Lymph node dissection refers to a surgical procedure performed to remove and examine the lymph nodes in a particular area of the body. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures found throughout the body that play a crucial role in the immune system. They filter lymph fluid, which contains white blood cells, and help fight infections.
During a lymph node dissection, a surgeon makes an incision in the skin and carefully removes the lymph nodes in the affected area. This procedure is often performed as part of the treatment or diagnosis of cancer, as it provides valuable information about the spread of cancer cells.
Lymph node dissection can be classified into different types, depending on the location and extent of lymph nodes being removed. For instance, a sentinel lymph node dissection involves the removal and examination of the first few lymph nodes that receive drainage from a specific tumor. On the other hand, an axillary lymph node dissection involves removing multiple lymph nodes in the armpit region.
This procedure helps doctors determine whether cancer has spread beyond the primary tumor site and identify the stage and progression of the disease. By assessing the lymph nodes, healthcare professionals can recommend appropriate treatment options, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, to eliminate or control the spread of cancer.
Although lymph node dissection is effective in providing crucial information about cancer and aiding in treatment decisions, it can also carry potential risks, such as infection, bleeding, and lymphedema (swelling due to the removal of lymph nodes). Therefore, it is important for patients to discuss the benefits and risks of the procedure with their healthcare team.
