Aortic lymphadenectomy in cervical cancer: anatomy, classification and technique

Gynecol Oncol. 2007 Oct;107(1 Suppl 1):S30-2. doi: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2007.07.029. Epub 2007 Aug 28.

Abstract

Lymphatics are the main pathway of dissemination for gynaecologic malignancies and in particular those with preferential regional spread, so the evaluation of lymph node status has an important role in diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of patients with gynaecologic cancer. Hence, gynecologic oncologist must be familiar with lymphatic anatomy and the ability to perform a systematic retroperitoneal pelvic and aortic lymph node dissection is an important skill in their surgical armamentarium. This review will focus on the performance of systematic aortic lymphadenectomy in cervical cancer.

MeSH terms

  • Aorta / anatomy & histology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lymph Node Excision / methods*
  • Lymph Nodes / anatomy & histology
  • Lymph Nodes / pathology
  • Lymph Nodes / surgery*
  • Lymphatic Metastasis
  • Retroperitoneal Space / anatomy & histology
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / pathology
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / surgery*