Evaluating lymph node metastases in esophageal cancer after surgery

Distribution of Lymph Node Metastases in Esophageal Carcinoma

Observational Academisch Medisch Centrum - Universiteit van Amsterdam (AMC-UvA) · NCT03222895

This study is trying to understand how lymph node cancer spreads in people with esophageal cancer after surgery to see if it can help predict their recovery and survival.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment5000 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorAcademisch Medisch Centrum - Universiteit van Amsterdam (AMC-UvA) Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation, chemotherapy
Locations19 sites (Houston, Texas and 18 other locations)
Trial IDNCT03222895 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the distribution of lymph node metastases in patients with esophageal carcinoma following transthoracic esophagectomy with at least a 2-field lymphadenectomy. It will include patients with resectable esophageal or gastro-esophageal junction carcinoma from multiple centers across 18 countries over a period of approximately 7 years. The study will also evaluate the accuracy of preoperative diagnostics and the prognostic value of different lymph node stations, as well as overall and disease-free survival rates.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients with resectable primary squamous cell or adenocarcinoma of the esophagus or esophago-gastric junction who are in adequate physical condition for surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with previous thoracic or abdominal surgeries that disrupt lymph drainage or those with in situ carcinoma or high-grade dysplasia may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve surgical strategies and outcomes for patients with esophageal cancer by providing insights into lymph node metastasis patterns.

How similar studies have performed: While the study's specific focus on lymph node distribution in a large cohort is novel, similar studies have shown the importance of lymph node status in esophageal cancer prognosis.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Primary squamous cell or adenocarcinoma of the esophagus or esophago-gastric junction
* Surgically resectable (cT1-4a, N0-3, M0)
* Adequate physical condition to undergo transthoracic surgery (ASA 1-3)
* Transthoracic esophagectomy

Exclusion Criteria:

* Previous thoracic or abdominal (upper GI) surgery disturbing lymph drainage of the esophagus and stomach
* Patients with in situ carcinoma or high grade dysplasia

Where this trial is running

Houston, Texas and 18 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Esophageal NeoplasmsLymph Node MetastasesLymph node metastasesEsophagectomy
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.