Resection Margin Assessment
Systematic evaluation of the distance between tumor and surgical cutting edge to ensure adequate cancer clearance.
Full Definition
Resection margin assessment is the systematic pathological evaluation of the distance between tumor cells and the surgical cutting edge of resected specimens. This assessment is crucial for determining the adequacy of surgical excision and predicting local recurrence risk. Margins are typically classified as positive (tumor at ink), close (tumor within a specified distance), or negative (adequate clearance). Required margin distances vary by tumor type, location, and biological behavior. Intraoperative assessment may use frozen section analysis, while final assessment relies on permanent histopathology with specialized staining techniques and detailed sectioning protocols.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the measurement method and distance criteria used for margin classification.
In Context
- "Resection margin assessment revealed adequate clearance with the closest margin measuring 8mm from the tumor edge." — pathology report
- "Standardized resection margin assessment protocols ensure consistent evaluation across all breast cancer specimens." — pathology department policy