Implication of total tumor size on the prognosis of patients with clinical stage IA lung adenocarcinomas appearing as part-solid nodules: Does only the solid portion size matter?

• Current T descriptor was a powerful prognostic factor in stage IA adenocarcinomas appearing as part-solid nodules. • Total tumor size further stratified risk of recurrence of adenocarcinomas in cT1b. • Upstaging of tumors in cT1b with total tumor size > 3.0 cm may be more appropriate.