March 3, 2026Open Access

Characterizing phantom lymph node collection during curative-intent resection of non−small cell lung cancer

Key Points

Phantom lymph node collection is common during early-stage lung cancer surgeries, indicating a need for better practices.
In surgical outcomes, special focus on this phenomenon provides insights into quality improvement metrics.
The assessment leveraged guideline-concordant sampling practices across multiple surgical centers.
This phenomenon may highlight areas for refining surgical techniques, encouraging adherence to established guidelines.

Abstract

Phantom lymph node collection is common during curative-intent resection of early-stage lung cancer. Although not prognostic, its association with guideline-concordant sampling highlights it as a potential target for surgical quality improvement initiatives.

Characterizing phantom lymph node collection during curative-intent resection of non−small cell lung cancer

Key Points

Abstract

Cite This Study