Abstract
There is no consensus as to the optimal management of IIIA (N2) non–small cell lung cancer, nor for the role of surgery in treating this disease stage. Clinical trial evidence struggles to keep up with technology advancement and the evolution of expert opinion. Despite advances in chemotherapeutic regimens, methods of delivery for radiation, and less invasive surgical techniques, survival for patients with stage IIIA-N2 malignancies remains poor. Further developments in both will stimulate and maintain controversy in the field for years to come. © 2016 Elsevier Inc.