Current perspective on resectability in stage III locally advanced NSCLC – The thoracic surgeons’ view
Clemens Aigner, Natalie Baldes, Merjem Begic, Fabian Doerr, Mir Alireza Hoda, Servet Bölükbas
Abstract
Surgical expertise is crucial in determining resectability. Due to differences in surgical expertise, cooperation with other surgical departments, and technical equipment available, a differentiation between "standard resectability" and "resectability with advanced technical requirements" can introduce a clear decision algorithm for interdisciplinary tumorboards. The current 2024 EORTC survey highlights areas with a lack of consensus on surgical indications in stage III NSCLC. T4 NSCLC with involvement of adjacent structures should be managed in high-volume, experienced centers following MDT discussion. Future research should focus on refining selection criteria for surgery and optimize treatment strategies in patients with locally advanced NSCLC.