# A Nomogram to Predict Cancer-Specific Survival of Transitional Cell Carcinoma of Ureter After Surgery

## TL;DR

This study develops a nomogram to predict cancer-specific survival after surgery for ureteral transitional cell carcinoma, identifying age and tumor stage as key factors.

## Contribution

The paper introduces a novel nomogram for predicting survival outcomes in ureteral cancer patients post-surgery.

## Key findings

- 1-, 3-, and 5-year cancer-specific survival rates were 88.2%, 68.1%, and 60.3%, respectively.
- Age, tumor stage, and radiotherapy use were significant prognostic factors for survival.
- A nomogram was developed to help clinicians predict patient outcomes based on these factors.

## Abstract

Background and Objectives: Due to the rare focus on ureteral cancer survival analyses, this study investigates post-surgery cancer-specific survival (CSS) rates, along with prognostic factors affecting these outcomes. It aims to enhance understanding of disease progression and determinants of patient survival and develop a nomogram for reference. Materials and Methods: This research undertook a retrospective analysis of ureteral cancer patients who received surgical intervention from 2010 to 2017, utilizing data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. The primary endpoint was survival, with 1-, 3-, and 5-year CSS rates calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Initial univariate Cox proportional hazards analyses identified factors impacting survival, with those yielding a p-value under 0.05 progressing to multivariate Cox regression analysis to ascertain significant prognostic indicators. Results: The investigation encompassed 2277 patients diagnosed with ureteral cancer. CSS rates at 1, 3, and 5 years post-surgery were observed at 88.2%, 68.1%, and 60.3%, respectively. Multivariate analyses identified age, staging of tumor, node and metastasis, and the application of radiotherapy as significant prognostic indicators for CSS. Based on these factors, a post-surgical nomogram for CSS was developed. Conclusions: The survival outcomes for ureteral cancer are not yet satisfactory. Age and stage emerge as pivotal prognostic elements, significantly impacting CSS following surgery. Recognizing these factors is essential for clinicians, as they offer critical insights that inform treatment strategies and patient management.