Researchers of a recent study suggest that anatomic lung resections, such as lobectomy and segmentectomy, are associated with improved long-term survival in patients with early-stage non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) compared with wedge resection. Researchers analyzed data from over 32,000 patients with stage IA NSCLC, using the STS General Thoracic Surgery Database and long-term follow-up information from the National Death Index and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services database. The results indicated that lobectomy had the highest survival rates, with a 5-year overall survival of 71.9% and a 10-year survival of 44.8%. Segmentectomy showed similar outcomes, while wedge resection demonstrated lower survival rates.
The study underscores the value of large-scale, real-world data in complementing randomized controlled trials, providing physicians with critical insights to guide clinical decision-making. While randomized trials have suggested equivalence between lobectomy and sublobar resections, this real-world analysis highlights the benefits of considering diverse patient populations and healthcare settings when making treatment recommendations. Researchers emphasized the importance of integrating both randomized trial results and real-world data to improve patient outcomes and ensure nuanced, informed treatment strategies for patients with lung cancer.
Reference: The ASCO Post Staff. Anatomic Lung Resection May Be Linked to Improved Survival in Early-Stage NSCLC. The ASCO Post. Published January 28, 2025. Accessed February 15, 2025. https://ascopost.com/news/january-2025/anatomic-lung-resection-may-be-linked-to-improved-survival-in-early-stage-nsclc/
