Lymph node metastasis with adenocarcinoma of the gastric cardia: clinicopathological analysis and indication for D1 dissection.

PURPOSE: To establish the indications for proximal resection with dissection of perigastric lymph nodes in order to treat adenocarcinoma of the gastric cardia.
METHODS: We analyzed the clinicopathological features of 110 resected adenocarcinomas of the gastric cardia with respect to the appropriate operative method and extent of lymphadenectomy for treatment.
RESULTS: Of the 110 patients, 93 underwent curative resection. The D2 group (total gastrectomy with dissection of extended regional lymph nodes) revealed higher morbidity and mortality rates compared to the D1 group (proximal resection with dissection of perigastric lymph nodes). The risk of lymph node metastasis was determined by depth of invasion, size of tumors, and gross findings of tumors.
CONCLUSION: The appropriate operative method for adenocarcinoma of the gastric cardia requires: (i) tumor size less than 4 cm; and (ii) gross findings indicating a superficial type of lesion, which are recommended for proximal resection with dissection of perigastric lymph nodes.