: Background/Objectives: Stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a heterogeneous and clinically challenging disease. Despite therapeutic advances, decisions regarding resectability and treatment sequencing remain complex. Multidisciplinary discussion (MDD) is increasingly recognized as key to personalized, evidence-based care. Methods: The "Integrate 6.0" conference gathered approximately 90 lung cancer specialists, including oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists, divided into mixed groups simulating multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings. Groups reviewed complex clinical cases, supported by facilitators providing concise, evidence-based updates. A pre-event survey explored MDT structure and dynamics across institutions. Results: The survey highlighted considerable variability in MDT composition and practices. Most participants had significant involvement in thoracic oncology. Discussions revealed higher consensus in straightforward cases, while complex stage III scenarios-especially with driver mutations or bulky nodal disease-required more nuanced, collaborative decision making. Key topics included neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy, surgery in borderline resectable cases, and managing immune-related toxicities. Conclusions: "Integrate 6.0" effectively connected theoretical knowledge with real-world practice through interactive, multidisciplinary dialogue. It underscored the vital role of MDD in managing complex stage III NSCLC and the need for adaptable treatment strategies. Future conferences should assess MDD's impact on outcomes and expand participation to include molecular pathologists and geriatricians.
Multidisciplinary Decision-Making and Integrated Strategies in Stage III Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Exploring Clinical Reasoning in Therapeutic Choices
Marco Chiappetta;
2026-01-01
Abstract
: Background/Objectives: Stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a heterogeneous and clinically challenging disease. Despite therapeutic advances, decisions regarding resectability and treatment sequencing remain complex. Multidisciplinary discussion (MDD) is increasingly recognized as key to personalized, evidence-based care. Methods: The "Integrate 6.0" conference gathered approximately 90 lung cancer specialists, including oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists, divided into mixed groups simulating multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings. Groups reviewed complex clinical cases, supported by facilitators providing concise, evidence-based updates. A pre-event survey explored MDT structure and dynamics across institutions. Results: The survey highlighted considerable variability in MDT composition and practices. Most participants had significant involvement in thoracic oncology. Discussions revealed higher consensus in straightforward cases, while complex stage III scenarios-especially with driver mutations or bulky nodal disease-required more nuanced, collaborative decision making. Key topics included neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy, surgery in borderline resectable cases, and managing immune-related toxicities. Conclusions: "Integrate 6.0" effectively connected theoretical knowledge with real-world practice through interactive, multidisciplinary dialogue. It underscored the vital role of MDD in managing complex stage III NSCLC and the need for adaptable treatment strategies. Future conferences should assess MDD's impact on outcomes and expand participation to include molecular pathologists and geriatricians.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.


