Extent of Groin Dissection for Melanoma

Abstract

Issues and controversies relevant to the extent of groin dissection that should be performed in patients with malignant melanoma are reviewed. Published reports of patients undergoing groin dissection are summarized, with a focus on the extent of nodal involvement and the extent of operation performed. A mathematical model to predict the impact of elective deep groin dissection on the survival of melanoma patients with clinically negative deep pelvic nodes is presented. A policy of selective deep groin dissection for patients with clinically positive deep pelvic nodes as well as for those with clinically occult but at high risk for histologically positive pelvic nodes is advocated.