Thorac Cancer
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This study was conducted to identify whether the presence of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in plasma before treatment with EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) is associated with clinical outcomes. ⋯ Quantitative testing can increase the sensitivity of the ctDNA detection test. Patients with detectable ctDNA had significantly shorter PFS after receiving EGFR-TKIs than those with undetectable ctDNA. Tumor burden may be associated with plasma ctDNA detection. A shorter PFS was associated with detection of ctDNA and extra-thoracic lymph node metastasis. Dynamic changes in the ctDNA level may help predict clinical outcomes.
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We compared the effects of thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) to conventional patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) on several postoperative parameters of recovery after elective video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) lobectomy. ⋯ Compared to PCA, TEA provided better postoperative pain control after VATS lobectomy and facilitated postoperative recovery of bowel function without increasing the length of hospital stay. This beneficial effect of TEA might be attributed to the attenuation of sympathetic hyperactivation, improved analgesia, and reduced opioid use.