In vivo and in vitro neck dissection specimen labelling: a new method for precise orientation of specimens

Abstract

As the main anatomical and radiological landmarks are lacking in neck dissection specimens, orientation and labelling of the lymph node levels becomes very important for precise histopathological reporting. A few labelling techniques for neck dissection specimens have been described previously, which can aid the histopathologist in orienting the specimen. However, a combined method of specimen labelling in which the ND specimen is labelled during the operation and once it has been resected would improve specimen orientation. This article describes a technique of in vivo and in vitro labelling of neck dissection specimens that specifies the levels of the lymph nodes with proper anatomical landmarks. This technique eliminates the grey areas between levels II and III and between levels III and IV, which are difficult to identify precisely in neck dissection specimens. This technique is easily reproducible and represents a useful tool in attaining precise pathological reporting.