Potential impact of lateral lymph node dissection (LLND) for low rectal cancer on prognoses and local control: A comparison of 2 high-volume centers in Japan that employ different policies concerning LLND.

Background: Controversy remains around whether the addition of lateral lymph node dissection to total mesorectal excision offers benefits in terms of survival or local control to patients with low rectal cancer. This study aimed to examine the impact of lateral lymph node dissection in the treatment of low rectal cancer on prognosis and local control and to identify patients who might benefit from lateral lymph node dissection at 2 high-volume centers in Japan that employ different policies with regard to adopting lateral lymph node dissection.

Methods: We reviewed outcomes from a total of 1,191 consecutive patients with low rectal cancer (rectal cancer distal to the peritoneal reflection) who underwent total mesorectal excision plus lateral lymph node dissection at 2 high-volume centers (the National Cancer Center and Aichi Cancer Center) in Japan.