Predictive value of multivariate models combining CT-based extracellular volume fraction with clinicopathological parameters for preoperative detection of occult lymph node metastasis in gastric cancer

It is a great challenge for clinicians to evaluate occult lymph node (LN) status in gastric cancer (GC). The N (+) group demonstrated higher CT-based extracellular volume (ECV) fractions and tumor area, and higher proportions of poorly cohesive carcinoma and poor differentiation. This model helped preoperative detection of occult LN metastasis and stratifying postoperative recurrence risk in GC.