Groin Dissection and Regional Lymphadenectomy

Groin dissection with regional lymphadenectomy is indicated as a diagnostic or therapeutic procedure in patients who have a primary malignant neoplasm that has known or suspected lymphatic drainage to the superficial or deep inguinal lymph nodes. These pathologic entities can include anal, vaginal, urethral, vulvar, uterine, penile, ovarian, rectal, and cutaneous cancers. The most common of these neoplasms plastic surgeons must manage is melanoma. The recommended method for lymph node analysis continues to evolve. All patients should undergo basic clinical evaluation for the presence of palpable nodes. This chapter gives an updated practical guide to patient selection, preparation, operative technique, and postoperative care for groin dissection and regional lymphadenectomy.