Early computed tomography after gross total resection of neuroblastoma with image defined risk factors to objectively assess extent of resection

Neuroblastoma (NBL) is the most common extracranial solid malignancy of childhood, accounting for 8–10% of paediatric cancers. It predominantly affects infants, with 90% diagnosed before age five; about 70% present with advanced disease. Prognosis depends on biological and clinical factors, with overall 5-year survival near 70%. Surgical resection is central to treatment, but reliable postoperative assessment of gross total resection (GTR) remains difficult. Intraoperative and photographic evaluations are unreliable, and although CT or MRI is standard, there is no consensus on timing or modality.