para-aortic lymphadenectomy
Pronunciation: PAIR-ah ay-OR-tik lim-fad-eh-NEK-toh-mee
Surgical removal of lymph nodes along the para-aortic region, performed as part of staging or therapeutic procedures in gynecologic cancers.
Full Definition
Para-aortic lymphadenectomy is a surgical procedure involving the systematic removal of lymph nodes located alongside the aorta, typically extending from the renal vessels to the bifurcation of the common iliac arteries. In gynecologic oncology, this procedure is performed both for staging purposes to determine the extent of disease spread and as a therapeutic intervention to remove potentially cancerous lymph nodes. The procedure carries risks including vascular injury, lymphocele formation, and lymphedema. Para-aortic lymph node involvement is an important prognostic factor in ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancers, influencing treatment planning and patient outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as 'para-aortic LND' in clinical documentation. Should not be confused with pelvic lymphadenectomy, which targets a different anatomical region.
In Context
- "The surgical report indicated that para-aortic lymphadenectomy was performed up to the level of the renal vessels." — surgical operative note
- "Para-aortic lymphadenectomy revealed three positive nodes out of fifteen removed." — pathology report