Intermediate
Technical
IVT
washings
Fluid samples collected from the peritoneal cavity during surgery to detect malignant cells.
Full Definition
Sterile saline solution instilled into the peritoneal cavity and then aspirated to collect any free-floating cells for cytological examination. Peritoneal washings are an important component of surgical staging for gynecologic cancers, particularly ovarian and endometrial malignancies. Positive washings indicate the presence of malignant cells in the peritoneal cavity and can upstage certain cancers, affecting prognosis and treatment decisions. The procedure is typically performed at the beginning of surgery before manipulation of organs.
Usage
Usage note: When used alone, 'washings' typically refers to peritoneal washings in gynecologic oncology contexts.
In Context
- "Peritoneal washings were negative for malignant cells on cytological examination." — Pathology report
- "Washings were obtained from the pelvis and paracolic gutters before tumor manipulation." — Operative report
Also known as
peritoneal washings
cytologic washings
Don't confuse with
ascites
peritoneal fluid