Prognostic significance of the number of pelvic lymph nodes removed in patients with early cervical cancer

Abstract

Abstract Objective The aim of this research was to study the prognostic significance of the number of pelvic lymph nodes removed in patients with early cervical cancer. Methods We searched the PubMed database using the terms “cervical cancer” and “lymph nodes” or “lymphadenectomy”. Studies on the association between number of lymph nodes removed and prognosis or survival were identified. We retrospectively studied the relevant research. Results Ten retrospective studies were included. Two studies indicated that the number of lymph nodes had no association with prognosis whereas three studies found a positive relationship. Five studies indicated some factors that could influence the relationship between number of lymph nodes and prognosis. Conclusion The number of lymph nodes removed may positively influence the prognosis of patients with cervical cancer. Some factors may influence the relationship between the extent of lymph nodes removed and patient prognosis. Additional multicenter, prospective studies with large samples are required to confirm the study findings.