mediastinal lymph node dissection
Systematic removal of lymph nodes from the mediastinum during thoracic cancer surgery for staging and treatment.
Full Definition
Mediastinal lymph node dissection involves the systematic identification and removal of lymph nodes from specific anatomical stations within the mediastinum during lung cancer surgery. This procedure is essential for accurate pathological staging and may provide therapeutic benefit by removing microscopic disease. The extent of dissection varies by tumor location and surgical approach, with complete mediastinal lymphadenectomy being the gold standard for non-small cell lung cancer. Proper nodal sampling affects both staging accuracy and long-term survival outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from lymph node sampling, which is less extensive; reference nodal stations by number when applicable.
In Context
- "Complete mediastinal lymph node dissection revealed metastatic disease in station 7 nodes." — Pathology report
- "The surgeon performed systematic mediastinal lymph node dissection according to IASLC guidelines." — Operative note