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Study protocol No. of edition: V1.2
Date of edition: 2014.12.22
I
Randomized Controlled Trials on Laparoscopic
Spleen-Preserving Splenic Hilar Lymphadenectomy during Total
Gastrectomy forAdvanced Proximal Gastric Cancer (FUGES-02)Study protocol
Research center: Fujian Medical University Union Hospital
Principle Investigator:
Prof. Chang-Ming Huang, M.D.
Department of Gastric Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital,
Address: No. 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou 350001 Fujian Province, China.
Telephone: +86-591-83363366, Fax: +86-591-83363366
E-mail: [email protected]
No. of edition: V1.2
Date of edition: 2014.12.22

Study protocol No. of edition: V1.2
Date of edition: 2014.12.22
II
Summary
Protocol
Title
Randomized Controlled Trials on Laparoscopic Spleen-Preserving Splenic
Hilar Lymphadenectomy During Total Gastrectomy for Advanced
Proximal Gastric Cancer
Protocol
Version
V1.2
PI Chang-Ming Huang
Research
Centers
Fujian Medical University Union Hospital
IndicationsPatients with locally advanced proximal gastric adenocarcinoma not
invading greater curvature
Research
purpose
To compare the short-term and long-term outcomes between
laparoscopy-assisted total gastrectomy (LATG) with D2 lymphadenectomy
(D2 Group) and D2 minus No.10 lymph node (D2- Group) for advanced
proximal gastric cancer not invading greater curvature
Research
Design
Single center, prospective, open-label, randomized controlled
Case
Grouping
Group A (Study Group): LATG with D2 lymphadenectomy (D2 group)
Group B (Control Group): LATG with D2-No.10 lymphadenectomy (D2-
group)
Determinati
on of
Sample
Size
The projected 3-year disease free survival (DFS) rate of the D2 and D2-
groups were 61.6% and 53.7% respectively. According to the noninferiority
design, this analysis was based on an α of 0.025, a power of 90%, and a
margin delta of 7.2%, revealing that at least 224 patients would be
necessary per group. Considering an expected dropout rate of 20%, it was
determined that each group needed at least 268 patients. The sample size
was calculated by using nQuery Advisor 7.0 (Statistical Solutions, Cork,
Ireland).
Inclusion
Criteria
Age between 18 and 75 years
Endoscopic biopsy confirmed primary gastric adenocarcinoma
(including pap, tub, muc, sig, and por) of the proximal stomach not
invading the greater curvature

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cT2-4a, N0/+, M0 at preoperative evaluation according to the
American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) Cancer Staging Manual,
7th Edition
Performance status of 0 or 1 on Eastern Cooperative Oncology
Group scale (ECOG)
American Society of Anesthesiology score (ASA) class I, II, or III
Written informed consent
Exclusion
Criteria
Women during breast-feeding or pregnancy
Severe mental disorder
Previous upper abdominal surgery (except laparoscopic
cholecystectomy)
Previous gastrectomy, endoscopic mucosal resection, or
endoscopic submucosal dissection
Other malignant disease within the past 5 years
Enlarged or bulky regional lymph node (diameter over 3cm) supported by preoperativeimaging including enlarged or bulky No.10 lymph nodes
Previous neoadjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy
Unstable myocardial infarction, angina, or cerebrovascular
accident within the past 6 months
History of continuous systematic administration of corticosteroids
within one month
Forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) < 50% of
predicted values
Requirement of simultaneous surgery for other disease
Emergency surgery due to complication (bleeding, obstruction or
perforation) caused by gastric cancer
Withdraw
Criteria
Patients intraoperatively/postoperatively confirmed as M1:
preoperative examination revealed no evidence of distant metastasis
but intraoperative exploration/postoperative pathological examination
confirmed distant metastases (liver, peritoneum, pelvic metastasis, and
distant lymph node metastasis, among others); the peritoneal lavage
cytological examination result is positive after the operation

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Patients intraoperatively/postoperatively confirmed as T4b
Patients intraoperatively confirmed as unable to complete D2 or D2-
lymph node dissection/R0 resection due to tumor: unable to complete
R0 resection due to regional lymph node integration into a mass or
surrounded with important blood vessels that cannot be resected
Intraoperative spleen and spleen vessels have obvious tumor
infiltration requiring combined splenectomy
Simultaneous surgical treatment of other diseases
After enrollment, a serious comorbidity (unable to tolerate surgery or
anesthesia) occurred before surgery, and the treatment plan for the
study is not suitable or could not be implemented as planned
Patients confirmed to require emergency surgery by attending
physicians due to changes in the patient's condition after inclusion in
this study
Patient requested to withdraw or suspend treatment for personal
reasons at any stage after the patient enrolled the study
Treatment implemented is proven to violate study protocol
Interventio
n
For patients who are assigned to D2 group, LATG with D2 lymph node
dissection (including spleen-preserving No. 10 lymph node dissection) will
be performed
Endpoints
Primary Outcome Measures:
3-year disease-free survival rate
Secondary Outcome Measures:
Postoperative morbidity and mortality in 30 days
Intraoperative morbidity rate
Number of retrieved LNs
Number of retrieved No. 10 LN
Metastasis rate of No. 10 LN
3-year overall survival rate
3-year recurrence pattern
Rate of splenectomy
Postoperative recovery course
Postoperative nutritional status and quality of life

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Inflammatory and immune response
Technical performance
The Surgery Task Load Index (SURG-TLX)
LN noncompliance rate
Statistical
Considerati
ons
Statistical analysis will be performed using SPSS 18.0 statistical software.
In addition to the non-inferiority validation of the primary efficacy and
safety indicators, other analyses used a differential test. All statistical tests
will be performed using a two-sided test. The statistically significant test
level is set at 0.05, and the interval of the parameters is estimated to be a
95% confidence interval. Baseline data and validity analyses will be
performed using a modified intent-to-treat (MITT) analysis. The main
efficacy indicators are simultaneously analyzed by a per-protocol (PP)
basis, but the conclusions of the MITT analysis are the main ones. The
safety evaluation will be analyzed by Safety Analysis Population (SAP).
Missing data are not filled. Quantitative data are analyzed by t test,
ANOVA, ANCOVA, and nonparametric tests; qualitative data are
analyzed by Pearson X2 test, CMH test, logistic regression, etc.; grade data
are analyzed by a rank-based nonparametric method; survival data are
analyzed by the KM method and Cox model. Sensitivity analysis is
performed on extreme outlier data. Subgroup analysis are performed in
specific situations

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Table of Contents
1. Background---------------------------------------------------------------------------------1
2. Purpose--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2
3. Study Design--------------------------------------------------------------------------------3
4. Study objects--------------------------------------------------------------------------------3
4.1 Inclusion Criteria-----------------------------------------------------------------------4
4.2 Exclusion Criteria----------------------------------------------------------------------4
4.3 Withdrawal Criteria -------------------------------------------------------------------5
4.4 Selection of Subjects------------------------------------------------------------------6
5. End Point -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------7
5.1 Primary Outcome Measures----------------------------------------------------------7
5.2 Secondary Outcome Measures-------------------------------------------------------7
6. Diagnostic Criteria of This Study--------------------------------------------------------8
7. Qualification of the Participating Surgeons---------------------------------------------9
8. End Point Definition and Relevant Results--------------------------------------------11
9. Standard Operation Procedures (SOPs) -----------------------------------------------16
10. Statistical Analysis ----------------------------------------------------------------------66
11. Data Management -----------------------------------------------------------------------69
12. Relevant Provisions on Adverse Events ----------------------------------------------70
13. Ethical Considerations ------------------------------------------------------------------76
15. References---------------------------------------------------------------------------------81
16. Annex--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------84
16.1 Informed Consent Form-------------------------------------------------------------84

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1. Background
Worldwide, gastric cancer (GC) is the fourth most common cancer and the
second-leading cause of cancer-related death. Tumor radical surgical resection is the
only treatment possibility to cure gastric cancer patients. The splenic hilar lymph node
(No. 10 LN) is an important station of LNs in the perigastric lymphatic drainage. The
No.10 LN dissection has been admitted for patients with advanced proximal gastric
cancer (APGC) invading the greater curvature according to the Japanese treatment
guidelines for gastric cancer. However, it is still controversial for patients with APGC
not invading the greater curvature.
Previous studies reported that the metastasis rate of the No. 10 LN in APGC is
ranged 8.4%~ 20.9%, and the dissection of No.10 LN was closely related to the
long-term survival. Chikara found that the 5-year survival rate of the No. 10 and No. 11
LN positive was significantly lower than that of the negative (23.8% vs. 41.4%,
P<0.05). Therefore, it is necessary to dissect No. 10 LN of locally advanced GC
through radical D2 surgery. Splenectomy was once performed simultaneously for
achieving No. 10 LN dissection. However, a series of prospective randomized
controlled trial (RCT) have confirmed that splenectomy should be avoided as it
increases operative morbidity and mortality without improving survival compared to
spleen preservation surgery. Therefore, spleen-preserving No. 10 LN dissection has
been accepted by more and more surgeons. However, due to the deep position and
narrow anatomical space, it is difficult to obtain a well vision during open surgery for
No.10 lymphadenectomy. Additionally, factors such as: variation of splenic vessels,

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multiple splenic lobe of vessels branches, adhesion of omentum and spleen, making the
spleen-preserving No.10 lymphadenectomy (SPL) surgery difficult, and injury of the
spleen or splenic vessel occur frequently. Therefore, how to perform SPL safely and
effectively is one of the focuses of current research.
Because of the development of laparoscopic surgical equipment and the
improvement of surgeons’ skills, laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG) involves no more work
or stress than open gastrectomy (OG) for surgeons in East Asian countries, such as
Korea, Japan, and China, which are endemic areas of gastric cancer. Surgeons in South
Korea and Japan first performed laparoscopic spleen-preserving No. 10 LN dissection
(LSPL) for PGC and determined that the operation was safe and feasible. Subsequently,
studies have confirmed the safety, feasibility and oncological efficacy of LSPL. Our
center proposed a new technique named Huang’s three-step maneuver for LSPL, which
simplifies the No.10 lymphadenectomy, and makes it more safety and easier to learn.
Therefore, since there was no consensus on whether No.10 LN dissection is
needed for APGC without greater curvature invaded during D2 lymphadenectomy, we
designed a prospective, randomized trial to compare the surgical outcomes between
laparoscopy-assisted total gastrectomy (LATG) with D2 lymphadenectomy (D2 Group)
and D2- No.10 LN (D2- Group) for APGC not invading greater curvature.
2. Purpose
To compare the short-term and long-term outcomes between LATG with D2
lymphadenectomy (D2 Group) and D2-No.10 LN (D2- Group) for advanced proximal
gastric cancer (cT2-4a, N0/+, M0) not invading greater curvature.

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3. Study Design
Prospective, single center, open, parallel assignment, randomized controlled
3.1 Single center
Department of gastric surgery in Fujian Medical University Union Hospital
3.2 Case group
Group A (Study Group): LATG with D2 lymphadenectomy (D2 group)
Group B (Control Group): LATG with D2-No.10 lymphadenectomy (D2- group)
3.3 Estimate sample size
The projected 3-year disease free survival (DFS) rate of the D2 and D2- groups
were 61.6% and 53.7% respectively. According to the noninferiority design, this
analysis was based on an α of 0.025, a power of 90%, and a margin delta of 7.2%,
revealing that at least 224 patients would be necessary per group. Considering an
expected dropout rate of 20%, it was determined that each group needed at least 268
patients. The sample size was calculated by using nQuery Advisor 7.0 (Statistical
Solutions, Cork, Ireland).
3.4 Blind method:This research adopts an open design
3.5 Research cycle
Estimated enrollment cycle: complete enrollment within 4 years
Follow-up period: begin at the enrollment of the first case and end 3 years after
the enrollment of the last case.
Estimated time: 2015.01-2019.01( to complete enrollment) - 2022.01( to
complete follow-up)
4. Study objects

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After clinical staging, all patients who meet the inclusion criteria and do not
conform to the exclusion criteria are qualified for this study.
4.1 Inclusion criteria
(1) Age between 18 and 75 years
(2) Endoscopic biopsy confirmed primary gastric adenocarcinoma (including pap, tub,
muc, sig, and por) of the proximal stomach not invading the greater curvature
(3) cT2-4a, N0/+, M0 at preoperative evaluation according to the AJCC Cancer Staging
Manual, 7th Edition
(4) No distant metastasis, no significantly enlarged lymph nodes around abdominal
main artery, no direct invasion of pancreas, spleen or other adjacent organs in the
preoperative examinations
(5) Performance status of 0 or 1 on ECOG scale
(6) ASA class I, II, or III
(7) Written informed consent
4.2 Exclusion Criteria
(1) Women during breast-feeding or pregnancy
(2) Severe mental disorder
(3) Previous upper abdominal surgery (except laparoscopic cholecystectomy)
(4) Previous gastrectomy, endoscopic mucosal resection, or endoscopic submucosal
dissection
(5) Other malignant disease within the past 5 years
(6) Enlarged or bulky regional lymph node (diameter over 3cm) supported by

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preoperative imaging including enlarged or bulky No.10 lymph nodes
(7) Previous neoadjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy
(8) Unstable myocardial infarction, angina, or cerebrovascular accident within the past
6 months
(9) History of continuous systematic administration of corticosteroids within one month
(10) FEV1<50% of predicted values
(11) Requirement of simultaneous surgery for other disease
(12) Emergency surgery due to complication (bleeding, obstruction or perforation)
caused by gastric cancer
4.3 Withdraw Criteria
(1) Patients intraoperatively/postoperatively confirmed as M1: preoperative
examination revealed no evidence of distant metastasis but intraoperative
exploration/postoperative pathological examination confirmed distant metastases (liver,
peritoneum, pelvic metastasis, and distant lymph node metastasis, among others); the
peritoneal lavage cytological examination result is positive after the operation;
(2) Patients intraoperatively/postoperatively confirmed as T4b
(3) Patients intraoperatively confirmed as unable to complete D2 or D2- lymph node
dissection/R0 resection due to tumor: unable to complete R0 resection due to regional
lymph node integration into a mass or surrounded with important blood vessels, which
cannot be resected;
(4) Intraoperative spleen and spleen vessels have obvious tumor infiltration requiring
combined splenectomy

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(5) Simultaneous surgical treatment of other diseases
(6) After enrollment, a serious comorbidity (unable to tolerate surgery or anesthesia)
occurred before surgery, and the treatment plan for the study is not suitable or could not
be implemented as planned
(7) Patients confirmed to require emergency surgery by attending physicians due to
changes in the patient's condition after inclusion in this study
(8) Patients who request to withdraw or suspend treatment for personal reasons at any
stage after the patient is enrolled the study
(9) Treatment implemented is proven to violate study protocol
4.4 Selection of subjects
After clinical staging, all patients who meet the inclusion criteria and do not
conform to the exclusion criteria are qualified for this study.
(1) Patients should meet the following conditions when they are admitted to the hospital
and undergo physical examination: age >18 and <75 years; preoperative ECOG
performance score of 0/1; non-pregnant or lactating women; no serious mental illness;
no history of abdominal surgery (except for laparoscopic cholecystectomy); no history
of gastric surgery (including ESD/EMR for gastric cancer); no other malignant disease
history within five years; no history of unstable angina or myocardial infarction within
six months; no history of sustained systemic corticosteroid therapy within one month;
no requirement for simultaneous surgical treatment of other diseases; pulmonary
function test with FEV1 ≥50% of the expected value; and no history of cerebral
infarction or cerebral hemorrhage within six months.

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(2) Endoscopic examination of the primary lesion in the patient (recommended
endoscopic ultrasound endoscopy, EUS) and histopathological biopsy showed gastric
adenocarcinoma (papillary adenocarcinoma [pap], tubular adenocarcinoma [tub],
mucinous adenocarcinoma [muc], signet ring cell carcinoma [sig], and poorly
differentiated adenocarcinoma [por]). Total abdominal CT is performed on the patient,
and no enlarged lymph nodes (maximum diameter ≥ 3 cm) are found in the periplasmic
area, including significant enlargement or merging of the No. 10 LNs into a group or
local invasion/distance metastasis. No obvious tumor infiltration is found in the spleen
and spleen vessels.
(3) Patient is explicitly diagnosed with APGC, has a preoperative staging assessment of
T2-4a, N0-3, M0 not invading the greater curvature.
(4) Patients do not require neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy or chemotherapy and the
attending doctor does not recommend that they receive neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy
or chemotherapy.
(5) Patient's ASA score is I-III.
(6) Patient does not require emergency surgery.
(7) At this time, the patient becomes potentially eligible.
5. End Point
5.1 Primary Outcome Measures
3-year disease-free survival rate
5.2 Secondary Outcome Measures
Postoperative morbidity and mortality in 30 days

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Intraoperative morbidity rate
Number of retrieved LNs
Number of retrieved No. 10 LN
Metastasis rate of No. 10 LN
3-year overall survival rate
3-year recurrence pattern
Rate of splenectomy
Postoperative recovery course
Postoperative nutritional status and quality of life
Inflammatory and immune response
Technical performance
The Surgery Task Load Index (SURG-TLX)
LN noncompliance rate
6. Diagnostic Criteria for This Study
(1) The AJCC-7th TNM tumor staging system will be used for this study.
(2) Diagnostic criteria and classification of gastric cancer: According to the
histopathological international diagnostic criteria, classification will be divided into
papillary adenocarcinoma (pap), tubular adenocarcinoma (tub), mucinous
adenocarcinoma (muc), signet ring cell carcinoma (sig), and poorly differentiated
adenocarcinoma (por).
(3) Definition of advanced stage: tumor infiltration of the stomach wall reaches or
exceeds the inherent muscular layer (T2); T2, T3, and T4a patients will be included as

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study subjects, whereas T4b patients will not.
(4) Definition of upper gastric cancer: According to "Japanese classification of gastric
carcinoma: 3rd English edition", the stomach is anatomically divided into three portions,
the upper (U), middle (M), and lower (L) parts, by the lines connecting the trisected
points on the lesser and greater curvatures. Proximal gastric cancer is defined as: the
tumor center is located in the upper or middle part of the stomach (U/M), and the upper
edge of the tumor does not involve the esophagus (bounded by the dentate line
connecting the esophagus and the stomach), as shown in Fig. 1.
Fig. 1. The three portions of the stomach. U upper third, M middle third, L lower
third, E esophagus, D duodenum.
(5) No. 10 LN definition: According to "Japanese classification of gastric carcinoma:
3rd English edition", No. 10 LNs are defined as: splenic hilar LNs, including those
adjacent to the splenic artery distal to the pancreatic tail, those on the roots of the short
gastric arteries and those along the left gastroepiploic artery proximal to its 1st gastric
branch.

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7. Qualifications of the participated Surgeons
7.1 Basic principle
All candidate surgeons in our study met the following criteria:
Performed at least 50 LATG.
Pass the blind surgical video examination.
7.2 Checklist for determination of success about D2 lymphadenectomy
Scoring Method for D2 Lymph Node Dissection Complete Incomplete None
10 5 0
1. Properly full omentectomy
2. Ligation of right gastroepiploic artery at origin
3. Full exposure of common hepatic artery
4. Ligation of right gastric artery at origin
5. Exposure of portal vein
6. Exposure of splenic artery to branch of posterior gastric artery
7. Ligation of left gastric artery at origin
8. Ligation of left gastroepiploic artery at origin
9. Ligation of all posterior and short gastric artery at origin
10. Exposure of gastroesophageal junction
□ □ □
□ □ □
□ □ □
□ □ □
□ □ □
□ □ □
□ □ □
□ □ □
□ □ □
□ □ □
1. Properly full omentectomy
a. Omentectomy was performed close to transverse colon
b. Omentectomy was performed from hepatic flexure to splenic flexure
c. Anterior layer of transverse colonic mesentery and pancreatic anterior peritoneum

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was dissected.
4. Full exposure of common hepatic artery
a. More than half of anterior part in the common hepatic artery were exposed.
7. Exposure of splenic artery
a. Anterior part in splenic artery was exposed.
b. Splenic artery was exposed from celiac trunk to the terminal branch of the splenic
artery
10. Exposure of gastroesophageal junction
a. Anterior, posterior, left and right side of the abdominal esophagus were exposed.
- D2 lymphadenectomy was accepted if all randomly assigned three investigators rated
85 points and more regarding checklists in unedited video review.
8. End Point Definition and Relevant Results
8.1 Incidence of Operative Complications
8.1.1 Postoperative Complication Rate
The number of patients undergoing surgery is the denominator, and the number of
patients with any of the following postoperative complications is calculated as the
numerator.
Postoperative overall complication rate: Postoperative complications are based on
early surgical complications as mentioned in the postoperative observation program.
The time is defined as within 30 days after surgery, or if the postoperative hospital stay
is >30 days, as the date of the first hospital discharge.
8.1.2 Intraoperative Complications Rate

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With the number of patients undergoing surgery as the denominator, the number of
patients with any of the following intraoperative complications is calculated as
numerator. Intraoperative complications are based on the intraoperative complications
mentioned in the intraoperative observations
8.1.3 Splenectomy Rate
The number of patients undergoing surgery is the denominator, and the number of
patients who had undergone splenectomy due to intraoperative vascular injury or spleen
injury is calculated as the numerator.
8.1.4 Surgical Mortality
The number of all patients receiving surgery is the denominator, and the number of
patients in any of the following situations is the numerator; the denominator and
numerator are used to calculate proportions. This proportion indicated the operative
mortality ratio.
Situations: patients whose death is identified according to documented
intraoperative observation items, including patients who died within 30 days after the
surgery (including 30 days) regardless of the causality between the death and the
surgery, and patients who died more than 30 days after the surgery (whose death is
proven to have a direct causal relationship with the first operation).
8.2 Overall Survival Time
Overall survival is calculated from the day of surgery until death or until the final
follow-up date, whichever occurs first. For surviving subjects, the end point is the last
confirmed date of survival. If loss to follow-up occurs, the end point is the final date

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that survival can be confirmed.
8.3 Definition of Recurrence and Recurrence Date
The following situations are regarded as "recurrence" and should be recorded as
evidence of "recurrence" in the CRF.
(1) Recurrence identified by any one image examination (X-ray, ultrasound, CT,
MRI, PET-CT, endoscope, etc.) and, if a variety of imaging examinations are performed,
the results without contradiction determine "recurrence". The earliest date that
recurrence is found is defined as the "recurrence date".
(2) For cases that lack the use of imaging or a pathological diagnosis, the date we
diagnose the occurrence of clinical recurrence based on clinical history and physical
examination is defined as the "recurrence date".
(3) For cases without imaging or a clinical diagnosis but with a cytology or tissue
biopsy pathological diagnosis of recurrence, the earliest date confirmed by cytology or
biopsy pathology is considered the "recurrence date".
(4) A rise in CEA or other associated tumor markers alone cannot be diagnosed as a
relapse.
8.4 Disease-free Survival: DFS
Disease-free survival is calculated from the day of surgery to the day of recurrence
or death. In the event that neither death nor recurrence of the tumor are observed, the
end point is the final date that a patient is confirmed as relapse-free.
8.5 Determination of Surgical Results
8.5.1 Time of operation: from the beginning of the skin incision to the completion of

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suturing.
8.5.2 Postoperative Rehabilitation Indicators
8.5.2.1 Time to step out of bed, start bowel function, and restore liquid food and
semi-liquid food
Starting from postoperative day 1 to the first postoperative discharge, with initial
recognition of the earliest time for ambulation and the start of bowel function
(flatulence/bowel movement), to restoration of a fluid/semi-fluid diet; records are made
hourly.
Flatulence/bowel movement on the day of surgery is excluded.
In case of no ambulation/flatulence/bowel movement/restoration of a
liquid/semi-liquid diet before the first postoperative discharge, the discharge time
should be recorded as the time of ambulation/flatulence/bowel movement/restoration of
a liquid/semi-liquid diet.
The initial time of ambulation/flatulence/bowel movement/restoration of a
liquid/semi-liquid diet is per patient report.
8.6 Ratio of Conversion to Open Surgery
Ratio, expressed as a percentage, of conversion to open surgery will be calculated
with the number of patients converting to open surgery from a laparoscopy surgery for
any reason as the numerator and the number of patients undergoing laparoscopic
surgery treatment as per protocol among all patients receiving surgical treatment as the
denominator.
An incision length of > 10 cm is defined as a case of conversion to open surgery in

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this study.
8.7 Technical performance
Technical performance was assessed by the Objective Structured Assessments of
Technical Skills (OSATS) and the Generic Error Rating Tool (GERT).
Detailed global 5-point rating scale for OSATS was shown inPlease rate the performance of surgeon on the following scale:
Respect for tissue
1 2 3 4 5
Frequently used unnecessary
force on tissue or caused
damage by inappropriate use
of instruments.
Careful handling of tissue but
occasionally caused inadvertent
damage.
Consistently handled tissues
appropriately with minimal
damage.
Time and motion
1 2 3 4 5
Many unnecessary moves. Efficient time/motion but some
unnecessary moves.
Economy of movement and
maximum efficiency.
Instrument handling
1 2 3 4 5
Repeatedly makes tentative or
awkward moves with
instruments.
Competent use of instruments
although occasionally appeared stiff
or awkward.
Fluid moves with instruments and
no awkwardness.
Knowledge of instruments
1 2 3 4 5
Frequently asked for the wrong
instrument or used an
inappropriate instrument.
Knew the names of most
instruments and used appropriate
instrument for the task.
Obviously familiar with the
instruments required and their
names.
Use of assistants
1 2 3 4 5
Consistently placed assistants
poorly or failed to use
assistants.
Good use of assistants most of the
time.
Strategically used assistant to the
best advantage at all times.
Flow of operation and
forward planning
1 2 3 4 5
Frequently stopped operating
or needed to discuss next
move.
Demonstrated ability for forward
planning with steady progression of
operative procedure.
Obviously planned course of
operation with effortless flow
from one move to the next.
Knowledge of specific
procedure
1 2 3 4 5
Deficient knowledge. Needed
specific instruction at most
operative steps.
Knew all important aspects of the
operation.
Demonstrated familiarity with all
aspects of the operation.
8.8 The Surgery Task Load Index
Surgeons were asked to complete one Surg-TLX questionnaire for each procedure in
both studies after surgery, consisting of 6 subscales addressing mental, physical, and

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temporal demands, task complexity, situation, and distrations. All questions were rated
on a 20-point scale (0 = low, 20 = high).
8.9 Lymph node noncompliance rate
Lymph node noncompliance was defined as the absence of lymph nodes that
should have been excised from more than 1 lymph node station. Major lymph node
noncompliance was defined as more than 2 intended lymph node stations that were not
removed.
9. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
9.1 Case Selection
9.1.1 Selection of Assessment Items

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Clinical examination data of patients conducted from hospital admission to
enrollment into this study (time period is usually 1 week) will be considered baseline
data and must include:
(1) Systemic status: ECOG score, height, weight
(2) Peripheral venous blood: hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cell count (RBC), white blood
cell count (WBC), lymphocyte count (LYM), neutrophils (NEU), neutrophil percentage
(NEU%), platelet count (PLT), monocytes (MONO)
(3) Blood biochemistry: albumin, prealbumin, total bilirubin, indirect bilirubin,
bilirubin direct, AST, ALT, cholesterol, creatinine, urea nitrogen, fasting glucose, K, Ca,
Cl, Na, CRP
(4) Serum tumor markers: CEA, CA19-9, CA72-4, CA12-5, AFP
(5) Full abdominal CT (slice thickness of 10 mm or less; in case of allergy to the
contrast agent, only CT horizontal scanning is allowed)
(6) Upper gastrointestinal endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and biopsy. If EUS is not
possible, ordinary upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and biopsy will be used instead
(7) Chest X-ray (AP and lateral views): cardiopulmonary conditions
(8) Resting 12-lead ECG
(9) Respiratory function tests: FEV1, FVC
9.1.2 Selection Application
For cases that meet all inclusion criteria and none of the exclusion criteria, talk to
patients and their families and sign informed consent. Application and confirmation of
eligibility should be completed preoperatively; postoperative applications will not be

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accepted.
9.2 Preoperative Management
After eligibility is obtained, surgery should be performed within two weeks
(including the 14th day).
In the case of any deterioration of clinical conditions from the selection time to the
expected day of surgery, whether to undergo the elective surgery as planned should be
decided in accordance with the judgment of the doctor in charge. If an emergency
surgery is required, the case should be withdrawn from the PP set according to 4.3
Withdrawal Criteria.
For patients with nutritional risks, preoperative enteral/parenteral nutritional
support is allowed.
For elderly patients, smokers, and high-risk patients with diabetes, obesity, or a
past history of chronic cardiovascular/cerebrovascular or thromboembolic problems,
among others, perioperative low-molecular-weight heparin prophylaxis, lower-limb
antithrombotic massage, active lower limb massage, training in respiratory function and
other preventive measures are recommended. For other potentially high-risk
complications not specified in this study protocol, the doctor in charge can decide on
the most appropriate approach according to clinical practice and should record the
approach in the CRF.
Preoperative fasting, water deprivation and other before-anesthesia patient
requirements should follow the conventional anesthesia program of the research center,
which are not specified in this study.

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For prophylactic antibiotics, the first intravenous infusion should begin 30 minutes
prior to surgery. It is recommended to select a second-generation cephalosporin (there
are no provisions on specific brands in this study); the preparation, concentration and
infusion rate should comply with routine practice, and prophylaxis should not exceed
postoperative three days at a frequency of one infusion every 12 hours. If the patient is
allergic to cephalosporins (including a history of allergy or allergy after cephalosporin
administration), other types of antibiotics are allowed according to the specific clinical
situation and when used over the same time period mentioned.
Patient data to be collected during the preoperative period also includes C-reactive
protein (CRP).
9.3 Standardization of Surgical Procedures
9.3.1 Principle of Surgical Treatments for both group
9.3.1.1 Anesthesia
Surgery is performed with endotracheal intubation under general anesthesia; the
decision to use epidural-assisted anesthesia depends on the anesthetist and is not
regulated in this study.
9.3.1.2 Acquisition of Peritoneal Lavage Cytological Specimens
After laparotomy, peritoneal lavage cytological specimens will be taken first for
postoperative examination (specific method: draw ascites if they are found; if no ascites
are found, 100 ml of physiological saline will be slowly injected into the abdominal
cavity; the irrigation sample will be collected at the pouch of Douglas for examination).
9.3.1.3 Intraoperative Exploration

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After acquiring peritoneal lavage cytological specimens, explore the abdominal
cavity for any peritoneal, hepatic, pelvic, or mesenteric metastases and gastric serosal
invasion.
9.3.1.4 Gastrectomy Regulations
Follow the Japanese Gastric Cancer Treatment Guideline (fourth edition for
physicians, May. 2014) to perform total gastrectomy under the premise of satisfying the
oncological principles.
9.3.1.5 Regulations Regarding Greater Omentum Resection
This study protocol requires total greater omentum resection.
9.3.1.6 Regulations Regarding Digestive Tract Reconstruction
The digestive tract reconstruction method is determined by the surgeon according to
his own experience and the specific intraoperative situation. If instrumental
anastomosis is used, the surgeon determines whether manual reinforced stitching of the
anastomotic stoma is to be performed; the study protocol does not specify.
9.3.1.7 Regulations Regarding Surgery-related Equipment and Instruments
The energy equipment, vascular ligation method, digestive tract cutting closure,
and digestive tract reconstruction instruments are determined by the surgeon
responsible for surgery based on experience and actual needs and are not specified in
this study protocol.
9.3.1.8 Regulations Regarding Gastric Canal and Peritoneal Drainage Tube
Whether the gastric canal or peritoneal drainage tube is left after surgery is
determined by experience and actual needs and is not specified in this study protocol.

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9.3.1.9 Regulations Regarding Concurrent Surgical Treatments
If another organ/system disease is present, the responsible surgeon and the relevant
department consultants will jointly decide whether a concurrent operation is required
and can be performed. The order is determined according to the clinical routine, but
these cases will be excluded from the PP set according to the Exclusion Criteria.
9.3.1.10 Regulations Regarding the Processing of Excluded Patients Identified
Intraoperatively
If the patient is judged to meet the exclusion requirements during the operation,
the study approach will be suspended, and the responsible surgeon will decide upon the
subsequent treatment according to the clinical practice of the research center (the
therapeutic decision, such as whether to excise the gastric primary focus or metastases,
is determined by the responsible surgeon). Data collection and follow-up are still
necessary for the excluded subject and should be incorporated into the ITTP analysis.
9.3.1.11 Regulations Regarding Photography/Imagery
Use a digital camera (at least 8 megapixels) to take pictures; the photo content
required is as follows (see example):
(1) Field of lymph node dissection (6 pictures)
Inferior pylorus region (1 picture); the right gastroepiploic arteriovenous cut site
should be included.
Right-side area of the superior margin of the pancreas (1 picture); the front top of
the entire common hepatic artery, the half front of the inferior proper hepatic artery and
the cut site of the right gastric artery should be included.

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Left-side region of the superior margin of the pancreas (1 picture); the left gastric
arteriovenous cut position, celiac arterial trunk and proximal splenic artery should be
included.
Right side of the cardia and lesser gastric curvature side (1 picture).
Left gastroepiploic vessel dividing position (1 picture); the cut site of the left
gastroepiploic artery and vein should be included.
Splenic hilus region (1 picture); the cut sites of the distal splenic artery and short
gastric vessel should be included.
(2) After the skin incision is closed (1 picture, measuring scale serving as a reference
object).
(3) Postoperative fresh specimens (4 pictures, measuring scale serving as a reference
object); 1 picture before and 3 pictures after dissection (mark focus size; 1 picture each
of distal and proximal incisional margins). After the specimen is cut open along the
greater gastric curvature, a measuring scale is placed as a reference object before taking
pictures to record the following items: the distance between the tumor edge and the
proximal incisional margin (1 picture), the distance between the tumor edge and the
distal incisional margin (1 picture), and the focus size and appearance of the mucosal
face after the specimen is unfolded (1 picture).

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Fig. 2-1 Inferior pylorus area (no. 6 lymph node)
Fig. 2-2 Right-side area of the superior margin of the pancreas (no. 5, no. 8a and no.
12a lymph node)

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Fig. 2-3 Left-side area of the superior margin of the pancreas (no. 7, no. 9 and no. 11p
lymph nodes)
Fig. 2-4 Right side of the cardia and lesser gastric curvature side (the no. 1 and no. 3
lymph node)

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Fig. 2-5 Cut site of the left gastroepiploic vessel (no. 4 sb lymph nodes)
Fig. 2-6 Splenic hilus area (no. 11d and no. 10 lymph nodes)

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Fig. 2-7 Incision appearance (mark the incision length)
Fig. 2-8 Specimen observation (before dissection)

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Fig. 2-9 Specimen observation (focus size; the dissection is made along the greater
gastric curvature, and the focus and incisional margin on the mucosal face are observed;
if the tumor is located at the greater gastric curvature, then the dissection is made along
the lesser curvature)
Fig. 2-10 Specimen observation (the distance between the tumor edge and the proximal
incisional margin)

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Fig. 2-11 Specimen observation (the distance between the tumor edge and the distal
incisional margin)
9.3.1.12 Regulations Regarding Photo/Image Naming and Privacy Protection
(1) No image data shall disclose the personal information of patients.
(2) When the photos/images are viewed or reviewed, personal information must be
processed with mosaics or be covered.
(3) The photographed parts should be marked with a unified Chinese name: inferior
pylorus area; left gastroepiploic vessel cut site; right-side area of superior margin of the
pancreas; left-side area of superior margin of the pancreas; right side of the cardia and
lesser gastric curvature side; splenic hilus area; incision appearance; specimen
observation (before dissection); specimen observation (focus size); specimen
observation (the distance between the tumor edge and the proximal incisional margin);
and specimen observation (the distance between the tumor edge and the distal incisional
margin).

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For example:
Photo Name: [D2 group-subject's random number - Inferior pylorus area]/ [D2-
group-subject's random number - Inferior pylorus area]
Folder name: [D2 group-subject's random number]/ [D2- group-subject's random
number]
9.3.1.13 Basis for Confirming the Quality of Surgery
To confirm the appropriateness of the surgical procedure, surgery quality,
(auxiliary) incision length and specimen integrity will be assessed using the
photographs saved (as stated above). The whole laparoscopic surgery procedure will be
videotaped, and the unclipped image files will be saved.
9.3.1.14 Storage of Image Data
All photographs and data will be saved in the hard disk or portable digital carrier
in digital form, and the surgical video required a specific hard drive to be saved for at
least 3 years.
If failure to provide the complete photo according to “Regulations on
imagery/photographing” is confirmed, the Research Committee will judge and record
the surgery quality as unqualified; however, the case will remain in the PP set data of
this study.
9.3.2 Regulations Regarding Laparoscopy Surgery
9.3.2.1 Regulations Regarding Pneumoperitoneum
Carbon dioxide will be used to maintain the pressure of the pneumoperitoneum at 12-13
mmHg.

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9.3.2.2 Regulations Regarding Punctures andAuxiliary Incision
The positions of punctures and the auxiliary small incision are not specified; the
number of punctures should not exceed 5.
There should be only one auxiliary small incision whose length shall not exceed
the maximum tumor diameter and must be less than 10 cm in normal cases. However, if
the body mass index (BMI) of the patient is greater than 25, the length of the incision
should be less than 13 cm.
If the auxiliary small incision needs to be longer than 10 cm (patients with a
BMI>25 and an incision greater than 13 cm), the surgeon in charge should indicate this
specification and record the reasons in the CRF.
9.3.2.3 Definition of the Laparoscopic Approach
Operations within the abdominal cavity must be performed with laparoscopic
instruments with the support of a camera system.
Perigastric disassociation, greater omentum excision, omental bursa excision,
lymph node dissection, and vessel handling are completed under laparoscopic guidance.
Procedures for gastrectomy and digestive tract reconstruction performed outside
the abdomen through small auxiliary incisions are allowed.
9.3.2.4 Regulations Regarding Laparoscopic No. 10 Lymph Node Dissection with
Spleen Preservation
Dissection of the No. 10 lymph nodes should be performed under laparoscopic
guidance. The LN dissection extent of D2 group includes No. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8a, 9,
10, 11 and 12a LN, while the LN dissection extent of D2- group includes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,

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7, 8a, 9, 11 and 12a.
9.3.2.5 Regulations Regarding Conversion to Laparotomy
When intra-abdominal hemorrhage, organ damage and other
serious/life-threatening complications that are difficult to control occur during
laparoscopic surgery, it is necessary to actively convert to laparotomy.
If the anesthesiologists and surgeons consider that intraoperative complications
caused by carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum may threaten the patient's life, it is
necessary to actively convert to open surgery.
The surgeon in charge can convert the operation to laparotomy due to other
technical or equipment problems and record the reasons.
There is no limit to the length of the incision for conversion to open surgery in
this study.
The reasons for the conversion to open surgery shall be clearly recorded in the
CRF.
Cases for which the length of the auxiliary incision is more than 10 cm (or for
cases of patients with a BMI≥25 and an incision greater than 13 cm) will be regarded as
conversion to open surgery.
9.3.2.6 Subsequent Treatment of Patients Excluded from the Laparoscopic Group
Whether to proceed with laparoscopic surgery or convert to laparotomy will be
determined by the surgeon in charge according to clinical experience.
9.3.3 Observation Items during Surgery
The research assistant should fill in the appropriate content on the day of surgery.

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The specific items include the following:
(1) Name of surgeon in charge
(2) Operation duration (min)
(3) Operation type, extent of lymph node dissection, reconstruction method,
intraoperative injury
(4) Incision length (cm)
(5) Whether the operation will be converted to laparotomy and the reasons
(6) Estimation of intraoperative blood loss [ml; from skin cutting to stitching,
intraoperative blood loss = [postoperative gauze weight (mg) - preoperative gauze
weight (mg)] * 1 ml/mg + suction drainage fluid (ml).
(7) Blood transfusion (ml): the blood transfusion event is defined as component
transfusion (ml) or whole blood transfusion (ml) in this study
(8) Tumor location (U/M) and position (lesser curvature, anterior wall/posterior wall,
whether tumor surrounds the whole wall)
(9) Tumor size (maximum diameter, in mm)
(10) Tumor invasion depth, total number of dissected lymph nodes, number of dissected
lymph nodes of each group, distant metastasis (position)
(11) Length of proximal margin (mm), length of distal margin (mm), radical degree of
operation (R0/R1/R2)
(12) Intraoperative complications (occurring during the time period from skin cutting to
completion of skin stitching):
Intraoperative complications are defined as follows:

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A. Vessel injury: vessel injury is defined when the bleeding should be controlled by
vascular clip or titanium clip and intraoperative vascular ligation or other method.
B. Injury of other organs: includes the following types: phrenic injury, esophageal
injury, duodenal injury, colon injury, small intestine injury, spleen injury (excluding
ischemia of less than 1/3 of the spleen), hepatic injury, pancreatic injury, gallbladder
injury and renal injury.
C. Pneumoperitoneum-related complication: hypercapnia, pneumomediastinum,
subcutaneous emphysema, aeroembolism and respiratory and circulatory disfunction
caused by the pressure of pneumoperitoneum, etc.
D. Anesthetization-related complication: anaphylaxis
(13) Intraoperative death (occurring during the time period from skin cutting to
completion of skin stitching) for any reason
(14) Whether the spleen has been resected and the reasons for dissection
9.4 Postoperative Management
9.4.1 Preventive Use of Analgesics
Continuous postoperative prophylactic intravenous analgesia is allowable but not
mandatory within postoperative 48 hours; which dose, type and rate of infusion should
be determined by the anesthesiologist according to clinical practices and specific
patient conditions. The repeated use of prophylactic analgesics is not allowed beyond
48 hours after the end of surgery, unless it is judged necessary.
9.4.2 Fluid Replacement and Nutritional Support
Postoperative fluid infusion (including glucose, insulin, electrolytes, vitamins, etc.)

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or nutritional support (enteral/parenteral) will be performed based on doctor's
experience and routine clinical practice; there is no specified regulation in this study.
After oral feeding, it is allowable to stop or gradually reduce fluid
infusion/nutritional support.
9.4.3 Postoperative Rehabilitation Management
Management methods for incision, stomach and abdominal drainage tube: Follow
regular diagnosis and treatment approaches.
Eating recovery time, diet transition strategies: Follow regular diagnosis and
treatment approaches.
9.4.4 Patient Discharge Standards
Patients should meet the following criteria for discharge: 1) satisfactory intake of a
soft diet for two meals; 2) limited self-care ability; and 3) absence of complications by
routine clinical examinations.
Discharge shall be recorded in the CRF.
9.4.5 Postoperative Observation Items
Definition of "postoperative day n": A day is from 0:00 to 24:00. Up to 24:00 after
surgery is "postoperative day 0"; the next day from 0:00 up to 24:00 is “postoperative
day 1"; and so on.
From the first postoperative day until hospital discharge, the research assistant
should fill in the following items in a timely manner:
(1) Pathological Results:
Original lesion tissue typing (papillary adenocarcinoma [pap], tubular

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adenocarcinoma [tub], mucinous adenocarcinoma [muc], signet ring cell
carcinoma [sig], and poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma [por])
Tumor invasion depth
Distant metastasis, and position (including intraperitoneal exfoliative cytology)
Histological grading (G1/G2/G3/G4/Gx)
Radical surgery degree (R0/R1/R2)
(2) Postoperative complications:
Postoperative complications divided into early postoperative complications and
postoperative complications. Time definition of "Early stage": Within 30 days after
surgery, or if the postoperative hospital stay is >30 days, it is the first hospital discharge
time. Time definition of "Late stage": 30 days after surgery or above, or after the first
discharge (postoperative days > 30 days) to 3 years after surgery. The diagnostic criteria
for complications are as follows:
Classification and name of
complications
Diagnostic criteria
Abdominal hemorrhage Intra-abdominal hemorrhage requires blood transfusion,
emergency endoscopy or surgical intervention to rule out
anastomotic hemorrhage
Anastomotic hemorrhage After the operation, the gastrointestinal decompression tube
continues to have bright red blood flow, and hemoglobin drops
more than 1 g/dL per day.
Gastrointestinal Gastrointestinal angiography shows that the contrast agent has

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anastomosis leaked from the anastomosis or oral Meilan and shows the blue
drainage fluid of the drainage tube, excluding the duodenal
stump and intestinal fistula.
Duodenal stump Gastrointestinal angiography shows contrast agent leaking from
the duodenal stump, excluding anastomotic leakage and intestinal
fistula
Intestinal fistula Digestive tract angiography shows effusion fluid leakage or oral
Meilan shows blue drainage fluid outflow, excluding anastomotic
leakage and the duodenal stump
Anastomotic stenosis Endoscopic examination via 9.2-mm endoscopy cannot pass the
anastomosis; rule out tumor recurrence
Entering jejunal obstruction Abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting and other symptoms,
combined with abdominal plain film to show a dilated intestinal
fistula in the right upper abdomen, and there is a liquid level, or
barium meal examination finds that the input of the jejunum is
greatly expanded to confirm the diagnosis.
Postoperative intestinal
obstruction
Abdomen X-ray plain film shows multiple fluid levels, indicating
fluid accumulation in the intestinal lumen, and can visualize an
isolated, fixed, and swollen intestinal fistula. Total abdominal CT
shows intestinal wall edema, thickening, adhesion, intestinal
effusion, uniform dilatation of the intestine and exudation in the
abdominal cavity

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Early dumping syndrome Combined with sweating, heat, weakness, dizziness, palpitations,
heart fullness, vomiting, abdominal cramps or diarrhea,
tachycardia, slightly elevated blood pressure, slightly faster
breathing, etc., within 15 to 30 minutes after eating. At the same
time, a solid phase radionuclide gastric emptying scan indicates
that the stomach is rapidly emptied.
Late dumping syndrome Feeling of hunger, palpitations, and sweating 2-3 hours after a
meal. Blood sugar at the time of onset is less than 2.9 mmol/L,
excluding other diseases that cause hypoglycemia
Intestinal ischemic necrosis Digestive endoscopy shows mucosal congestion, edema,
ecchymosis, submucosal hemorrhage, dark red mucosa,
disappearance of the vascular network, and partial mucosal
necrosis, followed by mucosal shedding, ulcer formation,
ring-shaped, longitudinal, serpentine and scattered ulcers
Guilty Postoperative CT shows cyst or cystic mass, intestinal
aggregation, stretching, displacement, abnormal mesenteric
movement, vascular filling thickening
Alkaline reflux esophagitis 1. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and biopsy show evidence of
mucosal inflammation and gastrointestinal metaplasia; 2. CT
scan and gastrointestinal barium meal examination show no input
sputum dilatation or obstruction.
Disruption of wound Including partial slitting and full-layer splitting

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Abdominal wall incision When standing or exerting force, there is a lump in the scar area
or abdominal wall bulging. CT sees continuous interruption of
the anterior wall of the abdomen.
Incision infection The soft tissue is thickened at the incision, and gas is
accumulated in or out of the incision. The incision is red or
swollen or pus is squeezed out from the incision, or secretion
cultures indicate pathogenic bacteria.
Pulmonitis Meets one of the following two diagnostic criteria: 1.
Auscultation voice/percussion voiced sound + one of the
following: new appearance of sputum or sputum trait changes;
blood culture (+); bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, anti-pollution
sample brush, cultured biopsy specimens indicate pathogenic
bacteria. 2. Chest radiographs suggest new or progressive
infiltration + one of the following: new appearance of sputum or
sputum trait changes; blood culture (+); bronchoalveolar lavage
fluid, anti-pollution sample brush, biopsy specimens that produce
pathogenic bacteria; isolation of virus or detection of respiratory
virus IgM, IgG (+)
Acute pancreatitis Dysphoria, abdominal pain, rebound pain, fever, leukocytosis,
increased serum amylase, diagnosed by B ultrasound or CT
within 3 days after operation.
Acute cholecystitis Serum bilirubin more than 85 μmol/l, B ultrasound shows

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gallbladder enlargement, wall thickness, cholelithiasis and
acoustic shadow, deposition in bile, gallbladder dyskinesia.
Pleural effusion/infection CT scan shows a localized low-density area of the thoracic
cavity, which can be accompanied by gas accumulation and
secretion of pathogenic bacteria in the thoracic secretions.
Abdominal infection Within 30 days after the operation, the abdominal cavity has at
least one of the following evidences: 1. drainage of pus, a/no
microbiological examination, 2. microbiological culture, 3.
exploration, pathology, and imaging findings can also be
diagnosed.
Pelvic infection Symptoms of systemic infection or rectal irritation, combined
with rectal examination to touch the tender mass or posterior
hernia puncture for to extract purulent fluid married women,
allow diagnosis
Pyemia There are two simultaneous conditions: 1. There is evidence of
active bacterial infection, but blood culture does not necessarily
have pathogenic bacteria; 2. also meets 2 of the following 4: (1)
body temperature > 39.0 ℃ or < 35.5 ℃ for more than 3 days;
(2) heart rate > 120 beats/min; (3) total number of leukocytes >
12.0 × 10 ~ 9/l or < 4.0 × 10 ~ (9)/l, neutrophil > 0.80, or
infantile granulocyte > 0.10; (4) respiratory frequency > 28/min;
Urinary tract infection Frequent urination, urgency, dysuria and other symptoms, and in

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the absence of antibiotics, urine bacterial culture colony count
1000 ~ 100,000/ml; or no frequent urination, urgency, dysuria
and other symptoms, urine bacterial culture colony count ≥
100,000/ml
Pancreatic fistula The level of amylase in the drainage fluid is more than three
times higher than the normal value of serum.
Bile fistula Abdominal distension, abdominal pain, tenderness, rebound
tenderness, muscle tension, abdominal puncture or drainage fluid
for bile
Chylous fistula The drainage fluid is milky white and >200 mL/d, no reduction
for 48 hours, positive chyme qualitative test, and triglyceride
level >110 mg/dL
Nutritional disorders after
gastrectomy
Patient has weight loss, anemia, malnutrition bone disease,
vitamin A deficiency, etc.; laboratory tests suggest abnormal
intestinal absorption function test; exclude other causes of
nutritional disorders
Metabolic bone diseases
after gastrectomy
There are symptoms of low back pain, shortened length,
hunchback, fracture, etc., and bone density decreases. Combined
with elevated alkaline phosphatase, decreased serum calcium,
serum 25-(O1)D3 and 1,25-(O1)2D3, the concentration of serum
parathyroid hormone increases. Exclude bone diseases caused by
other causes.

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Subcutaneous emphysema In a flat-position X-ray examination, an irregular spot shadow of
subcutaneous light can be seen.
Mediastinal emphysema In a posterior-anterior-position X-ray examination, there is a
narrow gas shadow that rises along the mediastinum side to the
soft tissue of the neck to form a thin line-like dense shadow. In a
lateral-position X-ray examination, a clear translucent band is
visible between the front of the heart and the sternum. If
necessary, CT examination shows a line of dense gas around the
mediastinum, and the mediastinal pleura moves in the direction
of the lung field.
Postoperative cardiac
dysfunction
No symptoms before surgery, postoperative sinus tachycardia,
sinus bradycardia, supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular
tachycardia and other arrhythmias, or heart failure; exclude the
above symptoms caused by other reasons
Hepatic dysfunction No symptoms before surgery, postoperative bilirubin rise and
AST, ALT > 5 times or more
Renal Failure Postoperative progressive renal insufficiency, serum creatinine
increased by 2 mg/dL, or acute renal failure requires dialysis
treatment.
Cerebral embolism The onset is acute, and there are focal neurological deficits such
as hemiplegia and aphasia. Twenty-four to forty-eight hours after
onset, there is a low-density infarction in the embolization site,

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the boundary is not clear and there is no obstruction.
Pulmonary embolism Difficulty breathing, chest pain, syncope, shortness of breath,
right heart dysfunction and hypotension, pulmonary angiography
showing filling defects
Lower limb venous
thrombosis
Local tenderness, swelling, purple skin color, combined with
venography to show filling defects.
Mesenteric artery
embolization
Acute abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal X-ray
findings or intestinal flatness, abdominal angiography allow
filling defects to be diagnosed
DIC 1. There are basic diseases apt to cause DIC. 2. There are more
than 2 clinical manifestations: (1) severe or multiple bleeding
tendency, (2) microcirculatory disorder or shock that cannot be
explained by primary disease, (3) extensive skin mucosal
embolism, focal ischemic necrosis, shedding and ulceration, or
unexplained lung, kidney, brain and other organ failure, (4)
anticoagulant therapy is effective. 3. Laboratory testing meets the
following conditions: (1) there are at least three of the following
experimental abnormalities: platelet count, prothrombin time,
activated partial thromboplastin time, thrombin time, fibrinogen
level, D-dimer, etc., (2) special inspections for difficult or special
cases.
others Complications other than those described above that did not exist

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before surgery
The severity of complications is graded according to the Clavien–Dindo Complications
Scoring System, and grade IIIA and above are serious complications.
Ⅰ: Postoperative complications of unwanted medication, surgery, endoscopy, and reflex
intervention, but including drug treatments for antiemetics, antipyretics, analgesics,
diuretics, electrolytes, physiotherapy, and wound infections at the bedside;
Ⅱ: Need medication for patients who do not include stage 1 medication, incision
infection requires antibiotic treatment, blood transfusion and total parenteral nutrition
are included;
Ⅲ: Need surgery, endoscopy, radiotherapy
Ⅲa: No need for general anesthesia
Ⅲb: Need general anesthesia
Ⅳ: Life-threatening complications (including central nervous system complications)
require IC (intermittent monitoring) or ICU (intensive care) treatment
Ⅳa: An organ dysfunction (including dialysis)
Ⅳb: Multiple organ dysfunction
Ⅴ: death
(3) Blood test items (days 1, 3, and 5 after surgery):
Peripheral blood routine: Hb, RBC, WBC, LYM, NEU, NEU%, PLTMONO
Blood biochemistry: albumin, prealbumin, total bilirubin, AST, ALT, creatinine, urea
nitrogen, fasting blood glucose, potassium, sodium, chloride, calcium
Immune index: CRP

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(4) Postoperative rehabilitation evaluation project:
First time to get out of bed (hour)
First anal exhaust/defecation/bowel sound time (hour)
Restore full-flow, half-feed time (hour)
The highest daily body temperature after surgery to discharge (℃)
Time of removal of gastric tube (d), daily gastric drainage (ml)
Time of removal of abdominal drainage tube (d), daily drainage (ml)
Postoperative blood volume before discharge (ml): In this study, the transfusion
event is defined as the input of red blood cell suspension (ml) or whole blood (ml)
Postoperative hospital stay (d): Surgery until the first discharge
9.5 Follow-up
9.5.1 Follow-up cycle and precautions
The study centers have arranged follow-up specialists to follow up all of the subjects
enrolled in the study. Follow-up every 3 months within 2 years after surgery; follow-up
every 6 months after 2 years (i.e., patients are followed up at 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21,
24, 30, and 36 months after surgery). This study suggests that the above examinations
should be conducted at the research center where the patient is undergoing surgery, but
a review of an external hospital is not excluded. For review of an external hospital, it is
recommended that the hospital be reviewed as a tertiary hospital, and the follow-up
commissioner will track and record the results of each inspection. The results of each
examination will be combined to assess and record the postoperative survival status of
all patients and whether there is tumor recurrence or metastasis. If the patient refuses to

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45
follow up according to the abovementioned protocol, they will be recorded as a lost
subject and analyzed together with the subjects that meet the research criteria at the end
of the study.
9.5.2 Inspection items during follow-up
(1) Full physical examination:
The exam should be carried out by a competent doctor at the time of regular follow-up.
It is necessary to understand the superficial lymph nodes, abdomen and signs of
metastases, etc.
(2) Blood test items:
Peripheral blood routine: Hb, RBC, WBC, LYM, NEU, NEU%, PLT, MONO
Blood biochemistry: albumin, prealbumin, total bilirubin, indirect bilirubin, Direct
bilirubin, AST, ALT, creatinine, urea nitrogen, total cholesterol, triglycerides, fasting
blood glucose, potassium, sodium, chloride, calcium, serum tumor markers: CEA,
CA19-9, CA72-4, CA12-5, AFP
(3) Imaging examination project:
Total abdominal (including pelvic) CT (thickness of 10 mm or less, CT autopsy or
MRI only when allergic to contrast agent), upper gastrointestinal endoscopy
(pathological histological biopsy and endoscopic ultrasound if necessary), chest film
(positive side): lung field condition.
Other assessment methods: gastrointestinal angiography, other parts of color
ultrasound, whole-body bone scan, PET-CT, etc., when the competent doctor thinks it is
necessary.

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9.5.3 Follow-up procedure
9.6 Postoperative adjuvant therapy
9.6.1 Indications for postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy
After completion of the surgical treatment, according to the postoperative
Postoperative 1
mont
h
3
month
s
6
month
s
9
month
s
12
month
s
15
month
s
18
month
s
21
month
s
2
years
2 and
a half
years
3
years
Actual visit date
Physical
examination
Blood routine
Blood chemistry
Tumor markers
Chest film
Upper
gastrointestinal
endoscopy
Abdominal CT
Full belly color
Other(if
necessary)

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47
pathological results, subjects among the R0 resection cases that are stage II and above
are administered postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy according to the provisions of
this program.
For cases of non-R0 resection or recurrence after R0 resection, this study does not
stipulate the follow-up treatment plan; the research center decides on the action to be
taken according to the clinical treatment routine.
9.6.2 Postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy
This study uses a combination of chemotherapy based on 5-FU (5-fluorouracil)
and recommends the SOX regimen.
The adjuvant chemotherapy cycle is half a year (6 months postoperatively).
In cases of good physical and tolerable conditions, chemotherapy is first started
within 8 weeks after surgery and then according to the regularity of the chemotherapy
cycle.
During the chemotherapy period, tumor recurrence should be assessed according
to the follow-up plan.
When tumor recurrence occurs during chemotherapy, the adjuvant chemotherapy
regimen of this study is discontinued. The follow-up treatment is decided by the
research center according to the clinical treatment routine. This study does not make
regulations, but the cause and follow-up treatment plan should be recorded in the CRF.
If there is no recurrence during chemotherapy, adjuvant chemotherapy is
terminated after 6 months, and the follow-up plan continues.
Adjuvant chemotherapy requires written approval from the patient.

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Subjects that refuse postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy or do not complete the
adjuvant chemotherapy are not excluded from this study, but the cause is marked and
recorded in the CRF.
For elderly patients (70 years and older), considering differences in the physical
fitness of the elderly and ensuring the safety of patients, the research center decides
according to the clinical treatment routine. This study does not recommend or stipulate
any chemotherapy regimen for patients of this age.
The principles of processing in terms of the method of administration of adjuvant
chemotherapy, toxic reactions, and dose adjustment with intolerance are implemented
according to the original literature on drug toxicity and dose adjustment for each
chemotherapy regimen. This study does not regulate these principles.
9.6.3 Safety Evaluation Indicators of Postoperative Adjuvant Chemotherapy
The safety evaluation indicators for patients enrolled in the study should be
immediately filled out by the investigators before and after each postoperative adjuvant
chemotherapy cycle, with specific items including the following:
(1) Performance Status (ECOG)
(2) Subjective and objective status (according to the records of CTCAE v3.0 Short
Name)
(3) Blood tests:
Peripheral venous blood assessment: Hb, RBC, WBC, LYM, NEU, NEU%, PLT,
MONO.
Blood biochemistry: albumin, prealbumin, total bilirubin, AST, ALT, creatinine,

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urea nitrogen, fasting blood glucose, serum tumor markers (CEA, CA19-9, CA72-4,
CA12-5, AFP)
(4) Safety evaluation items to be implemented during chemotherapy when necessary
(refer to CTCAE v3.0):
Neurotoxicity
Cardiovascular system (cardiac toxicity, ischemic heart disease, etc.)
Bone marrow suppression and infections due to immune dysfunction
Others
9.7 Study calendar
Observation
Stage
Performance
Status
Blood
biochemistry
Tumorm
arkers
Electrocardiogram,respiratory
function
Uppergastrointestinalendoscopy
ChestX
-ray,fullabdominalC
TOrultrasound
Eligibilityconfirm
ationnotice
Preoperative,postoperativecom
plications
Adverse
chemotherapy
events
CRF-Preoperative
CRF-Intraoperative
CRF-Postoperative
CRF-treatm
entend
CRF-follow
-upobservation
surgery
Selection Application ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
After selection and
prior to surgery
○ ○
Intraoperative period ○ ○
Early postoperative ○ ○ ○

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50
period
Before postoperative
first chemotherapy
○ ○ ○ ○
Regular chemotherapy ○ ○ ○ ○
Follow-up
periodPostoperative
advancedstage
At
postoperative 1
month (±7
days)
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
At
postoperative 3
months (±15
days)
○ ○ ○ ○ ○
At
postoperative 6
months (±15
days)
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
At
postoperative 9
months (±15
days)
○ ○ ○ ○ ○
At
postoperative 1
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

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year (±15 days)
At
postoperative
15 months (±15
days)
○ ○ ○ ○ ○
At
postoperative
18 months (±15
days)
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
At
postoperative
21 months (±15
days)
○ ○ ○ ○ ○
At
postoperative 2
years (±15
days)
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
At
postoperative 2
years (±15
days)
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
At ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

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52
postoperative 3
years (±15
days)
○: must do
9.8 Definitions Involved in SOP
9.8.1 ECOG Performance Status Score
According to the simplified performance status score scale developed by the
ECOG, the patient's performance status can be classified into 6 levels, namely, 0-5, as
follows:
0: Fully active, able to carry on all pre-disease performance without restriction
1: Restricted in physically strenuous activity but ambulatory and able to carry out
work of a light or sedentary nature, e.g., light house work, office work
2: Ambulatory and capable of all self-care but unable to carry out any work
activities. Up and about more than 50% of waking hours
3: Capable of only limited self-care, confined to bed or chair more than 50% of
waking hours
4: Completely disabled. Cannot carry on any self-care. In total, confined to bed or
chair
5: Dead
Patients at levels 3, 4 and 5 are generally considered to be unsuitable for surgical
treatment or chemotherapy.
9.8.2 ASAClassification

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The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) has categorized patients into 5 levels
(I-V levels) according to their physical status and surgical risk before anesthesia as
follows:
Class I: Well-developed patients with physical health and normal function of
various organs, with a perioperative mortality rate of 0.06% -0.08%.
Class II: Patients with mild complications and good functional compensation in
addition to surgical diseases, with a perioperative mortality rate of 0.27% -0.40%.
Class III: Patients with severe complications and restricted physical activity but
still capable of coping with day-to-day activities, with a perioperative mortality rate of
1.82% -4.30%.
Class IV: Patients with serious complications who have lost the ability to perform
day-to-day activities, often have life-threatening conditions, and a perioperative
mortality rate of 7.80% -23.0%.
Class V: Moribund patients either receiving surgery or not, have little chance for
survival, and a perioperative mortality rate of 9.40% -50.70%.
Generally, Class I/II patients are considered good for anesthesia and surgical tolerance,
with a smooth anesthesia process. Class III patients are exposed to some anesthesia
risks; therefore, good preparations should be fully made before anesthesia, and effective
measures should be taken to prevent potential complications during anesthesia. Class
IV patients are exposed to the most risks, even if good preoperative preparations are
made, and have a very high perioperative mortality rate. Class V patients are moribund
patients and should not undergo an elective surgery.

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9.8.3 Oncology-related Definitions
In this study, tumor staging is based on AJCC-7; surgical treatment follows the
Japanese Gastric Cancer Treatment Guidelines, Physicians Edition, 4rd Edition, 2014. ,
and other writing and recording principles follow the Japanese Gastric Cancer Statute
14th.
9.8.3.1 Primary Focus Location and Position
The greater and lesser curvature of the stomach are divided into three equal parts, the U
(upper), M (middle) and L (lower) areas, connected to the corresponding points.
Esophagus and duodenum infiltration are recorded as E (esophagus), and D
(duodenum), respectively. If the lesions are located in two or more adjacent areas, they
should be recorded in the order of the main portions of the lesions. The tumor position
is defined as tumor epicenter located as follow: the stomach’s cross-sectional
circumference is divided into four equal parts: the lesser (Less) and greater (Gre)
curvatures, and the anterior (Ant) and posterior (Post) walls, more than two parts were
defined multiple parts.
Fig. 3. Division of the Three Areas of the Stomach

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55
9.8.3.2 Tumor Staging Record
9.8.3.2.1 Recording Principle
The two staging records for clinical classification and pathological classification
involve T (invasion depth), N (regional lymph node) and M (distant metastasis), which
are expressed in Arabic numerals and denoted as x if indefinite.
Clinical classification Pathological classification
Physical examination X-ray, endoscopy,
diagnostic imaging
laparoscopy, intraoperative observations
(laparotomy/laparoscopy), biopsy,
cytology, biochemistry, biology
examination
Pathological diagnosis of the
endoscopic/surgical specimens
Intraperitoneal exfoliative cytology
9.8.3.2.2 Records of Tumor Invasion Depth
Tumor invasion depth is defined as follows:
TX: Unknown cancer invasion depth
T0: No cancer found
T1: Cancer invasion is only confined to the mucosa (M) or the submucosal tissue
(SM)
T1a: Cancer invasion is only confined to the mucosa (M)
T1b: Cancer invasion is confined to the submucosal tissue (SM)
T2: Cancer invasion exceeds the submucosal tissue but is only confined to the
inherent muscular layer (MP)

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T3: Cancer invasion exceeds the inherent muscular layer (MP) but is only confined
to the subserosal tissue (SS)
T4: Cancer invasion involves the serosa (SE) or direct invasion of adjacent
structures (SI)
T4a: Cancer invasion involves only the serosa (SE)
T4b: Cancer directly invades the adjacent structures (SI)
9.8.3.2.3 Records of Tumor Metastasis
(1) Lymph node metastasis:
NX: Number of lymph node metastases is unknown
N0: No lymph node metastasis
N1: Lymph node metastasis of 1-2 areas
N2: Lymph node metastasis of 3-6 areas
N3: Lymph node metastasis of 7 and more areas
N3a: Lymph node metastasis of 7-15 areas
N3b: Lymph node metastasis of 16 and more areas
Lymph node numbers are defined as follows:
No. Name Definition
1 Cardia right Lymph nodes around the gastric wall first branch (cardia
branch) of ascending branches of the left gastric artery and
those at the cardia sides
2 Cardia left Lymph nodes at the left side of the cardia and those along the
cardia branch of the lower left diaphragmatic artery esophagus

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3a Lesser gastric
curvature
(along the
left gastric
artery)
Lymph nodes at the lesser curvature side along the left gastric
artery branch, below the cardia branch
3b Lesser gastric
curvature
(along the
right gastric
artery)
Lymph nodes at the lesser curvature side along the right gastric
artery branch, partial left side of the 1st branch in the lesser
curvature direction
4sa Left side of
the greater
gastric
curvature
(short gastric
artery)
Lymph nodes along the short gastric artery (excluding the
root)
4sb Left side of
the greater
gastric
curvature
(along the left
gastroepiploic
Lymph nodes along the left gastroepiploic artery and the first
branch of the greater curvature (refer to the definition of No.
10)

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58
artery)
4d Right side of
The greater
gastric
curvature
(along the
right
gastroepiploic
artery)
Lymph nodes at the partial left side of the first branch in the
greater gastric curvature direction along the right
gastroepiploic artery
5 Superior
pylorus
Lymph nodes along the right gastric artery and around the first
branch in the lesser gastric curvature direction
6 Inferior
pylorus
Lymph nodes from the root of the right gastroepiploic artery to
the first branch in the greater gastric curvature direction and
those at the junction of the right gastroepiploic veins and
superior anterior pancreaticoduodenal veins (including the
junction portion)
7 Left gastric
artery trunk
Lymph nodes from the root of the left gastric artery to the
branch portion of the ascending branches
8a Anterior upper
part
of the
common
Lymph nodes at the anterior upper part of the common hepatic
artery (from the branch portion of the splenic artery to the
branch portion of the gastroduodenal artery)

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59
hepatic
artery
8p Posterior part
of the
common
hepatic
artery
Lymph nodes at the posterior part of the common hepatic
artery (from the branch portion of the splenic artery to the
branch portion of the gastroduodenal artery)
9 Surrounding
of the celiac
artery
Lymph gland that is in the surroundings of the celiac artery or
that is a part of each root of the left artery of the stomach,
common hepatic artery and splenic artery as well as that
related to the celiac artery
10 Splenic hilum Lymph gland that is in the surroundings of the celiac artery
and splenic hilum far away from the end of the pancreas,
including the first greater gastric curvature in the root of the
short gastric artery and the left gastroepiploic artery
11p Splenic artery
proximal
Lymph gland at the splenic artery proximal (in a location that
divides the distance between the root of the splenic artery and
the end of the pancreas into two equal parts, including the
proximal side)
11d Splenic artery
distal
Lymph gland at the splenic artery distal (in a location that
divides the distance between the root of the splenic artery and
the end of the pancreas into two equal parts, inclining to the

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end of the pancreas)
12a Within the
hepatoduoden
al
ligament
(along the
proper hepatic
artery)
Lymph gland that is below a location that divides the height of
the confluence portions of the left and right hepatic ducts and
the bile duct in the upper margin of the pancreas into two
equal parts and is along the proper hepatic artery (as stated in
No. 12a2 of the regulations for bile duct carcinoma)
12b Within the
hepatoduoden
al ligament
(along the bile
duct)
Lymph gland that is below a location that divides the height of
the confluence portions of the left and right hepatic ducts and
the bile duct in the upper margin of the pancreas into two
equal parts and is along the proper hepatic artery (as stated in
No. 12b2 of the regulations for bile duct carcinoma)
12p Within the
hepatoduoden
al ligament
(along the
portal vein)
Lymph gland that is below a location that divides the height of
the confluence portions of the left and right hepatic ducts and
the bile duct in the upper margin of the pancreas into two
equal parts and is along the proper hepatic artery (as stated in
No. 12p2 of the regulations for bile duct carcinoma)
13 Back of the
pancreatic
head
Lymph gland adjacent to the head of the duodenal papilla at
the back of the pancreatic head (No. 12b in the surroundings of
the hepatoduodenal ligament)
14v Along the Lymph gland that is in the front of the superior mesenteric

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61
superior
mesenteric
vein
vein, with the inferior margin of the pancreas on the upper
side, the right gastroepiploic vein and confluence portion of
the superior pancreaticoduodenal vein to the right, the left
margin of the mesenteric vein to the left and the branch of the
middle colic vein in the lower margin
14a Along the
superior
mesenteric
artery
Lymph gland along the superior mesenteric artery
15 Surroundings
of the colon
middle artery
Lymph gland that is in the surroundings of the colon middle
artery
16a1 Surroundings
of the
abdominal
aorta a1
Lymph gland that is in the surroundings of the aorta gap (4 to
5 cm wide in the surroundings of the medial crus of the
diaphragm)
16a2 Surroundings
of the
abdominal
aorta a2
Lymph gland that is in the surroundings of the aorta from the
upper margin of the abdominal artery root to the lower margin
of the left renal vein
16b1 Surroundings
of the
Lymph gland that is in the surroundings of the aorta from the
lower margin of the left renal vein to the upper margin of the

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62
abdominal
aorta b1
inferior mesenteric artery root
16b2 Surroundings
of the
abdominal
aorta b2
Lymph gland that is in the surroundings of the aorta from the
upper margin of the inferior mesenteric artery root to the
branch of aorta
17 Front of the
pancreatic
head
Lymph gland that is in the front of the pancreatic head, next to
the pancreas and under the pancreatic capsule
18 Below the
pancreas
Lymph gland that is in the lower margin of the pancreas
19 Below the
diaphragm
Lymph gland that is in the cavity of the diaphragm and along
the lower side of the diaphragmatic artery
20 Hiatal part of
the gullet
Lymph gland that connects the hiatal part of diaphragm to the
gullet
110 Beside the
lower gullet
Lymph gland that departs from the diaphragm and is next to
the lower gullet
111 Above the
diaphragm
Lymph gland that is in the cavity of the diaphragm and departs
from the gullet (No. 20 that connects to the diaphragm and
gullet)
112 Posterior
mediastinum
Lymph gland of the posterior mediastinum departed from the
gullet and its hiatal portion

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Fig. 4. Lymph node grouping
(2) Distant metastasis

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64
M0: No distant metastasis outside of the regional lymph nodes
M1: Distant metastasis outside of the regional lymph nodes
MX: Presence of distant metastasis is unclear
Record the specific sites under the M1 condition: peritoneum (PER), liver (HEP),
lymph node (LYM), skin (SKI), lung (PUL), bone marrow (MAR), bone (OSS), pleura
(PLE), brain (BRA) and meninges (MEN), intraperitoneal exfoliated cells (CY), and
others (OTH). Note: A positive examination result for intraperitoneal exfoliated cells is
recorded as M1.
9.8.3.2.4 Tumor Staging
N0 N1 N2 N3 M1
T1a,T1b IA IB IIA IIB
T2 IB IIA IIB IIIA
T3 IIA IIB IIIA IIIB
T4a IIB IIIA IIIB IIIC
T4b IIIB IIIB IIIC IIIC
Any T/N Ⅳ
9.8.3.3 Pathologic Types and Classifications
9.8.3.3.1 Type
Papillary adenocarcinoma
Tubular adenocarcinoma
Mucinous adenocarcinoma

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Signet ring cell carcinoma
Poorly differentiated carcinoma
9.8.3.3.2 Grading
GX classification is not possible to assess
G1 well-differentiated
G2 moderately differentiated
G3 poorly differentiated
G4 undifferentiated
9.8.3.4 Evaluation of Radical Level (Degree)
9.8.3.4.1 Recording the Presence or Absence of Cancer Invasion on the Resection
Stump
(1) Proximal incisional margin (PM: proximal margin)
PM (-): No cancer invasion found on the proximal incisional margin
PM (+): Cancer invasion found on the proximal incisional margin
PM X: Unknown cancer invasion on the proximal incisional margin
(2) Distal incisional margin (DM: distal margin)
DM (-): No cancer invasion found on the distal incisional margin
DM (+): Cancer invasion found on the distal incisional margin
DM X: Unknown cancer invasion on the distal incisional margin
9.8.3.4.2 Radical Records
Postoperative residual tumor, denoted with R (residual tumor): R0: curative resection;
R1, R2: non-curative resection.

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RX: cannot be evaluated
R0: no residual cancer
R1: microscopic residual cancer (positive margins, peritoneal lavage cytology
positive)
R2: macroscopic residual cancer
10 Statistical Analysis
10.1 Definition of the Population Set for Statistical Analysis
(1) Intent-to-treat Population (ITTP): Subjects that expressed intention to participate in
the study and signed an informed consent form.
(2) Modified Intent-to-treat Population (MITTP, modified intent-to-treat population):
Subjects that underwent randomization and laparoscopic surgical treatment or
conventional laparotomy, with data records from at least one valid efficacy evaluation
after intervention.
(3) Per-protocol Population (PPP): Subjects complying with the study protocol, with
good compliance and a completed CRF, allowing statistical analysis of the efficacy. The
main analytical results are consistent with those of the MITT analysis.
(4) Safety Analysis Population (SAP): All subjects that underwent randomization and
laparoscopic surgical treatment or conventional laparotomy, with safety evaluation data
records after intervention constituting a safety analysis population of this study,
allowing the statistical description and analysis of safety indicators and the incidence of
adverse reactions.
10.2 Statistical Analysis Plan

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Statistical software: We will use Epidata3.0 to establish a database and to input
data,and we will use SPSS 18.0 software to perform statistical analyses.
Basic principle: A significance test method is used. All statistical tests used cases
with post-intervention safety evaluation data, which constitute the safety analysis
population of this study, and analyze the safety indicators and the incidence of adverse
reactions. A p-value <0.05 is considered statistically significant. The confidence
interval of the parameters is estimated with a 95% confidence interval.
Shedding analysis: total shedding rate and analysis of shedding rate due to adverse
events.
Statistical analysis of Population Division: Analyses of baseline data and validity
analyses will be conducted with a modified intent-to-treat (MITT) analysis. The main
efficacy indicators are the incidence of adverse reactions and use of SAP as the
denominator.
Method for the Determination of Outliers: Any observed value that is lower or
higher than the lowest (P25) or highest (P75) interquartile range will be considered an
outlier. In the process of analysis, a sensitivity analysis of the outlier data will be
performed, and the effects of retention and the elimination of outliers will be analyzed;
in the case of no contradictions, the data shall be retained; in the case of any
contradictions, a decision shall be made depending on individual cases.
Descriptive Statistics: The measurement variables are the mean, standard deviation
and confidence interval, and if necessary, the minimum, maximum, P25, median and
P75; the paired measurement variables also consist of the mean and standard deviation

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of the difference; when using a non-parametric method, the median and average rank
should be shown. Counting variables are the frequency distribution and the
corresponding percentage. Ranked variables are the frequency distribution and the
corresponding percentage, as well as the median and average rank. Qualitative variables
are the positive rate, the number of positives, and the denominator cases. Survival time
data are the number of events and censored numbers, the median survival time, and the
survival rate.
Subgroup analysis: Prognostic factors are analyzed according to the specific
circumstances of the data.
Missing value processing: this study does not fill in missing values.
Effectiveness analysis: Survival data (time and rate) will be analyzed using a log
rank test. Multi-variable and central effect analysis will be conducted using Cox's
proportional hazards model. Quantitative variables are analyzed using Student's t-test or
another t-test (when the variance is not uniform), and categorical variables are analyzed
with the χ2 test. Ranked variables are analyzed with the Wilcoxon rank sum test.
Safety analysis: The incidence of adverse reactions, incidence of adverse events,
and a list of adverse events occurring in this study are collected; describing either
laboratory test results before and after the study to identify normal/abnormal changes or
the relationships between abnormal changes and drugs in the study, and listing the
"normal/abnormal" changes that occurred in this study; the results of laboratory tests
before and after the study of normal/abnormal changes and identification of the
relationship between the drug and these results when abnormal changes occurred. More

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detailed statistical analysis descriptions can be found in the statistical analysis plan.
11 Data Management
11.1 Case Report Form (CRF)
11.1.1 CRF Types and Submission Deadline
CRFs used in this study and their submission deadlines are as follows:
(1) Case Screening: 7 days prior to surgery (time frame of three days)
(2) Enrolling: submitted to the data center one day prior to surgery
(3) Surgery: within 1 day after surgery
(4) Postoperative discharge: within three days after the first discharge
(5) Follow-up records: 7 days after each specified follow-up time point
11.1.2 CRF Transmittal Methods
In this study, the paper CRF form are used for information and data transmittal.
11.1.3 CRFAmendment
After the start of the study, if the CRF is found to lack items that are deemed
pertinent, under the premises of ensuring that amendment of the CRF does not cause
medical and economic burden and increased risks to the selected patients, the CRF can
be modified after adoption by the Research Committee via discussion at a meeting. If
amendment of the CRF requires no changes to the study protocol, the latter will not be
modified.
11.2 Monitoring and Supervision
To assess whether study implementation follows the protocol and data are being
collected properly, monitoring should be conducted every two months during the

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follow-up period. Surveillance is completed by visiting the hospital and comparison
with the original data through hospital visits.
11.2.1 Monitoring Items
Data Collection Completion Status:
Eligibility: No eligible patients/potentially ineligible patients
Different end of treatment, the reasons for suspension/end of the study protocol
Background factors, pretreatment report factors, post-treatment report factors when
selected for registration
Severe adverse events
Adverse events/adverse reactions
Proportion of conversion to laparotomy
Protocol deviation
Disease-free survival/overall survival
Progress and safety of the study, other issues
11.2.2 Acceptable Range of Adverse Events
Treatment-related death and life-threatening complications caused by surgeries
occur relatively rarely and are partly dependent on the qualifications of the participating
research hospitals and their staff; a rate of over 3% is considered unacceptable.
12 Relevant Provisions on Adverse Events
12.1 Surgery-related Adverse Events
See the adverse events mentioned for surgical complications in Definition of the
study endpoint.

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12.2 Adverse Events Caused byWorsening Primary Diseases
Adverse events related to various forms of deterioration in primary diseases should
be recorded according to the Short Name of CTCAEv3.0, including:
(1) Adverse events caused by deterioration of the primary lesions and peritoneal
disseminated lesions: Gastrointestinal adverse events: loss of appetite, constipation,
dehydration, abdominal fullness, heartburn, nausea, gastrointestinal occlusion [stomach,
duodenum, ileum, colon, small intestine - cannot be broken down], gastrointestinal
perforation [stomach, duodenum, jejunum, ileum, colon], digestive tract stenosis
[stomach, duodenum, jejunum, ileum, colon], vomiting, hyponatremia, gastrointestinal
bleeding [stomach, duodenum, jejunum, ileum, colon]
(2) Adverse events caused by the deterioration of liver metastases: Abnormal
metabolism/laboratory test values: AST, ALT, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase
(3) Adverse events caused by the deterioration of lung metastases: Lung/upper
respiratory tract: atelectasis, dyspnea, hypoxemia, airway occlusion [bronchial]
(4) Adverse events caused by the deterioration of other focus metastases: Pain: pain
[metastasis sites], hypercalcemia
(5) Adverse events caused by the deterioration of systemic status:
Systemic status: fatigue, weight loss, cachexia quality
Blood/bone marrow: hemoglobin, platelet
Cardiovascular system: hypotension
Lymphatic system: edema: head and neck, limbs, trunk/genitalia, viscera
Metabolic/clinical laboratory values: low albumin, AST, ALT, acidosis, creatinine,

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hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, hypernatremia, hyponatremia, hyperkalemia,
hypokalemia, other electrolyte disturbances
Lung/upper respiratory tract: pleural effusion (non-malignant), dyspnea,
hypoxemia, pulmonary infections
Renal/genitourinary system: cystitis, renal failure, oliguria/anuria
12.3 Evaluation of Adverse Events
Evaluation of adverse events/adverse reactions is based on the [Accordion Severity
Grading System] and [CTCAE v3.0]; for more comprehensive detail, refer to sources
for the latter.
Adverse events will be graded 0 ~ 4 as per the definition. For treatment-related
death, fatal adverse events are classified as Grade 5 in the original CTCAE.
Toxicity items specified in the [surgery-related adverse events], grade and the
discovery date of grade should be recorded in the treatment process report. For other
toxicity items observed, observed Grade 3 toxicity items are only recorded in the
freedom registration column of the treatment process report, as well as the grade and
the discovery date of grade. The grade recorded in the treatment process report must be
recorded in the case report form.
CTCAE v3.0, the so-called "Adverse Events" are“all observed, unexpected bad
signs, symptoms and diseases (abnormal value of clinical examination are also included)
in treatment or disposal, regardless of a causal relationship with treatment or handling,
including determining whether there is a causal relationship or not".
Therefore, even if events are "obviously caused by primary disease (cancer)”or

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caused by supportive therapy or combination therapy rather than the study regimen
treatment (protocol treatment), they are "adverse events".
For adverse event data collection strategy, the following principles should be
complied with in this study:
1) Adverse events occurring within 30 days of the last treatment day of the study
regimen treatment (protocol treatment), regardless of the presence or absence of a
causal relationship, should be completely collected. (When adverse events are
reported, the causality and classification of adverse events are separately
discussed)
2) For adverse events within 31 days of the last treatment day of the study regimen
treatment (protocol treatment), only those determined (adverse reactions, adverse
drug reactions) to have a causal relationship (any definite, probable, possible) with
the protocol treatment will be collected.
12.4 Reporting of Adverse Events
When “severe adverse events” or “unexpected adverse events” occur, the Research
Responsible Person should report them to the Research Committee (Chang-Ming
Huang).
Based on the relevant laws and regulations, adverse events should be reported to the
province (city) health department at the location of the research center. Severe adverse
events based on clinical research-related ethical guidelines should be reported to the
person in overall charge of the medical institution. The appropriate reporting
procedures should be completed in accordance with the relevant provisions of all

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medical institutions at the same time. The person in charge of research should hold
accountability and responsibility for the emergency treatment of patients with any
degree of adverse events to ensure patient safety.
12.4.1 Adverse Events with Reporting Obligations
12.4.1.1 Adverse Events with Emergency Reporting Obligations
Any of the following adverse events should be reported on an emergent basis:
All patients who die during the course of treatment or within 30 days of the last
treatment day regardless of the presence or absence of a causal relationship with the
study regimen treatment. Additionally, cases of discontinuation of treatment, even if
within 30 days of the last treatment day, are also emergent reporting objects. ("30 days"
refers to day 0, the final treatment day, 30 days starting from the next day)
Those patients with unexpected grade 4 non-hematologic toxicity (CTCAE v3.0
adverse events other than the blood/bone marrow group), having a causality of
treatment (any of definite, probable, possible) who are emergent reporting objects.
12.4.1.2 Adverse Events with Regular Reporting Obligations
The following adverse events are regular reporting objects:
(1) After 31 days from the last treatment day, deaths for which a causal relationship
with treatment cannot be denied, including suspected treatment-related death; death due
to obvious primary disease is included.
(2) Expected grade 4 non-hematologic toxicity (CTCAE v3.0 adverse events other than
the blood/bone marrow group).
(3) Unexpected grade 3 adverse events: grade 3 adverse events are not recorded in 12.1

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expected adverse events.
(4) Other significant medical events: adverse events that the study group deems
important and potentially permanent, with a significant impact on offspring (MDS
myelodysplastic syndrome, except for secondary cancer)
Adverse events among those listed above (2)-(4), determined to have a causal
relationship (any of definite, probable, or possible) with the study regimen, are regular
reporting objects.
12.4.2 Reporting Procedure
12.4.2.1 Emergency Reporting
In the case of any adverse event or emergency study reporting objects, the doctor
in charge will quickly report the event or object to the Research Responsible Person of
the participating research hospitals. When the Research Responsible Person of the
hospital cannot be contacted, the coordinator or the doctor in charge of the hospital
must assume responsibility on behalf of the Research Responsible Person of the
hospital.
First Reporting: Within 72 hours after the occurrence of the adverse event, the
Research Responsible Person should complete the “AE/AR/ADR first emergency
report” and send it to the Research Committee.
Second Reporting: The Research Responsible Person completes the “AE/AR/ADR
Report” and a more detailed case information report (A4 format) and then send them to
the Research Committee within 15 days after the occurrence of the adverse event. If
there is an autopsy examination, the autopsy results report should be submitted to the

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Research Committee.
12.4.2.2 General Reports
The Research Responsible Person completes the "AE/AR/ADR report" and then
send it to the Research Committee within 15 days after the occurrence of the adverse
event.
12.5 Responsibilities and Obligations of the Research Responsible
Person/Research Committee
12.5.1 Judgment of Study Discontinuation and Necessity for Sending an
Emergency Notice to the Hospital
After receipt of the report from the Research Responsible Person, the Research
Committee replies to the Research Responsible Person for confirmation and negotiation
and then jointly determines the urgency and importance of reporting events; if
necessary, the Committee can temporarily stop the study and to take emergency
notification countermeasures.
12.6 Review of the Efficacy and Safety Evaluation Committee
The Efficacy and Safety Evaluation Committee reviews and discusses the report in
accordance with the procedures recorded in the Clinical Safety Information
Management Guideline and makes recommendations in writing for the Research
Responsible Person, including whether to continue to include study objects or to
modify the study protocol.
13 Ethical Considerations
13.1 Responsibilities of Investigators

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The investigators will ensure the implementation of this study in accordance with the
study protocol and in compliance with the Declaration of Helsinki, as well as domestic
and international ethical guiding principles and applicable regulatory requirements. It is
specially noted that the investigators must ensure that only subjects providing informed
consent can be enrolled in this study.
13.2 Information and Informed Consent of Subjects
An unconditional prerequisite for subjects to participate in this study is his/her
written informed consent. The written informed consent of subjects participating in this
study must be given before study-related activities are conducted.
Therefore, before obtaining informed consent, the investigators must provide
sufficient information to the subjects. To obtain informed consent, the investigators will
provide the information page to subjects, and the information required to comply with
the applicable regulatory requirements. While providing written information, the
investigators will orally inform the subjects of all relevant circumstances of this study.
In this process, the information must be fully and easily understood by
non-professionals so that they can sign the informed consent form according to their
own will on the basis of their full understanding of the study.
The informed consent form must be signed and dated personally by the subjects
and investigators. All subjects will be asked to sign the informed consent form to prove
that they agree to participate in the study. The signed informed consent form should be
kept at the research center where the investigator is located and must be properly and
safely kept for future review at any time during audit and inspection throughout the

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inspection period. Before participating in the study, subjects should be provided a copy
of signed and dated informed consent form.
At any time, if important new information becomes available that may be related
to the consent of the subjects, the investigators will revise the information pages and
any other written information, which must be submitted to the IEC/IRB for review and
approval. The approved revised information will be provided to each subject
participating in the study. The researchers will explain the changes made to the previous
version of the ICF to the subjects.
13.3 Identity and Privacy of Subjects
After obtaining an informed consent form, each selected subject is assigned a
subject number (allocation number). This number will represent the identity of the
subject during the entire study and for the clinical research database of the study. The
collected data for subjects in the study will be stored in the ID.
Throughout the entire study, several measures will be taken to minimize any
breaches of personal information, including: 1) only the investigators will be able to
link the research data of the subjects to themselves through the identification table kept
at the research center after authorization; 2) during onsite auditing of raw data by the
supervisors of this study, as well as relevant inspection and inspection visits by
supervising departments, the personnel engaging in the above activities may view the
original medical information of the subjects, which will be kept strictly confidential.
Collection, transmission, handling and storage of data on study subjects will
comply with data protection and privacy regulations. This information will be provided

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to the study subjects when their informed consent is being obtained for treatment
procedures in accordance with national regulations.
13.4 Independent Ethics Committee or Institutional Review Board
Before beginning the study, the research center will be responsible for submitting
the study protocol and relevant documents (informed consent form, subject information
page, CRF, and other documents that may be required) to the Independent Ethics
Committee (IEC)/Institutional Review Board (IRB) to obtain their favorable
opinion/approval. The favorable opinions/approval documents of the IEC/IRB will be
archived in the research center folders of the investigator.
Before beginning the study, the investigator must obtain written proof of favorable
opinions/approval by the IEC/IRB and should provide written proof of the date of the
favorable opinions/approval meeting, written proof of the members presenting at the
meeting and voting members, written proof of recording the reviewed study, protocol
version and Informed Consent Form version, and if possible, a copy of the minutes.
In the case of major revisions to this study, amendments to the study protocol will
be submitted to the IEC/IRB prior to performing the study. In the course of the study,
relevant safety information will be submitted to the IEC/IRB in accordance with
national regulations and requirements.
13.5 Regulatory Authority
The study protocol and any relevant documents (for example, the study protocol,
the subject's informed consent form) will be submitted according to the Ethical Review
Approach of Biomedical Research Involving Human Beings (Trial) (2007) and the

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applicable regulatory requirements of our country, or the ethical review guidance
counseling organization of the provincial health administrative department will be
notified.
14 Organizations and Responsibilities of Study
14.1 Research Committee
Responsible for developing the study protocol, auditing eligibility for inclusion and
guiding the interpretation of informed consent; also responsible for the collection
of adverse event reports, guiding the clinical diagnosis and treatment of such events
and the emergency intervention of serious adverse events.
Person in Charge of the Research Committee: Chang-Ming Huang (Gastric Surgery,
Union Hospital, Fujian Medical University)
Address: Department of Gastric Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union
Hospital, No. 29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China. Postcode:
350001, China; 0591-83357896-8011; Fax: 0591-83363366; Mobile: 13805069676;
E-mail: [email protected]
Chief Statistical Expert of the Research Committee: Zhi-Jian Hu (Department of
Preventive Medicine Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical
University)
Secretary: Mi Lin
Address: Department of Gastric Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union
Hospital, Fuzhou, China; Postcode: 350001
Tel: 0591-83357896-8011, Mobile: 13459152658 (Mi Lin)

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E-mail: [email protected]
14.2 Efficacy and Safety Evaluation Committee
Responsible for the supervision/monitoring of treatment safety and efficacy of this
study.
The principal of the Efficacy and Safety Evaluation Committee: Chang-Ming
Huang (Department of Gastric Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital)
14.3 Independent Ethics Committee/Institutional Review Board (IEC/IRB)
Responsible for evaluating this study to determine if risks to which subjects are
exposed have been duly minimized and whether these risks are reasonable compared to
expected benefits.
The Independent Ethics Committee/Institutional Review Board (IEC/IRB) is
responsible for the ethics review.
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16 Annex

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16.1 Informed Consent Form