A retrospective study on 68 patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (
NSCLC) treated by extended resections is presented. Compared to simple
resections extended resections carried a higher risk for postoperativ
e complications, whereas 30-days-mortality was not influenced by type
of resection. Analysis of survival rates after extended resections rev
ealed no influence by T- or N-stage, whereas a residual tumor lowered
the survival rates significantly. Overall, a 2-year-survival rate of 3
5% was observed after extended resections. In conclusion, even in loca
lly advanced cases of NSCLC a resection with curative intent seems to
be warranted, provided that a R0-stage can be achieved by surgery.