pelvic exenteration
Extensive surgical procedure involving removal of pelvic organs, typically performed for advanced or recurrent gynecologic malignancies.
Full Definition
Pelvic exenteration is a radical surgical procedure that involves the removal of multiple pelvic organs and is typically reserved for advanced, recurrent, or persistent gynecologic cancers when other treatment options have been exhausted. The procedure may be anterior (involving bladder and reproductive organs), posterior (involving rectum and reproductive organs), or total (involving all pelvic organs). Due to its extensive nature, pelvic exenteration carries significant morbidity and requires careful patient selection. The procedure aims to achieve complete tumor removal in cases where less radical surgery would be inadequate.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the type of exenteration (anterior, posterior, or total) when documenting these procedures.
In Context
- "Given the extent of recurrent disease, the multidisciplinary team recommended pelvic exenteration as the only curative option." — Treatment planning document
- "The patient underwent anterior pelvic exenteration with urinary diversion for persistent cervical cancer." — Operative report