Sentinel lymph node biopsy for melanoma: comparison of lymphocele rates by surgical technique.

摘要: Lymphocele is a common wound complication of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB). The surgical technique may play key role in lymphocele formation. This study compared rates postoperative formation by different techniques (Harmonic Scalpel [HS], LigaSure [LS], and traditional electrocautery with clips) after SLNB the groin or axilla for staging clinically node-negative cutaneous melanoma. Patients were selected convenience sample from single-institution, single-surgeon, prospectively collected melanoma database over 27-month period. One hundred fifty consecutive patients underwent SLNB, 70 clips, 37 HS, 43 LS. median number nodes removed was two did not vary significantly between groups. Twenty-three lymphoceles occurred an overall rate 15 per cent; 9.9 26.5 cent groin, respectively. Sixteen (70%) aspirated size symptoms; (P = 0.03) more likely to require aspiration. clip, LS groups 20.0, 18.9, 4.7 cent, differences other statistically significant. Use lead lower axillary clips.