Lymph Node Dissection – Why It Matters in Cancer Surgery
When it comes to cancer treatment, removing the tumor is just one part of the process. Understanding how far the cancer has spread is equally important in planning the most effective treatment. That’s where lymph node dissection plays a vital role.
In many cancer surgeries, especially those involving the breast, gastrointestinal tract, lungs, head and neck, or genitourinary system, examining the lymph nodes provides critical information that guides treatment decisions and helps predict outcomes.
What Are Lymph Nodes?
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of the lymphatic system, which plays a key role in your immune defense. They act as filters, trapping viruses, bacteria, and even cancer cells.
When cancer spreads, it often travels first to the nearby lymph nodes before moving to other organs. This is why checking lymph nodes is essential in cancer surgery.
What Is Lymph Node Dissection?
Lymph node dissection (also known as lymphadenectomy) is a surgical procedure where lymph nodes near a tumor are removed and examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells.
This can be done as:
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy – removal of the first few nodes where cancer is likely to spread.
- Regional lymph node dissection – removal of multiple lymph nodes in the area of the cancer.
Why Is It Done?
- To Determine the Stage of Cancer
The presence or absence of cancer in lymph nodes helps determine the stage of the disease. This information is critical for developing a treatment plan. - To Guide Further Treatment
If cancer is found in the lymph nodes, additional treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy may be needed. - To Reduce the Risk of Recurrence
In some cases, removing affected lymph nodes can help prevent cancer from spreading or recurring in the future.
Types of Cancers Where Lymph Node Dissection Is Crucial
- Breast cancer
- Melanoma
- Colorectal cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Lung cancer
- Head and neck cancers
- Gynecologic cancers (e.g., cervical, endometrial, ovarian)
What Are the Risks?
Like any surgical procedure, lymph node dissection has some risks, including:
- Swelling (lymphedema)
- Numbness or nerve injury
- Infection
- Fluid collection (seroma)
However, modern surgical techniques like robotic-assisted surgery significantly reduce these risks by offering enhanced precision and less trauma to surrounding tissues.
How Robotic Surgery Enhances Lymph Node Dissection
Robotic cancer surgery provides:
- High-definition 3D visualization
- Precise dissection of lymph nodes
- Better access to difficult-to-reach areas
- Less bleeding and quicker recovery
This makes robotic-assisted lymph node dissection particularly beneficial in complex cancer surgeries.
Expertise at Continental Hospitals, Hyderabad
At Continental Hospitals, Hyderabad, Dr. Harish N L, a Consultant Robotic Surgical Oncologist, specializes in performing advanced cancer surgeries including lymph node dissections using state-of-the-art robotic systems. His expertise ensures that patients receive accurate staging, thorough treatment, and compassionate care throughout their cancer journey.
Lymph node dissection is more than just a surgical step; it’s a critical component of cancer diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. When done with precision and expertise, it plays a major role in improving survival and long-term outcomes for cancer patients.