Tracers in Gastric Cancer Surgery

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Gastric cancer is a major health risk, and surgery is the primary curative option. However, the appropriate extent of lymph node dissection and appropriate surgical margins are two major issues that need to be addressed. Clinical tracers are an excellent solution. Therefore, we compiled a list of common clinical tracers for gastric cancer surgery to help surgeons better select and use them. ABSTRACT: The treatment of gastric cancer mainly depends on radical gastrectomy. Determination of appropriate surgical margins and adequate lymph node (LN) resection are two major surgical steps that directly correlate with prognosis in gastric cancer. Due to the expanding use of minimally invasive procedures, it is no longer possible to locate tumors and LNs through touch. As an alternative, tracers have begun to enter the field due to their capacities for intraoperative visualization. Herein, we summarize the application of contemporary tracers in gastric cancer surgery, including isosulfan blue, methylene blue, patent blue, indocyanine green, carbon particles, and radioactive tracers. Their mechanisms, administration methods, detection efficiency, and challenges, as well as perspectives on them, are also outlined.