SEER Coding Standards Result in Underestimation of Positive Surgical Margin Incidence at Radical Prostatectomy: Results of a Systematic Audit

Abstract

In this SEER registry 30% of radical prostatectomy cases in 2007 were coded inaccurately. SEER coding guidelines result in underestimating the positive surgical margin incidence. Clinicians and investigators should recognize the limitations of tumor registry data on positive surgical margins.