The metastatic lymph node ratio is a better prognostic factor than the number of metastatic limph node after curative resection for gastric cancer.

Aim: Evaluate impact of lymph node ratio as prognostic factor in gastric cancer.

Methods: We studied 463 patients with gastric cancer who underwent curative gastric surgery with D1 or D2 lymphadenectomy, Data were collected from May 1996 through December 2010 at Department of General Surgery of Parma University Hospital. We divided patients in two groups according to number of nodes removed Results: The results of the present nonrandomized retrospective single centre study confirm the promising role of the LNR as an independent prognostic factor.

Experience of 463 cases of gastric cancer from a single surgical center.

Aim: To evaluate clinical and histopathological changes of gastric cancer (GC) in the last fifteen years and analyze factors influencing overall survival.

Material Of Study: We have retrospectively categorized patients submitted to surgery for GC from January 1996 to December 2010. The analysis focused on two periods: 1996-2003 (period 1) and 2004-2010 (period 2).