intraoperative consultation
Real-time pathological assessment during surgery, typically using frozen sections. Critical for determining surgical margins and immediate treatment decisions.
Full Definition
Intraoperative consultation involves real-time pathological assessment of tissue samples during ongoing surgical procedures, enabling immediate diagnostic input to guide surgical decision-making. In neuropathology, this service is crucial for brain tumor operations, where rapid tissue diagnosis can determine the extent of resection, need for additional sampling, or modification of surgical approach. The consultation typically involves frozen section analysis, gross examination, and sometimes rapid immunohistochemical stains. Results must be communicated promptly and clearly to the surgical team, often within 15-20 minutes of tissue receipt. The preliminary diagnosis guides immediate surgical decisions, though final diagnosis awaits permanent section analysis.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify preliminary nature and need for permanent section confirmation.
In Context
- "Intraoperative consultation confirmed high-grade glioma, prompting maximal safe resection." — Surgical pathology report
- "The intraoperative consultation was deferred pending better tissue orientation and permanent sections." — Complex case documentation