The significance of MRI-detected lateral lymph node metastasis in rectal cancer on local recurrence and survival-A nationwide cohort study.

ABSTRACT:

Aim

This retrospective observational cohort study aimed to investigate the prevalence of suspected lateral lymph node metastases (LLNM), as diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and its impact on local recurrence (LR) and overall survival (OS). Patients who underwent dissection of suspected lymph nodes were evaluated in subgroup analysis.

Method

Patients diagnosed with rectal cancer in Sweden between 2017 and 2021 were identified through the Swedish colorectal cancer registry and grouped by MRI findings. Main outcome measures were LR at 3 years and OS at 3 and 5 years.

Results

In all, 2779 patients were analysed. Frequency of lateral lymph node (LLN) enlargement on MRI was 9.4%. In univariable analysis, the risk of LR at 3 years was increased in LLN-positive

SUBMITTER: Agger E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12834856 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature