of a prospective database. Among never smokers and smokers, demographic and pathological data were compared. Disease-free survival (DFS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were analysed. Propensity matching was performed for further comparison of survival in a matched cohort.

RESULTS

Among 3232 patients, we identified 718 never smokers (22%), 993 smokers with <30 pack history (31%) and 1521 smokers with ≥30 pack history (47%). The proportion of never smokers increased over time, comprising 26.6% of the cohort after 2007 compared with 16.1% prior thereto (P ≤ 0.001). Never smokers were younger, more likely to be women and Asian, more frequently had adenocarcinoma and lower lobe tumours and were more likely to have pStage I disease. In pStage-matched cohorts, there were no differences in DFS or CSS. Similarly, in propensity-matched groups (498 patients each), there was no difference in 5-year DFS (66% vs 67%, P = 0.661) or in CSS (84% vs 81%, P = 0.350). On univariate analysis of the matched cohort, never smoking status had no effect on DFS (hazard ratio 1.05, P = 0.661) or CSS (hazard ratio 1.16, P = 0.350).

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion of never smokers undergoing resections for lung cancer is increasing. Never smokers have distinct demographic patterns and tend to be younger women with adenocarcinoma. Despite these differences, stage and propensity-matched never smokers have the same survival as smokers and remain at equal risk for recurrence and death.

Segmentectomy Is Equivalent to Lobectomy in Hypermetabolic Clinical Stage IA Lung Adenocarcinomas

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have suggested that lobectomy and segmentectomy hold equivalent oncologic outcomes, particularly for small, peripheral, subsolid nodules. However, for hypermetabolic nodules that are frequently associated with high rates of nodal disease, recurrence, or mortality, the optimum oncologic procedure was not assessed. We hypothesize that for hypermetabolic, cT1 N0 adenocarcinoma, lobectomy and segmentectomy are associated with comparable outcomes.

METHODS

A prospectively collected database was queried for patients with clinical stage IA lung adenocarcinoma who underwent lobectomy or segmentectomy (2000 to 2016) for hypermetabolic tumors (maximum standard uptake value [SUVmax] ≥ 3g/dL). To obtain balanced groups of patients, a propensity matching analysis was done.

RESULTS

A total of 414 patients had hypermetabolic tumors and underwent lobectomy or segmentectomy. Patients were propensity matched (4:1) (lobectomy: n = 156, segmentectomy: n = 46). Patients in the lobectomy group had a higher rate of pathologic nodal upstaging (17% versus 7%, p = 0.085) and a higher pathologic upstaging rate (38% versus 26%, p = 0.143) than the segmentectomy group. In addition, the lobectomy group had a higher number of resected lymph nodes than the segmentectomy group (median lymph nodes resected: 14 versus 7, p < 0.001). No differences were found in in 5-year recurrence-free survival (RFS; 72% versus 69%, p = 0.679) or in 5-year cancer-specific survival (CSS; 92% versus 83%, p = 0.557) between patients who underwent lobectomy or segmentectomy, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data show that lobectomy and segmentectomy are comparable oncologic procedures for patients with carefully staged cT1 N0 lung adenocarcinoma with hypermetabolic tumors (SUVmax ≥ 3g/dL). Although lobectomy was associated with a more thorough lymph node dissection, this did not translate into a higher rate of RFS or CSS compared with segmentectomy.

Screening for Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a global health burden and is among the most common and deadliest of all malignancies worldwide. The goal of screening programs is to detect tumors in earlier, curable stages, consequently reducing disease-specific mortality. The issue of screening has great relevance to thoracic surgeons, who should play a leading role in the debate over screening and its consequences. The burden is on thoracic surgeons to work in a multidisciplinary setting to guide and treat these patients safely and responsibly, ensuring low morbidity and mortality of potential diagnostic or therapeutic interventions.

Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy for Early-Stage Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: American Society of Clinical Oncology Endorsement of the American Society for Radiation Oncology Evidence-Based Guideline

Purpose The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) produced an evidence-based guideline on treatment with stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for patients with early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer. ASCO has a policy and set of procedures for endorsing and/or adapting clinical practice guidelines that have been developed by other professional organizations. Methods The ASTRO Evidence-Based Guideline for Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy for Early-Stage Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer was reviewed for developmental rigor by methodologists. An ASCO Expert Panel updated the literature search and reviewed the guideline content and recommendations. Results The ASCO Expert Panel determined that the recommendations from the ASTRO guideline, published in 2017, are clear, thorough, and based on the most relevant scientific evidence. ASCO statements and minor modifications were added to enhance the applicability of the ASTRO guideline for the broader ASCO audience. Recommendations For standard operative risk patients with stage I NSCLC, SBRT is not recommended outside of a clinical trial. Lobectomy with systematic lymph node evaluation remains the recommended treatment, although a sublobar resection may be considered in select clinical scenarios. Recommendations are provided regarding the use of SBRT in high operative risk patients and for inoperative patients, including in challenging scenarios where tumors are: centrally located, > 5 cm in diameter, lacking tissue diagnosis, synchronous primary or multifocal, second primary after pneumonectomy, proximal to or involved with mediastinal structures, abutting the chest wall, or recurring after previous treatment. Qualifying statements are included to provide further guidance for implementation, and the importance of a discussion of treatment options among members of the multidisciplinary cancer care team is emphasized. Additional information is available at: www.asco.org/thoracic-cancer-guidelines and www.asco.org/guidelineswiki .

Expression of the receptor for hyaluronic acid mediated motility (RHAMM) is associated with poor prognosis and metastasis in non-small cell lung carcinoma

The receptor for hyaluronic acid-mediated motility (RHAMM) is upregulated in various cancers, but its role in primary and metastatic non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) remains to be determined. Here, we investigate the clinical relevance of RHAMM expression in NSCLC. RHAMM protein expression correlates with histological differentiation stages and extent of the primary tumor (T stages) in 156 patients with primary NSCLC. Importantly, while focal RHAMM staining pattern is present in 57% of primary NSCLC, intense RHAMM protein expression is present in 96% of metastatic NSCLC cases. In a publicly available database, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), RHAMM mRNA expression is 12- and 10-fold higher in lung adenocarcinoma and squamous lung carcinoma than in matched normal lung tissues, respectively. RHAMM mRNA expression correlates with stages of differentiation and inferior survival in more than 400 cases of lung adenocarcinoma in the Director's Challenge cohort. Of 4 RHAMM splice variants, RHAMMv3 (also known as RHAMMB) is the dominant variant in NSCLC. Moreover, shRNA-mediated knockdown of RHAMM reduced the migratory ability of two lung adenocarcinoma cell lines, H1975 and H3255. Taken together, RHAMM, most likely RHAMMv3 (RHAMMB), can serve as a prognostic factor for lung adenocarcinomas and a potential therapeutic target in NSCLC to inhibit tumor migration.