Lymph Node Dissection for Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

Lymph node metastasis is one of the most important prognostic factors in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. However, the optimal extent of lymph node dissection is still under debate. We specifically address several controversies regarding lymph node dissection, for example, recurrent laryngeal node lymphadenectomy, cervical lymphadenectomy, and thoracic duct resection, in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. We also describe new concepts in surgical anatomy of the upper mediastinum and technologies, for example, near-infrared image-guided lymphatic mapping and intraoperative neural monitoring that facilitate recurrent laryngeal node lymphadenectomy.

Keywords: Esophageal cancer; Intraoperative neural monitoring; Lymphadenectomy; Recurrent laryngeal nerve; Squamous cell carcinoma; Thoracic duct resection.