The Role of Lymphadenectomy in the Treatment of Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Upper Urinary Tract

Location of Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Metastases in Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma: Results from a Prospective Lymph Node Mapping Study

Background

There is limited information on the distribution of retroperitoneal lymph node metastases (LNMs) in upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC).

Objective

To investigate the location of LNMs in UTUC of the renal pelvis or proximal ureter and short-term complications after radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) with lymph node dissection (LND).

Design setting and participants

This was a prospective Nordic multicenter study (four university hospitals, two county hospitals). Patients with clinically suspected locally advanced UTUC (stage >T1) and/or clinical lymph node-positive (cN+) disease were invited to participate. Participants underwent RNU and fractionated retroperitoneal LND using predefined side-specific templates.

Outcome measurements and statistical analysis

The location of LNMs in the LND specimen and retroperitoneal lymph node recurrences during follow-up was recorded. Postoperative complications within 90 d of surgery were ascertained from patient charts. Descriptive statistics were used.

Results and limitations

LNMs were present in the LND specimen in 23/100 patients, and nine of 100 patients experienced a retroperitoneal recurrence. Distribution per side revealed LNMs in the LND specimen in 11/38 (29%) patients with right-sided tumors, for whom the anatomically larger, right-sided template was used, in comparison to 12/62 (19%) patients with left-sided tumors, for whom a more limited template was used. High-grade complications (Clavien grade ≥3) within 90 d of surgery were registered for 13/100 patients. The study is limited in size and not powered to assess survival estimates.

Conclusions

The suggested templates that we prospectively applied for right-sided and left-sided LND in patients with advanced UTUC included the majority of LNMs. High-grade complications directly related to the LND part of the surgery were limited.

Patient summary

This study describes the location of lymph node metastases in patients with cancer in the upper urinary tract who underwent surgery to remove the affected kidney and ureter. The results show that most metastases occur within the template maps for lymph node surgery that we investigated, and that this surgery can be performed with few severe complications.

Lymph node dissection during nephroureterectomy: Establishing the existing evidence based on a review of the literature

Abstract Objective: To determine the role of lymph node dissection (LND) in the treatment of upper tract transitional cell carcinoma (UTTCC), as the role of LND along with nephroureterectomy in treating UTTCC is unclear and several retrospective studies have been published on this topic with conflicting results.

Methods: The Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), the Excerpta Medica dataBASE (EMBASE), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials database (CENTRAL), Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Clinicaltrials.gov, Google Scholar, and individual urological journals, were searched for all studies investigating the role of LND in the treatment of UTTCC. Of the studies identified, those that met inclusion criteria were included in this review.

Results: In all, 27 studies were included in this review, with 9303 patients who underwent LND. No randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were identified. Tumours were located in the renal pelvis in 62% of patients, in the ureter in 35.5%, and multifocal in 2.3%. In total: 77.1% were LN-negative and 22.9% had LN metastasis. For all patients undergoing LND, the 5-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) rates were 27–65.4% and 32.3–95%, respectively. For patients who underwent a LND in accordance with a standardised anatomical template, the 5-year RFS and CSS rates were 84.3–93% and 83.5–94%, respectively.

Conclusion: LND may provide a survival benefit in patients undergoing nephroureterectomy for UTTCC, particularly if following a standardised anatomical template and in those patients with muscle-invasive disease; however, a prospective RCT is required to confirm this.

Abbreviations: CSS: cancer-specific survival; LN(D): lymph node (dissection); MeSH: Medical Subject Headings; OS: overall survival; pT: pathological T stage; RCT: randomised controlled trial; RFS: recurrence-free survival; UTTCC: upper tract TCC

Lymphadenectomy for Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma: A Systematic Review

Background: The role of lymphonodal dissection during surgery for a tumor of the urinary tract remains controversial. Objective: To analyze anatomical bases of lymphonodal dissection in tumors of the upper urinary tract and analyze its impact on survival, recurrence, and staging. Acquisition of data: A web-based search for scientific articles using Medline/Pubmed was carried out to identify and analyze articles on the practice and the role of lymphonodal dissection in this indication. Data Synthesis: The lymphatic drainage of the upper urinary tract has rarely been studied and is poorly understood. The lymphonodal metastatic extension is the most common extension in upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma. Lymphnode invasion is a clear independent poor prognostic factor. Therefore, it seems legitimate to offer an extended lymphonodal dissection to patients undergoing surgery to cure these tumors. When lymphnodes dissection respects clear anatomical principles based on the location of the primary tumor and its extension, it improves both survival and recurrence rates. This result could be secondary to the treatment of subclinical metastatic disease. Conclusion: An extended lymphadenectomy during surgery for upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma following strict anatomical pattern improves staging with a highly probable therapeutic benefit.

Current Status of Lymphadenectomy During Radical Nephroureterectomy for Upper Tract Urothelial Cancer-Yes, No or Maybe?

While pelvic lymphadenectomy during radical cystectomy for bladder cancer is a well-established standard of care, the same does not hold true for upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). Indeed, a template-based lymphadenectomy is rarely, if ever, performed in conjunction with radical nephroureterectomy at most centres across the globe. While multiple studies have explored the staging and therapeutic role of lymphadenectomy in cases of UTUC, there remain large gaps in our understanding of the indications, extent and safety of this procedure as an adjunct to nephroureterectomy. This article elucidates the current knowledge on outcomes, benefits and complications of template-based lymphadenectomy during radical nephroureterectomy for UTUC. We also explore the current evidence-based guidelines on this controversial topic.

Laparoscopic Surgery in Urologic Oncology

Background

Techniques in genitourinary oncologic surgery have evolved over the past several years, shifting from traditional open approaches toward minimally invasive routes by laparoscopy.

Methods

We reviewed the literature on laparoscopic surgery for genitourinary cancer, with emphasis on contemporary indications, complications, and oncologic outcome of laparoscopic surgery for urologic malignancies.

Results

All urologic oncology procedures have been performed laparoscopically. Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy is becoming the preferred approach for managing kidney cancer. The initial experience with nephroureterectomy is encouraging. Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy is rapidly becoming the standard in Europe and is the procedure of choice in many centers in the United States.

Conclusions

When following the open oncologic principles for the surgical treatment of malignancies, laparoscopy offers similar oncologic clinical outcomes, less morbidity, improved operative precision, and reduced convalescence time.

Systematic regional lymph node dissection for upper tract urothelial carcinoma improves patient survival

Objective

Unlike for bladder cancer, the impact of regional lymph node dissection for upper tract urothelial carcinoma is unclear. We explored whether patient survival was influenced by systematic regional lymph node dissection, using resection templates according to the main tumor location, during radical nephroureterectomy for upper tract urothelial carcinoma.

Methods

The systematic regional lymph node dissection group was defined as cases in which the dissection of nodes and surrounding tissues followed the established template, and the non-systematic regional lymph node dissection group as cases undergoing limited or no lymph node dissection. We performed radical nephroureterectomy on 98 consecutive patients with various stages of upper tract urothelial carcinoma from May 1994 to September 2014 at our institution. Of these, 77 patients with cTanyN0M0 of upper tract urothelial carcinoma undergoing radical nephroureterectomy were grouped into systematic regional lymph node dissection or non-systematic regional lymph node dissection cohorts according to the extent of dissection, and their outcomes compared.

Results

Forty-four patients were categorized as systematic regional lymph node dissection and 33 as non-systematic regional lymph node dissection, including 17 with more limited nodal dissection and 16 with no nodal dissection. Five-year recurrence-free survival and cancer-specific survival were significantly higher in the systematic regional lymph node dissection (93% and 94%, respectively) than in the non-systematic regional lymph node dissection group (75% and 77% recurrence-free survival and cancer-specific survival, respectively). Further, 5-year recurrence-free survival and cancer-specific survival of muscle-invasive upper tract urothelial carcinoma (pT2-4) were significantly higher in the systematic regional lymph node dissection (87% and 91%, respectively) than in the non-systematic regional lymph node dissection group (59% and 62%, respectively) (P = 0.0237 and P = 0.0224). Neither recurrence-free survival nor cancer-specific survival was significantly prolonged by systematic dissection in patients with pTis-1 histology.

Conclusions

Systematic regional lymph node dissection during radical nephroureterectomy for cTanyN0M0 upper tract urothelial carcinoma patients has a significantly beneficial impact on survival compared with patients undergoing more limited dissection, especially in the cases involving muscle invasion.

Anatomical templates of lymph node dissection for upper tract urothelial carcinoma: a systematic review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Indications and techniques of lymph node dissection (LND) for upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) are still controversial. Areas covered: In this study, a systematic review of the English-language literature was performed up to 1 July 2016 using the Medline, Scopus, Cochrane Library and Web of Sciences databases to provide a detailed overview of the most commonly dissected surgical templates of LND for UTUC according to laterality and location of the tumor. Overall, sixteen studies were analyzed. Based on the shared experiences in the scientific literature, the LND template typically included: for right-sided tumors of the renal pelvis, upper third and middle third of the ureter, the renal hilar, paracaval, precaval and retrocaval nodes, while for left-sided tumors the renal hilar, paraaortic and preaortic nodes. For tumors of the lower ureter, an extended pelvic LND was performed in most cases; however, the paracaval, paraaortic or presacral nodes were dissected in selected series. Expert commentary: LND is not routinely performed at the time of surgery for UTUC and both indication and extent of LND vary among surgeons and institutions. Future high-quality studies are needed to define the most accurate LND templates and to assess their oncological efficacy and surgical morbidity.

Contemporary role of lymph node dissection at the time of radical nephroureterectomy for upper tract urothelial carcinoma

PURPOSE

To review the contemporary data on the role of lymph node dissection (LND) at the time of radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) for upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC).

METHODS

A computerized bibliographic search using the following protocol ("Nephroureterectomy") AND ("Lymphadenectomy" OR "Lymph node" OR "Lymphatic") was performed in MEDLINE to identify all original and review articles that addressed the role of LND for UTUC.

RESULTS

Regional lymph node (LN) boundaries of UTUC have been recently investigated in mapping studies to propose anatomic templates of LND according to the laterality and location of primary tumor. Although these anatomic templates remained poorly described, most reports supported the staging benefit of LND that allowed for risk stratification of patients with (pN+) or without (pN0) LN metastases from those who did not undergo such a procedure (pNx). In addition, the therapeutic benefit of LND at the time of RNU was supported by better oncological outcomes obtained after complete LND when compared to incomplete or no LND, especially in the group of patients with advanced disease. The number of LNs removed was also correlated with both, more accurate staging and greater cancer-specific survival after LND, whose feasibility and safety have been validated in prospective studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite mostly based on data with level of evidence 3, our comprehensive review of the literature supports the staging and therapeutic benefits of LND at the time of RNU for UTUC, which are particularly significant for patients with muscle-invasive or locally advanced disease.

Effect of lymph node dissection on the outcomes of upper tract urothelial carcinomas: a meta-analysis

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library. 6032 patients were included. There was no significant difference in survival between LND and NLND (non-lymph node dissection) among the patients. However, the patients in the LND group had more advanced tumour stages and grades (p < 0.001). In addition, among the muscle-invasive patients, LND demonstrated remarkable CSS improvement compared with NLND (HR: 2.19; 95% CI: 1.26-3.80; p = 0.005). Moreover, subgroup analyses found that patients with muscle-invasive UTUC had better CSS (HR: 1.22; 95% CI: 1.02-1.45; p < 0.001) than those patients with pN0 compared to pNx (NLND). In terms of RFS, the results showed no difference in the survival rates between pN0 and pNx patients in the subgroup of patients with muscle-invasive UTUC (HR: 1.40; 95% CI: 0.84-2.23; p = 0.19). Our meta-analysis supports that LND may prolong the CSS and RFS of UTUC, especially for patients with muscle-invasive UTUC.

Pathological risk factors in upper urinary tract cancer

AIMS

To evaluate pathological factors for prognosis, intravesical recurrence and distant metastasis of upper urinary tract cancer.

METHODS

This clinical study included 105 patients with renal pelvic and ureteral cancer who were treated at the Kochi Medical School Hospital between 1982 and 2008. Of these patients, 90 who underwent nephroureterectomy were analyzed for pathological risk factors using uni- and multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up period of the 105 patients was 53 months. The disease-specific survival rates were 70% and 62% at 3 and 5 years. Twenty-three patients (23%) developed intravesical recurrence, and the mean and median times to recurrence were 18.8 and 9.2 months, respectively. Seventeen patients (19%) had distant metastasis, and the mean and median times to distant metastasis were 25.2 and 25.3 months, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified the pathological grade as an independent risk factor for prognosis (P = 0.031), age (≥67 years) and tumor diameter (≥3 cm) as independent risk factors for intravesical recurrence (P = 0.007 and 0.003, respectively), and the pathological grade (G1,2 vs G3) and lymphatic invasion as independent risk factors for distant metastasis (P = 0.006 and 0.003, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Patients with higher-grade upper urinary tract cancer show a poor prognosis, and often develop distant metastasis, suggesting the need for careful postoperative follow-up. Those with lymphatic invasion or tumors of 3 cm or more in diameter frequently develop intravesical recurrence and distant metastasis, respectively, indicating the need for strict follow-up.

The survival benefit of lymph node dissection at the time of removal of kidney, prostate and urothelial carcinomas: what is the evidence?

INTRODUCTION

Lymph node dissection (LND) has been advocated by oncologic surgeons to completely eradicate cancer. However, evidence for that strategy is solely based on poor quality data. Some randomized studies done outside the field of urology failed to show any benefit to LND. Our objective was to evaluate whether LND at the time of removal of prostate, kidney and urothelial carcinomas results in a survival benefit.

METHODS

For that purpose, we performed a systematic literature review.

RESULTS

For kidney cancer, LND might be able to cure some patients with N+ disease. In N0 patients, although a randomized trial has been completed, the value of LND remains uncertain. LND at the time of radical prostatectomy can be useful in some patients with lymph node invasion. However, studies on the impact of LND in pN0 patients are retrospective and conflictive. Extended LND has been recommended when performing a radical cystectomy based on improved outcomes observed in retrospective studies. However, these studies are limited by selection biases and results of ongoing randomized trials will specify the template and the advantages of LND when removing a bladder cancer. Recent data of large series of radical nephro-ureterectomies for upper tract urothelial carcinomas are conflicting. Some found a benefit of LND in N0 patients while others did not.

CONCLUSION

The studies that support LND at the time of surgery for prostate, kidney and urothelial carcinomas have low level of evidence. This should encourage urologists to design and perform well-designed randomized trials to assess the potential survival impact of a commonly done procedure.

Prospective clinical trial of the feasibility and safety of modified retroperitoneal lymph node dissection at time of nephroureterectomy for upper tract urothelial carcinoma

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add? Very little is known about the safety and potential oncological benefit of performing a retroperitoneal lymph node dissection at time of nephroureterectomy for upper tract tumours. This study is the first clinical trial to prospectively validate the safety and feasibility of a retroperitoneal lymph node dissection at time of nephroureterectomy for upper tract tumours. The onus is now on the scientific community at large to conduct adequately powered multicentre clinical trials to evaluate the potential oncological benefit it may impart to patients with upper tract tumours.

OBJECTIVE

• To determine the safety and feasibility of modified retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) at the time of radical nephroureterectomy (RNU).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• Between 2009 and 2011, 20 patients with suspected upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma (UUT-UC) underwent open (n= 10), laparoscopic (n= 4), or robot-assisted (n= 6) RNU with modified RPLND. • Demographic, clinical and pathological data, histological nodal status, peri-operative complications and recurrence data were collected.

RESULTS

• On histopathological review, one patient had a benign angioma and was excluded from the final data analysis. Of the remaining 19 patients, 10 had pTa, five had pT1, one had pT2, and three pT3 disease. • The mean (range) lymph node count was 7 (2-17), with one patient having pathologically proven lymph node metastasis. The mean (range) operating time was 279 (146-500) min. The mean EBL was 396 (100-1100) mL, with the mean (range) hospital stay 7.1 (4-18) days. The mean (range) duration of follow-up after surgery was 12 (2-24) months. • Overall, nine patients developed postoperative complications, which included eight minor (Clavien Grade I-II) and one major complication (Clavien grade IIIb). The major complication was a postoperative chylous lymphatic leak requiring surgical exploration.

CONCLUSION

• The present results indicate that modified RPLND during RNU for UUT-UC is a feasible procedure with acceptable morbidity. A larger prospective clinical trial is needed to adequately assess its potential therapeutic benefit.

Role of lymphadenectomy in the management of urothelial carcinoma of the bladder and the upper urinary tract

The role of lymphadenectomy has been controversial in urological malignancies. Urothelial carcinoma of the bladder and upper urinary tract has a high potential to spread through the lymphatic network compared with other malignancies, including renal cell carcinoma or prostate cancer. In urothelial carcinoma of the bladder, lymphadenectomy of pelvic nodes had been considered as the standard procedure when radical cystectomy was carried out. Recently, many investigators have examined the influence of its extent, and the majority of the studies have supported the beneficial role of extended lymphadenectomy in accurate staging or in improving patient survival. Although randomized controlled trials are required to establish a greater level of evidence, more urological surgeons have already noticed the necessity for extended lymphadenectomy in bladder cancer. In contrast to bladder cancer, there have been far fewer studies on urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract. This might be because of the smaller number of the patients with urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract and the lack of understanding of regional nodes. However, studies of lymph node mapping and the retrospective analyses with respect to the benefit of lymphadenectomy have been carried out in urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract by some investigators, although the results are still controversial. However, the results from multi-institutional studies by high volume centers have supported the beneficial role of lymphadenectomy in urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract, as it has been proposed in bladder cancer. Thus, lymphadenectomy for urothelial carcinoma of the bladder and the upper urinary tract might have a potential role in staging and improving the oncological outcomes.

The contemporary role of lymph node dissection during nephroureterectomy in the management of upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma: the Canadian experience

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between lymph node dissection (LND) and survival among patients undergoing nephroureterectomy for upper urinary tract urothelial cell carcinoma (UTUC).

METHODS

This study includes 1029 patients from 10 Canadian institutions who underwent nephroureterectomy between 1990 and 2010. Disease-specific survival (DSS), overall survival (OS), and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were compared for patients with a node-negative LND (N0), node-positive LND (N+), or no LND (Nx) using Kaplan-Meyer analysis and Cox regression analysis. The association between survival and number of positive nodes, number of nodes removed, and ratio of positive nodes to nodes removed was also investigated.

RESULTS

The median follow-up for the entire cohort was 19.8 months (interquartile range = 7.2-53.8). LND was performed in 276 (26.8%) patients, and 77 (27.9%) had N+ disease. Patients with N+ disease had significantly shorter OS, DSS, and RFS compared with N0 and Nx patients(P < .01). No differences were identified between N0 and Nx patients in any survival categories (P > .05). A ratio of positive nodes to nodes removed ≥ 20% had a per annum hazard ratio of 2.24 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.18-4.65) for OS, 2.70 (95% CI = 1.25-5.83) for DSS, and 1.94 (95% CI = 1.13-3.32) for RFS. The number of positive nodes and the number of nodes removed were not associated with survival in any survival category (P > .05).

CONCLUSION

LND during nephroureterectomy provides more accurate staging and prediction of survival; however, it remains uncertain whether LND independently improves survival in patients with UTUC.

Lymphadenectomy at the time of nephroureterectomy for upper tract urothelial cancer

CONTEXT

The role of lymph node dissection (LND) in patients treated with radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) for upper tract urothelial cancer (UTUC) is still controversial.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the impact of lymph node invasion on the outcome of patients, the staging, and the possible therapeutic role of LND in UTUC.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A Medline search was conducted to identify original articles, review articles, and editorials addressing the role of LND in UTUC. Keywords included upper tract urothelial neoplasms, lymphadenectomy, lymph node excision, lymphatic metastases, nephroureterectomy, imaging, and survival.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Regional nodes are frequently involved in UTUC and represent the most common metastatic site. Regional nodal status is a significant predictor of patient outcomes, especially in invasive disease. Therefore, select patients treated with RNU at high risk for regional nodal metastases should undergo LND to improve disease staging, which would identify those who could benefit from adjuvant systemic therapy. Several retrospective studies suggested the potential therapeutic role of LND in UTUC. An accurate LND could remove some nodal micrometastases not identified on routine pathologic examination, thus improving local control and cancer-specific survival. Radical surgery and LND might be curative in a subpopulation with limited nodal disease, as described in bladder cancer. A clear knowledge of the limits of LND and a template of LND for UTUC are still needed.

CONCLUSIONS

An extended LND can provide better disease staging and may be curative in patients with limited nodal disease. However, current evidence is based on retrospective studies, which limits the ability to standardize either the indication or the extent of LND. Prospective trials are required to determine the impact of LND on survival in patients with UTUC and identify patients for a risk-adapted approach such as close follow-up or adjuvant chemotherapy.

The role of lymph node dissection in the management of urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract

Urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract (UCUUT) is a disease with poor prognosis and a high incidence of lymphatic metastasis at 30-40%. Lymphadenectomy may be a possible surgical strategy to control the spread of lymphatic cancer, but its therapeutic benefit in UCUUT has remained controversial in contrast to bladder cancer in which consensus has been almost reached with respect to the necessity of extended lymphadenectomy. We hypothesized that radical lymphadenectomy may also be important for UCUUT since UCUUT is histologically similar to bladder cancer. One of the major reasons for uncertainty about whether lymphadenectomy has any therapeutic value may have resulted from an incomplete understanding of the regional nodes. Thus, we started our analyses by clarifying this issue, and found that the primary sites of lymphatic metastases encompassed a relatively wide area, especially on the right side, when compared with the conventional recognition. We further reported complete lymphadenectomy in which all regional sites which were dissected appeared to provide a survival benefit for patients with UCUUT at an advanced stage. To date, several studies from the other institutes have added supportive evidence for the therapeutic role of lymphadenectomy. Although there are several points to be determined such as the extent of the template, the minimum number of lymph nodes removed, or the candidate for lymphadenectomy, performing lymphadenectomy is unlikely to have a negative effect on the patient. In the future, we expect that controlled prospective studies will further clarify the potential role of lymphadenectomy in UCUUT.

Role of lymph node dissection in the treatment of urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract: multi-institutional relapse analysis and immunohistochemical re-evaluation of negative lymph nodes

AIM

To determine the role of lymph node dissection (LND) in the treatment of urothelial carcinoma (UC) of the upper urinary tract (UUT).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

[Study-1] A retrospective multi-institutional study evaluated 293 patients undergoing predominantly nephroureterectomy for UC of the UUT. Of 293 patients, 267 patients had pure UC and 26 demonstrated other histological components. Regarding the pathological node status, 130 patients had pN0 disease, 141 patients had pNx disease and 22 patients had pN+ disease. The sites of initial recurrence and time to first recurrence were reviewed. The sites of recurrence were classified as locoregional or distant recurrence. The relationship between node status and future recurrence was analyzed. [Study-2] Fifty-one patients treated by nephroureterectomy at Hokkaido University Hospital were included. All had LND and all LNs were negative on hematoxylin and eosin staining. We re-evaluated the presence of micrometastasis in LND specimens by anti-cytokeratin immunohistochemistory.

RESULTS

[Study-1] Of 293 patients, 76 developed disease relapse. Regional lymph node recurrence was the most common site (34 patients). On multivariate analyses that adjusted for the effect of tumor stage and tumor grade, pNx (skipping LND) was an adverse factor not only for locoregional recurrence, but also for distant relapse. [Study-2] Immunohistochemistry identified micrometastases in 7 (14%) of 51 patients. Regarding survival, 5 of these 7 patients with micrometastases were alive at last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

On relapse analysis, skipping LND was an adverse factor not only for locoregional recurrence, but also for distant relapse. Immunohistochemistry detected micrometastases in about 14% of patients previously diagnosed as pN0. These findings further support a potential therapeutic benefit of LND by eliminating micrometastases.

Assessment of the minimum number of lymph nodes needed to detect lymph node invasion at radical nephroureterectomy in patients with upper tract urothelial cancer

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether a minimum number of lymph nodes (LNs) exist to detect lymph node invasion (LNI) in patients undergoing radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) for upper tract urothelial carcinoma.

METHODS

The study included 551 consecutive patients, from 13 centers worldwide, who underwent RNU and lymphadenectomy (LND) between 1992 and 2006. LND was performed at the discretion of the surgeon. All pathological slides were re-reviewed by uropathologists according to strict criteria. Receiver-operating characteristic curve coordinates were used to determine the probability of diagnosing LNI according to the total number of nodes removed. Additionally, the relationship between the number of nodes removed and the rate of positive LNs was tested in univariate and multivariate logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Median patient age was 68 years (range: 27-97). Of 551 patients, 140 (25.4%) had positive lymph nodes. Median number of lymph nodes removed was 5 (mean 6.7, range 1-41). The Receiver-operating characteristic coordinates plot indicated that the removal of 13 nodes yielded a 90% probability to detect >or=1 positive LNs. The removal of 8 nodes resulted in a 75% probability of finding >or=1 positive nodes. Removal of >8 LNs (P = .03; odds ratio 1.49) was independently associated with LNI after adjusting for pathological stage and grade.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that 8 LNs need to be removed at radical nephroureterectomy to achieve a 75% probability of finding >or=1 positive nodes. Further improvement of the specificity of LND will require the removal of more lymph nodes.

A critical appraisal of the value of lymph node dissection at nephroureterectomy for upper tract urothelial carcinoma

OBJECTIVES

To perform a population-based analysis of the potential staging or prognostic value (or both) of lymph node dissection (LND) in patients without nodal metastases vs no LND. In several previous reports, LND in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) treated with nephroureterectomy (NU) was associated with better survival relative to no LND (pN(x)), even in the absence of pathologically confirmed nodal metastases (pN(0)).

METHODS

Within the surveillance, epidemiology, and end results database, we identified 2824 patients treated with NU for UTUC between 1988 and 2004. CSM rates after NU were graphically explored using Kaplan-Meier plots. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression models tested the effect of N(0) vs N(x) stage on CSM, after adjusting for T stage, tumor grade, age, gender, primary tumor location, type, and year of surgery.

RESULTS

The CSM-free survival rate at 5 years after NU was 81.2% and 77.8% respectively for pN(0) and pN(x) patients. In univariable analyses pN(x) vs pN(0) status was not associated with worse survival (HR: 1.19; P = .09). After adjustment for all covariates, pN(x) vs pN(0) status still failed to achieve independent predictor status (HR: 0.99; P = .9).

CONCLUSIONS

We found no survival benefit related to the performance of LND in pN(0) patients, relative to pN(x) patients. Lack of standardized criteria for patients' selection for LND and for pathological lymph node specimen evaluation represents some of the explanation for the observed discrepancy between the current finding and previous findings.

Treatment of upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma

Upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma (UUTUC) is relatively rare, occurring in only 5% of all urothelial cancers. It has not been as extensively studied and reviewed as carcinoma of the bladder. UUTUC has a propensity for multifocality, local recurrence, and development of metastases, which argues for an aggressive treatment approach. Open radical nephroureterectomy (ORNU) with removal of an ipsilateral bladder cuff still remains the gold standard treatment for patients with UUTUC and a normal contralateral kidney, which, however, is being challenged by minimally invasive approaches, such as endoscopic and laparoscopic approaches. They are rapidly evolving as reasonable alternatives of care depending on grade and stage of disease. Adjuvant therapy seems to be safe, although its efficacy is debatable. Immunotherapy appears to be most effective in patients with upper-tract carcinoma in situ. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy also show some improvement in recurrence rates, but there have been no randomized, prospective trials. Gene and molecular-targeted therapy is expected. Several controversies remain in our management, including a selection of endoscopic versus laparoscopic approaches, management strategies on the distal ureter, the role of lymphadenectomy, and the value of immunotherapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and genetics and molecular markers in UUTUC. Aims of this paper are to critically review the treatment of UUTUC.

Clinical significance of lymph node dissection in patients with muscle-invasive upper urinary tract transitional cell carcinoma treated with nephroureterectomy

We investigated the value of lymph node dissection in patients with cN0 muscle-invasive transitional cell carcinoma of the upper urinary tract (UUT-TCC). Medical records of 152 patients with cN0 muscle-invasive UUT-TCC, who underwent nephroureterectomy between 1986 and 2005, were reviewed. Sixty-three patients (41.4%) underwent lymph node dissection. The median number of lymph nodes harvested was 6 (range, 1 to 35), and from these, lymph node involvement was confirmed in 9 patients (14.3%). Locoregional recurrence (LR) and disease-recurrence (DR) occurred in 29 patients and 63 patients, respectively. Fifty-five patients (36.2%) had died of cancer at the last follow-up. The number of lymph nodes harvested was associated with the reduction of LR (chi(2)(trend)=6.755, P=0.009), but was not associated with DR (chi(2)(trend)=1.558, P=0.212). In the survival analysis, N stage (P=0.0251) and lymph node dissection (P=0.0073) had significant influence on LR, but not on DR or disease-specific survival. However, the number of lymph nodes harvested did not affect LR-free, DR-free, or disease-specific survival. We conclude that lymph node dissection may improve the control of locoregional cancer, as well as staging accuracy, in cN0 muscle-invasive UUT-TCC, but that it does not clearly influence survival.

The protective role of renal parenchyma as a barrier to local tumor spread of upper tract transitional cell carcinoma and its impact on patient survival

PURPOSE

We investigated whether tumor location has independent prognostic significance in upper tract transitional cell carcinoma cases and which factor determines it.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed data on 122 renal pelvis and 102 ureteral tumor cases, including the recurrence pattern. Tumor location and other clinicopathological variables were evaluated regarding cancer specific and recurrence-free survival. Stage pT3 tumors were stratified into those invading renal parenchyma or peripelvic/periureteral fat.

RESULTS

Overall 5-year cancer specific survival and recurrence-free survival rates were 77.0% and 71.6%, respectively, at a mean followup of 60.7 months. Of the clinicopathological parameters T stage was the most significant prognosticator of the survival rate, while nodal involvement, high grade and ureteral tumor location were also significant for lower survival rates. Stratification analysis for matching pathological stage revealed that, while survival rates were similar in the renal pelvis and ureteral tumor groups at stage pT2 or less, renal pelvic tumors were associated with significantly higher survival rates than ureteral tumors for stage pT3. Specifically renal pelvic tumors invading the renal parenchyma were associated with a lower local failure rate, and higher cancer specific and recurrence-free survival rates than tumors invading peripelvic or periureteral fat, ie 77.5% vs 49.7% 5-year cancer specific survival and 75.6% vs 32.0% 5-year recurrence-free survival (p = 0.014 and 0.003, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Tumor location is an independent prognostic factor for pT3 upper tract transitional cell carcinoma. The overall better prognosis of renal pelvic tumors was mainly attributable to pT3 tumor outcomes, specifically lesions invading the renal parenchyma. These findings may be due to the protective role of thick renal parenchyma against local tumor spread.

The extent of lymphadenectomy seems to be associated with better survival in patients with nonmetastatic upper-tract urothelial carcinoma: how many lymph nodes should be removed?

BACKGROUND

The role and extent of lymphadenectomy in patients with upper-tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) is debated.

OBJECTIVE

To establish whether the number of lymph nodes (LNs) removed might be associated with better cause-specific survival in patients with UTUC.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

The study included 552 consecutive patients who underwent radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) and lymphadenectomy between 1992 and 2006.

INTERVENTION

Patients were treated with RNU and lymphadenectomy.

MEASUREMENTS

Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models addressed the association between the number of LNs removed and cause-specific mortality (CSM). The number of LNs removed was coded as a cubic spline to allow for nonlinear effects. Finally, the most informative cut-off for the number of removed LNs was identified.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

In the entire population, the number of LNs removed was not associated with CSM in univariable (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.99; p=0.16) or in multivariable (HR: 0.97; p=0.12) analyses. In contrast, in the subgroup of pN0 patients (n=412), the number of LNs removed achieved the independent predictor status of CSM (HR: 0.93; p=0.02). Eight LNs removed was the most informative cut-off in predicting CSM (HR: 0.42; p=0.004). The inclusion of the variable defining dichotomously the number of removed LNs (< 8 vs > or = 8) in the base model (age, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, pathologic stage, grade, architecture, and lymphovascular invasion) significantly increased the accuracy in predicting CSM (+1.7%; p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The extension of the lymphadenectomy in pN0 UTUC patients seems to be associated with CSM. Longer survival was observed in patients in whom at least eight LNs had been removed.

Impact of lymph node dissection on cancer specific survival in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma treated with radical nephroureterectomy

PURPOSE

We examined the impact of lymphadenectomy on the clinical outcomes of patients with upper tract urothelial cancer treated with radical nephroureterectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data were collected on 1,130 consecutive patients with pT1-4 upper tract urothelial cancer treated with radical nephroureterectomy at 13 centers worldwide. Patients were grouped according to nodal status (pN0 vs pNx vs pN+). The choice to perform lymphadenectomy was determined by the treating surgeon. All pathology slides were reevaluated by dedicated genitourinary pathologists. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression models measured the association of nodal status (pN0 vs pNx vs pN+) with cancer specific survival.

RESULTS

Overall 412 patients (36.5%) had pN0 disease, 578 had pNx disease (51.1%) and 140 had pN+ disease (12.4%). The 5-year cancer specific survival estimate was lower in patients with pN+ compared to those with pNx disease (35% vs 69%, p <0.001), which in turn was lower than that in those with pN0 disease (69% vs 77%, p = 0.024). In the subgroup of patients with pT1 disease (345) cancer specific survival rates were not different in those with pN0 and pNx. In pT2-4 cases (813) cancer specific survival estimates were lowest in pN+, intermediate in pNx and highest in pN0 (33% vs 58% vs 70%, p = 0.017). When adjusted for the effects of standard clinicopathological features pN+ was an independent predictor of cancer specific survival (p <0.001). pNx was significantly associated with worse prognosis than pN0 in pT2-4 upper tract urothelial cancer only.

CONCLUSIONS

Nodal status is a significant predictor of cancer specific survival in upper tract urothelial cancer. pNx is significantly associated with a worse prognosis than pN0 in pT2-4 tumors. Patients expected to have pT2-4 disease should undergo lymphadenectomy to improve staging and thereby help guide decision making regarding adjuvant chemotherapy.

Retroperitoneal lymph nodes in transitional cell carcinoma of the kidney and ureter

The incidence of transitional cell carcinoma of the kidney and ureter is low and for that reason limited data exists regarding the appropriate management of regional retroperitoneal lymph nodes. Lymph node metastases have consistently been associated with an adverse prognosis. However, five-year cancer-specific survival following nephroureterectomy and lymphadenectomy for patients with lymph node involvement ranges from 0–39%, suggesting a therapeutic benefit. This review covers the primary tumor characteristics associated with lymph node involvement, imaging of the lymph nodes, as well as the rationale, role, patient selection, suggested anatomic templates, and technical considerations for lymphadenectomy.

Lymphovascular invasion predicts clinical outcomes in patients with node-negative upper tract urothelial carcinoma

PURPOSE

To assess the association of lymphovascular invasion (LVI) with cancer recurrence and survival in a large international series of patients treated with radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) for upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data were collected on 1,453 patients treated with RNU at 13 academic centers and combined into a relational database. Pathologic slides were rereviewed by genitourinary pathologists according to strict criteria. LVI was defined as presence of tumor cells within an endothelium-lined space.

RESULTS

LVI was observed in 349 patients (24%). Proportion of LVI increased with advancing tumor stage, high tumor grade, presence of tumor necrosis, sessile tumor architecture, and presence of lymph node metastasis (all P < .001). LVI was an independent predictor of disease recurrence and survival (P < .001 for both). Addition of LVI to the base model (comprising pathologic stage, grade, and lymph node status) marginally improved its predictive accuracy for both disease recurrence and survival (1.1%, P = .03; and 1.7%, P < .001, respectively). In patients with negative lymph nodes and those in whom a lymphadenectomy was not performed (n = 1,313), addition of LVI to the base model improved the predictive accuracy of the base model for both disease recurrence and survival by 3% (P < .001 for both). In contrast, LVI was not associated with disease recurrence or survival in node-positive patients (n = 140).

CONCLUSION

LVI was an independent predictor of clinical outcomes in nonmetastatic patients who underwent RNU for UTUC. Assessment of LVI may help identify patients who could benefit from multimodal therapy after RNU. After confirmation, LVI should be included in staging of UTUC.

Comprehensive management of upper tract urothelial carcinoma

Urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract represents only 5% of all urothelial cancers. The 5-year cancer-specific survival in the United States is roughly 75% with grade and stage being the most powerful predictors of survival. Nephroureterectomy with excision of the ipsilateral ureteral orifice and bladder cuff en bloc remains the gold standard treatment of the upper urinary tract urothelial cancers, while endoscopic and laparoscopic approaches are rapidly evolving as reasonable alternatives of care depending on grade and stage of disease. Several controversies remain in their management, including a selection of endoscopic versus laparoscopic approaches, management strategies on the distal ureter, the role of lymphadenectomy, and the value of chemotherapy in upper tract disease. Aims of this paper are to critically review the management of such tumors, including endoscopic management, laparoscopic nephroureterectomy and management of the distal ureter, the role of lymphadenectomy, and the emerging role of chemotherapy in their treatment.

Comparing lymphadenectomy during radical nephroureterectomy: open versus laparoscopic

OBJECTIVES

Laparoscopic nephroureterectomy (LNU) is an accepted treatment for tumors of the ureter and renal pelvis, although the ability to perform a regional lymphadenectomy has been criticized. We compared the quality of lymphadenectomy with LNU with that involving open nephroureterectomy (ONU) to determine whether oncologic principles are maintained.

METHODS

We searched our institutional database for patients who had undergone ONU from 1990 to 2005. These were compared with a series of patients from January 2003 to April 2007 who underwent LNU. From each patient's medical records, we assessed the number of lymph nodes removed, the number of positive nodes removed, and the density of positive nodes. The differences between groups were analyzed using the Wilcoxon rank sum statistical test.

RESULTS

We identified 106 patients who underwent ONU with lymphadenectomy and 28 who underwent LNU with lymphadenectomy. The median number of nodes removed, median number of positive nodes, and median density of positive nodes were, respectively, 3, 0, and 0 for the ONU group; and 6, 0, and 0, for the LNU group. There was a statistically significant difference between groups with respect to the number of nodes removed (P = 0.01) but not with respect to the number of positive nodes removed (P = 0.61) or the lymph node density (P = 0.42).

CONCLUSIONS

Offsetting the benefits of laparoscopy could be a flawed oncologic technique. We have demonstrated that lymphadenectomy, which is a potentially important component of nephroureterectomy, can be performed as well during LNU as it is with ONU when a dedicated effort is made.

Prognostic value of lymph node dissection in patients with muscle-invasive transitional cell carcinoma of the upper urinary tract

OBJECTIVES

To analyze the prognostic role of lymphadenectomy (LND) in patients with muscle-invasive transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the upper urinary tract (UUT) managed with radical surgery.

METHODS

From 1986 to 2003, 132 consecutive patients with muscle-invasive TCC of the UUT underwent radical surgery. LND was performed in 95 cases. Patients were stratified according to the presence of LND and lymph node (LN) status. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression models determined the effect of age, pT, grade, nodal status (pN), number of LNs removed, year of surgery, and postoperative chemotherapy on disease-free survival (DFS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) in the overall population and in patients who underwent LND.

RESULTS

The actuarial 5-yr CSS in pNx patients was significantly worse than in pN0 patients (48% vs. 73%, p=0.001) and comparable to pN+ outcome (48% vs. 39%, p=0.476). In the entire population, multivariable Cox regression analyses indicated that pT and pN status were independent predictors of DFS (p=0.04, hazard ratio [HR]=1.82 and p<0.01, HR=1.34, respectively) and CSS (p<0.01, HR=2.42 and p=0.04, HR=1.32, respectively). In patients who underwent LND, the number of LNs removed was an independent predictor of DFS (p=0.03, HR=0.928) and of CSS (p=0.007, HR=0.903). The extent of LND again resulted in an independent predictor either of DFS or CSS (p=0.04, HR=0.904 and p=0.01, HR=0.867, respectively) in the subgroup of pN0 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

LND emerged as a strong independent predictor of DFS and CSS in patients surgically managed for a muscle-invasive TCC of the UUT.

Urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract: surgical approach and prognostic factors

OBJECTIVES

Open radical nephroureterectomy (O-RNU) has been the gold standard for the treatment of upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma (UUT-UC) for decades. With the advances in laparoscopic techniques and endourologic procedures, this concept has been increasingly challenged. Oncologic outcome prediction is mainly based on stage and grade. With progress in medical treatment, adjuvant therapies may gain importance in the future. This review assesses the values of the variety of available treatments as well as prognostic factors that may become relevant regarding patient selection for future adjuvant treatment trials.

METHODS

We performed a systematic literature research using MEDLINE with emphasis on open surgical, laparoscopic, and endourologic (ureteroscopic or percutaneous) techniques and prognostic contents.

RESULTS

Overall, no evidence level 1 information from prospective randomised trials is available for treatment of UUT-UC. Laparoscopic radical nephroureterectomy (L-RNU) is increasingly challenging open surgery. Currently, L-RNU should be reserved for low-stage, low-grade tumours. Ureteroscopy and percutaneous nephron-sparing techniques show favourable survival data but high local recurrence rates. Regarding prognosis, estimation of outcome still relies mainly on stage and grade because no additional parameters have been introduced in a routine clinical setting.

CONCLUSIONS

O-RNU still represents the gold standard for the treatment of UUT-UC. The laparoscopic approach is not yet standard of care and should be reserved for low-stage, low-grade tumours. Endourologic nephron-sparing treatments are still experimental in elective indications due to high local recurrence rates. For prognosis, no parameters in addition to stage and grade have been standardised.

Impact of the extent of regional lymphadenectomy on the survival of patients with urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract

PURPOSE

We determined the impact of the extent of regional lymphadenectomy on survival in patients with urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 1989 and January 2006, 169 patients with nonmetastatic urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract underwent curative surgery. We previously reported the primary sites of nodal metastases in urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract. Nodal sites where the incidence of metastases was 30% or more were considered regional lymph nodes. When all primary sites were resected, this was considered complete lymphadenectomy. Regional lymphadenectomy without the removal of all primary sites was considered incomplete lymphadenectomy. We retrospectively analyzed the influence of the extent of lymphadenectomy on patient survival.

RESULTS

A total of 45 patients (26.6%) underwent complete lymphadenectomy. Lymphadenectomy was performed in an additional 36 patients (21.3%) but it was incomplete. Lymphadenectomy was not performed in 88 patients. Cancer specific survival did not significantly differ between the groups when all patients were analyzed. However, patient survival significantly depended on the extent of lymphadenectomy when we focused on patients with T stage pT3 or higher. Patient survival was likely to improve when the number of lymph nodes removed increased. Multivariate analysis showed that complete lymphadenectomy was a significant prognostic factor for cancer specific survival (p = 0.009) as well as T stage (pT3 or less p = 0.0004) and tumor grade (G3 p = 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Although further investigation is required to make a definite conclusion, the extent of lymphadenectomy may significantly influence its therapeutic effect, especially for patients with advanced disease.

Long-Term Oncologic Outcome after Laparoscopic Radical Nephroureterectomy for Upper Tract Transitional Cell Carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

To assess the long-term oncologic efficacy of laparoscopic radical nephroureterectomy (RNU).

METHODS

Between August 1993 and May 2001, 39 patients underwent laparoscopic RNU for upper tract transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) at our institution. The medical records of these patients were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

Clinical outcomes were available in all 39 patients with an actual follow-up ranging from 60 to 148 mo (median: 74). During this time 27 patients (69%) developed at least one TCC recurrence. Eighteen patients had urothelial recurrences, and 9 patients had nonurothelial recurrences. Of these latter patients, 2 patients (5%) had local recurrences. No patient developed a port site metastasis. Eleven patients ultimately had disease progression and died from TCC 7-59 mo (median: 31) after the operation. On statistical analysis, tumor stage was the only factor significantly associated with death from the disease, and tumor location (ureter) was the only factor significantly associated with disease recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

The long-term overall and disease-specific survival rates after laparoscopic RNU for upper tract TCC are well within the range of results reported after open surgery. Thus, the results of the present study support the continued development of laparoscopic techniques in the management of this aggressive disease.

Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLD) in conjunction with nephroureterectomy in the treatment of infiltrative transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the upper urinary tract: impact on survival

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the prognostic impact of retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLD) performed during nephroureterectomy on time to recurrence and survival in patients with infiltrative transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the upper urinary tract.

METHODS

The charts of 82 patients with T2-T4 TCC of the upper tract were retrospectively reviewed. The median patient age was 67.7 yr. Seventy-nine patients underwent nephroureterectomy and three had partial nephrectomy. Forty patients (48.8%) had RPLD with removal of more than five nodes after nephroureterectomy (group 1), whereas 42 (51.2%) had nephroureterectomy only (group 2). Median follow-up was 64.7 mo. The prognostic role of RPLD, T (2 vs. 3-4), G (2 vs. 3), N (0 vs. 1-2 vs. x), age (<65 vs. >65 yr) and sex on time to recurrence and survival were evaluated.

RESULTS

Median time to recurrence and overall survival were 51.2 and 52.5 mo, respectively, in group 1 and 18.5 and 21.2 mo in group 2. Univariate analysis demonstrated that RPLD and T and N status were significantly related both to time to recurrence (p=0.009, 0.008, and 0.009, respectively) and survival (p=0.000006, 0.003, and 0.003). When analyzed using the Cox proportional hazard model, RPLD and T category were the only two factors demonstrating independent significance on overall survival (p=0.004 and 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate a possible curative role of RPLD in the treatment of patients with infiltrative TCC of the upper urinary tract. Further randomized trials are needed to confirm these results.

Evaluation of regional lymph node dissection in patients with upper urinary tract urothelial cancer

OBJECTIVE

The role of the lymph node dissection (LND) in conjunction with nephroureterectomy (NU) in upper tract urothelial cell carcinoma (UT-UCC) remains undefined. We evaluated the manner in which the LND was applied at NU, the patterns of lymph node (LN) involvement and the preoperative variables that could identify patients at high risk for lymph node metastasis (LNM).

METHODS

We examined clinical, radiological and pathological records of patients who underwent NU for UT-UCC between 1985 and 2004. The central pathology laboratory reviewed all specimens and graded tumors using the 2002 World Health Organization/International Society of Urologic Pathologists grading system.

RESULTS

Of the NU performed in 252 patients for UT-UCC, 105 (42%) were N0, 28 (11%) N+ and 119 (47%) Nx. Some form of LN resection was performed with NU in 53% of patients, with a median of four LN sampled (interquartile range, 2-10). After adjustment for tumor and patient characteristics, surgeon remained a significant predictor of LN resection (P < 0.0005). Of the evaluated variables, suspicious LN on preoperative computed tomography, present in 60% of N+ patients, was the only preoperative variable associated with the pathological finding of LNM (P < 0.0005).

CONCLUSIONS

LND in patients with UT-UCC is surgeon-dependent. Given the prognostic importance of LN status and the limited accuracy of preoperative staging of the regional LN, surgeons should perform a regional LND at the time of NU.

Primary site and incidence of lymph node metastases in urothelial carcinoma of upper urinary tract

OBJECTIVES

To determine the primary site and incidence of lymph node metastases in urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract.

METHODS

From January 1989 to October 2005, we treated 181 patients with urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract. The findings of the imaging studies when lymph node metastasis was diagnosed and the pathologic examination findings of the nodal specimens were analyzed. If multiple nodal metastases were present, the largest lymph node was considered the primary site.

RESULTS

Of the 181 patients, 42 (23.2%) had nodal involvement. Lymphatic metastasis was confirmed pathologically in 23 patients and 19 were clinically considered to have nodal metastasis without pathologic diagnosis because these patients died of the disease with deterioration of nodal involvement during follow-up. In tumors of the right renal pelvis, the primary metastatic sites were the right renal hilar, paracaval, and retrocaval nodes. Tumors of the upper two thirds of the right ureter primarily metastasized to the retrocaval and inter-aortocaval nodes. In tumors of the left renal pelvis, the primary sites were the left renal hilar and para-aortic nodes. Tumors of the upper two thirds of the left ureter primarily metastasized to the para-aortic nodes. Tumors of the lower ureter primarily metastasized inferiorly to the aortic bifurcation.

CONCLUSIONS

Lymphadenectomy for urothelial carcinoma of the right renal pelvis and upper two thirds of the ureter should include a relatively wide area, compared with regional lymph nodes conventionally addressed, encompassing the paracaval, retrocaval, and inter-aortocaval nodes.

Nephroureterectomy for treating upper urinary tract transitional cell carcinoma: Time to change the treatment paradigm?

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate factors associated with disease recurrence and survival in patients undergoing nephroureterectomy for upper urinary tract transitional cell carcinoma (UUT-TCC) in one centre over an 18-year period.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The records of patients who had a nephroureterectomy for UUT-TCC at our institution from 1986 to 2004 were reviewed for clinical, pathological and treatment period data. Cox's proportional hazards regression model was used to test the statistical significance of several potential prognostic factors for recurrence and survival. RESULTS The median overall duration of follow-up was 2.5 years for 184 patients. Significant prognosticators for disease-specific survival (DSS) by univariate analysis were tumour stage (P < 0.01), tumour grade (P < 0.01), node-positive disease (P < 0.01), multifocality (P = 0.03), previous cystectomy (P < 0.01) and synchronous bilateral UUT-TCC (P = 0.02). On multivariate analysis, only tumour stage (P = 0.03) and grade (P = 0.01) correlated with DSS. The median recurrence-free survival duration was 2.4 years. In 44 patients, the disease recurred outside the bladder; 15 (8.2%) had local recurrence, 20 (10.9%) distant metastasis, and nine (4.9%) both local and distant recurrence. Bladder tumours occurred in 40 (26.1%) patients with no previous cystectomy. The evaluation of treatment outcome during three periods of the study showed no significant effect on DSS.

CONCLUSION

Tumour stage and grade correlated with DSS in this cohort, with no improvement in outcome over the 18-year period assessed. Patients with high-stage and high-grade disease continue to fare poorly, suggesting a need for changing the treatment protocol. Judiciously applying a multimodal approach to the management of high-risk patients by incorporating neoadjuvant chemotherapy and surgical resection might provide, for the first time, the opportunity to improve patient outcome.

Oncological outcome of retroperitoneoscopic nephroureterectomy for upper urinary tract transitional cell carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

To report the oncological outcome of retroperitoneoscopic nephroureterectomy (RNU) with bladder cuff excision for upper urinary tract transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), and to compare the outcome with that of the traditional open nephroureterectomy (ONU).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From January 2001, 48 patients with upper urinary tract TCC were enrolled in the study; 25 had RNU and 23 had ONU. Oncological parameters (disease-free survival and disease-specific survival) were calculated from the time of surgery to the date of last follow up and were analysed by the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Mean follow up was 24.3 months in the RNU group, significantly shorter than in the ONU group. Bladder recurrence was identified in two patients with grade 3 pathological stage pT3, one patient with grade 3 stage pT2 disease and two patients with grade 2 stage pT2 disease. Multiple organ metastases in the lung, liver and lymph nodes were associated with bladder recurrence in two cases (grade 2 stage pT3, and grade 3 stage pT3). The recurrence rate was 20% (5 of 25 cases) and mean time to recurrence was 9.5 months. In the ONU group, bladder recurrence and metastases developed in four and three patients, respectively. The recurrence rate was 17% (4 of 23 cases) and mean time to recurrence was 23.4 months. No significant difference was detected in the disease-free survival rate and cancer-specific survival rate between the two groups (P=0.759 and P=0.866, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The oncological outcome of RNU appears to be equivalent to that of ONU. Moreover, long-term follow up is necessary to evaluate the oncological outcome in comparison to ONU.