Integrating Neoadjuvant Immunotherapy and Surgery for NSCLC: From Biomarkers to Optimized Resection Tactics

Dear Colleagues,

The advent of neoadjuvant chemo-immunotherapy (chemo-IO) in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) has created a complex and dynamic therapeutic space. To maximize patient benefit, success hinges not only on the systemic therapy response but also on precision surgery in a biologically altered environment. This Special Issue will address this pivotal intersection, providing a comprehensive roadmap for the modern multidisciplinary lung cancer team.

We will dedicate equal weight to two critical domains. The first 50% focuses on the oncological and translational science, including identifying optimal regimens, predicting pathological response (MPR/pCR), and utilizing biomarkers such as ctDNA and PD-L1. The remaining 50% will address surgical and clinical challenges, such as managing tissue fibrosis, defining the extent of resection (sublobar vs. lobectomy), and refining operative tactics to ensure safety and efficacy.

The four thematic sections will explore the following: Predicting and Monitoring Response (Biomarkers, Liquid Biopsy), Pathological and Radiological Assessment (pCR/MPR standardization, Advanced Imaging), Navigating the Technical Challenges (Fibrosis tactics, MIS vs. Open Surgery, R0 in pCR setting), and Redefining Strategy and Outcomes (Sub-Lobar Resection criteria, Multidisciplinary Tumor Board decisions, Long-Term Outcomes).

This collection is highly valuable as it reflects the current state of the art in thoracic oncology, serving as a definitive reference for the entire multidisciplinary team.

I warmly invite you to submit your original research and reviews.

Dr. Piergiorgio Solli
Dr. Giovanni Leuzzi
Guest Editors

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