Resection for internal jugular vein thrombosis and cervical lymph nodes' involvement from gastric cancer

Abstract

Background/Aim: Thrombosis internal jugular vein (IJV) with cervical adenopathy, as first manifestation of gastric cancer is rare. We aimed to compare resection of the cervical mass followed by gastrectomy with gastrectomy alone. Patients and Methods: Nine patients presenting thrombosis of the IJV for gastric carcinoma were divided into two groups. Patients in group A (n=3) underwent anticoagulation treatment, gastrectomy and adjuvant treatment. Patients in group B (n=6) underwent resection of the cervical mass and internal jugular vein (radical neck dissection), and then gastrectomy and adjuvant treatment. Results: Median survival was 15.3 months in group A (range=11-19 months) and 31.2 months in group B (range=7-44 months) (p=0.11). Late cervical recurrence/ complications occurred in 2 patients in group A and none in group B (p=0.02). Conclusion: Resection of thrombosed IJV and satellite lymph nodes, due to a primary gastric cancer may contribute to diagnosis of the disease, limit pulmonary embolic complications and improve quality of life.