Perioperative management and postoperative outcomes of locally advanced thymic epithelial tumors: a narrative review.

Abstract

Background and objective: Thymic epithelial tumors (TETs) are frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage, highlighting the importance of understanding the treatment strategies for these cases. Surgical intervention after chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy presents specific challenges and underscores the crucial role of perioperative management. This study aimed to explore the perioperative management and postoperative outcomes in patients with locally advanced TETs.

Methods: Relevant studies published between 2000 and 2022 were identified through PubMed searches using a combination of the following terms: "Locally advanced TETs", "Thymoma", "Thymic cancer", "Surgery", "Induction therapy", and "Postoperative outcomes". We analyzed available data to describe the perioperative management and postoperative outcomes of locally advanced TETs.

Key content and findings: Surgical outcomes after induction therapy for locally advanced TETs were analyzed for 18 references (total n=646) between 2000 and 2022. The primary objective of induction therapy for locally advanced TETs is complete tumor resection. In recent years, many medical centers have adopted systemic chemotherapy and chemoradiation for the treatment of thymoma and thymic carcinoma, respectively. During surgical intervention, resecting the surrounding organs, such as the lungs, pericardium, and phrenic nerves, is a common practice. Additionally, there may be cases wherein vascular resection of the superior vena cava (SVC) and innominate veins is necessary. Techniques and strategies for revascularization without complications are crucial in these situations. The incidence of postoperative complications varied significantly, ranging from 4.8% to 42%. However, perioperative mortality is typically reported to be approximately 0%, with only two reports showing mortality rates of 1.8% and 9.0%.

Conclusions: The short-term postoperative outcomes of surgical treatment following induction therapy for locally advanced TETs were generally deemed acceptable. However, incomplete resection may occur, particularly when the tumor invades the pulmonary artery or aorta. Hence, careful evaluation the indications for surgery is crucial, considering the patient's overall condition and treatment response.