surgical margin
The distance between the edge of removed tumor and the boundary of excised tissue.
Full Definition
Surgical margin refers to the rim of normal tissue surrounding a tumor that is removed during breast cancer surgery. Margins are classified as negative (clear), positive, or close based on the distance from tumor cells to the inked edge of the specimen. Negative margins indicate complete tumor removal and are essential for local control. The definition of adequate margin width has evolved, with current guidelines generally accepting any negative margin for invasive cancer, while ductal carcinoma in situ may require wider margins. Positive margins often necessitate re-excision to achieve local control.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify margin status (positive, negative, close) and distances when reporting.
In Context
- "Final pathology confirmed negative surgical margins with no ink on tumor." — pathology report
- "Close surgical margins prompted discussion of re-excision versus radiation boost." — multidisciplinary team meeting