[Recurrence of non-small cell bronchial cancer: indications and results of surgical treatment].

Bronchoscopic laser application and radiotherapy are very effective in treating the recurrence of bronchogenic carcinoma. Reoperation is rarely possible. During the period from January 1981 to June 1989, 242 patients underwent lung resection at the Bundeswehrhospital Ulm because of malignant airway disease. In ten of these patients reoperation was performed in case of tumour recurrence. The median survival time was 17 months (2 to 60 months). Comparing the literature with our own experience we conclude that operative treatment of bronchogenic recurrences is possible in few selected cases. The indication for reoperation depends on the stage of the primary tumour, the spread of the recurrence and the physiological status of the patient.