intraoperative frozen section
Rapid pathologic examination of tissue samples during surgery to guide immediate surgical decision-making in gynecologic cancer procedures.
Full Definition
Intraoperative frozen section is a rapid pathologic evaluation technique where tissue samples are quickly frozen, sectioned, stained, and examined microscopically during an ongoing surgical procedure. This allows the surgeon to receive immediate preliminary pathologic information to guide surgical decision-making in real time. In gynecologic oncology, frozen section is commonly used to assess margins during conservative procedures, determine the extent of disease spread, evaluate suspicious areas for malignancy, and guide the need for additional staging procedures. While faster than permanent section analysis, frozen section has limitations in diagnostic accuracy and should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and definitive pathology results.
Usage
Usage note: Always note that frozen section findings are preliminary and subject to confirmation by permanent section.
In Context
- "Intraoperative frozen section of the parametrial margin was negative, allowing for completion of the fertility-sparing procedure." — Operative report
- "The suspicious pelvic mass was sent for intraoperative frozen section, which confirmed adenocarcinoma and guided the staging procedure." — Surgical consultation