Groin Node Dissection Research Articles

Conservative Management of Vulvar Cancer-Where Should We Draw the Line?

Vulvar cancer is a rare disease, and cure rates were low until the mid-20th century. The introduction of an en bloc radical vulvectomy and bilateral groin and pelvic lymph node dissection saw them rise from 15-20% to 60-70%. However, this very radical surgery was associated with high physical and psychological morbidity. Wounds were usually left open to granulate, and the average post-operative hospital stay was about 90 days. Many attempts have been made to decrease morbidity without compromising survival. Modifications that have proven to be successful are as follows: (i) the elimination of routine pelvic node dissection, (ii) the use of separate incisions for groin dissection, (iii) the use of unilateral groin dissection for lateral, unifocal lesions, (iv) and radical local excision with 1 cm surgical margins for unifocal lesions. Sentinel node biopsy with ultrasonic groin surveillance for patients with node-negative disease has been the most recent modification and is advocated for patients whose primary cancer is <4 cm in diameter. Controversy currently exists around the need for 1 cm surgical margins around all primary lesions and on the appropriate ultrasonic surveillance for patients with negative sentinel nodes.

Multimodality treatment of a primary vulvar melanoma in a low resource setting: A case report

Primary vulvar melanoma is a rare but highly aggressive malignant neoplasm accounting for 1–2 % of all malignant melanoma and 5–10 % of all vulvar cancers in females. Here we report a case of 32 years old female diagnosed with primary vulvar melanoma during the evaluation of a two cm growth in the inner labia minora on the right side. She underwent wide local excision with excision of the distal one cm of the urethra and bilateral groin node dissection. The final histopathology was vulvar malignant melanoma with 1 out of 15 groin nodes involved but all resected margins were free of tumor. The final surgical stage was T4bN1aM0 (8th AJCC TNM) and IIIC (FIGO). She received adjuvant radiotherapy followed by 17 cycles of Pembrolizumab. To date, she is both clinically and radiologically disease free with a progression-free survival of 9 months.

Carcinoma vulva: Ten years experience in a teaching institution of North India.

Vulvar carcinoma is primarily a disease of post-menopausal women. Surgery is a primary treatment strategy. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are a part of multimodal therapy. Presently, there is a shift towards neoadjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy so as to decrease the surgical morbidities. To study the surgical outcome and prognostic factors in Ca vulva patients. A retrospective analysis of 19 vulvar cancer patients, surgically treated at a teaching institution of Punjab (2009-2019). Mean age of the patients was 60.95 years. Ulcerative swelling (89.5%) over labia majora (73.7%) was the main presenting symptom. Radical vulvectomy-bilateral IFLN dissection was performed in 74% patients, hemivulvectomy-unilateral IFLN dissection in 21% patients and wide local excision in one patient. Squamous cell carcinoma was detected in all, and one had verrucous carcinoma. Thirty-seven per cent patients had FIGO stage III disease, 31.5% - stage II and 31.5% - stage I. On HPE, 78.57% (11/14) patients had positive nodes and two had ECS. Only 5/9 (55.5%) cases could receive PORT. Seven patients defaulted follow-up. Two developed nodal metastasis, and seven women developed recurrence. One patient with regional recurrence faced demise during RT course. In 10/19 regular follow-up patients, four are alive and disease free, five patients are on palliative chemoradiation, and one is undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy for regional recurrence. Estimated 5-year overall survival is 83.33%. Tumour stage, nodal positivity and nodal ECS were poor prognostic factors. Radical surgery-extensive groin node dissection causes significant morbidity; hence, studies evaluating the role of neoadjuvant treatment are needed so as to modify current treatment practices. HPV vaccination as a preventive measure and a thorough and extensive evaluation of patients with suspicious signs in vulvar disease is needed.

Superficial versus deep inguinal nodal dissection for vulvar cancer staging

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to compare the rate of groin recurrence among women undergoing superficial or deep inguinal lymph node dissections in suspected early-stage vulvar carcinoma. Secondary objectives included comparison of overall survival and post-operative morbidity between the study groups. MethodsA retrospective cohort of 233 patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the vulva who underwent an inguinal lymph node dissection at two major academic institutions from 1999 to 2017 were analyzed. Demographic, surgical, recurrence, survival, and post-operative morbidity data were collected for 233 patients, resulting in a total of 400 groin node dissections analyzed. ResultsRates of overall primary recurrence of disease between superficial and deep inguinal LND (42.5 vs. 39.8%, p = 0.70) and rates of inguinal recurrence (3.4 vs. 8.3%, p = 0.16) were similar. Overall rates of postoperative morbidity were significantly higher in the cohort undergoing deep LND (70.3% vs 44.3%, p < 0.01). Rates of lymphedema (42.4 vs 15.9%, p < 0.01), readmission (26.3 vs 6.8%, p < 0.01), and infection (40.7 vs 14.8%, p < 0.01) were all significantly higher among patients undergoing deep LND. There was no significant difference noted in overall survival between the study groups when adjusting for stage and age (HR 1.08, p = 0.84). ConclusionSuperficial inguinal LND had no significant difference in rate of recurrence or overall survival when compared to deep inguinal LND in patients with vulvar SCC. Those who received a deep LND had a significant increase in overall morbidity, including lymphedema, readmission, and infection. For patients who cannot undergo or fail sentinel lymph node mapping, a superficial inguinal lymph node dissection may have similar outcomes in recurrence and overall survival with a reduction in overall morbidity as compared to a complete, or deep, lymph node dissection.

Trans-inguinal pelvic lymphadenectomy in vulvar cancer patients: TRIPLE pilot study

ObjectiveThe goal of this study was to assess the feasibility and safety of a retrograde extraperitoneal trans-inguinal novel approach to pelvic lymphadenectomy in vulvar cancer patients. The secondary objectives were...

Immediate inguinal lymphaticovenous anastomosis following lymphadenectomy in skin cancer of lower extremities

BackgroundSecondary lymphedema following inguinal lymph node dissection in lower extremities skin cancer reduce the patients’ quality of life. Immediate lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) at groin is a procedure intended to prevent secondary lymphedema. The data regarding the long-term efficacy and safety of this procedure was limited. Therefore, we evaluated the long-term outcomes of immediate LVA in patients with melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer of the lower extremities. MethodsThe retrospective data review of patients with melanoma or squamous cell carcinoma of the lower extremities underwent oncologic tumor resection with groin node dissection between December 2013 and December 2016 was performed. Seven patients underwent immediate LVA (intervention) at groin after node dissection and 22 acted as controls. The occurrence of lymphedema and oncologic outcomes were followed up to 7 years. ResultsFifteen patients (51.7%) developed postoperative lymphedema, which were three patients in the intervention group and twelve patients in the control group (p = 0.68). The intervention group had significant lower 2-year (57.1% versus 77.3%) and 5-year overall survival (14.3% versus 54.5%) (p = 0.035). The intervention group had reduced 2-year (28.6% versus 86.4%) and 5-year (28.6% versus 68.2%) Recurrence Free Survival (RFS) (p = 0.013). The intervention group also had reduced 2-year (0% versus 90%) and 5-year (0% versus 70%) Metastasis Free Survival (MFS) (p = 0.003). ConclusionImmediate inguinal LVA following groin node dissection in lower extremity skin cancer patients did not reduce the incidence of lymphedema. Unfortunately, it was associated with lower overall survival and an increase in tumor recurrence and metastasis.

Medial Inguino-Femoral Lymphadenectomy for Vulvar Cancer: An Approach to Decrease Lymphedema without Compromising Survival.

Simple SummaryThis prospective study has demonstrated that if the inguinal nodes medial to the lateral border of the femoral artery and the femoral nodes are negative in patients with vulvar cancer, the chances of having a positive node lateral to the artery are less than 1 in 10,000. About one-third of groin nodes are situated lateral to the femoral artery, so leaving these nodes in situ if the medial nodes are negative should significantly decrease the incidence and severity of lower limb lymphedema, without compromising survival.Background: Lower limb lymphedema is a long-term complication of inguino-femoral lymphadenectomy and is related to the number of lymph nodes removed. Our hypothesis was that lymph nodes lateral to the femoral artery could be left in situ if the medial nodes were negative, thereby decreasing this risk. Methods: We included patients with vulvar cancer of any histological type, even if the cancer extended medially to involve the urethra, anus, or vagina. We excluded patients whose tumor extended (i) laterally onto the thigh, (ii) posteriorly onto the buttocks, or (iii) anteriorly onto the mons pubis. After resection, the inguinal nodes were divided into a medial and a lateral group, based on the lateral border of the femoral artery. Results: Between December 2010 and July 2018, 76 patients underwent some form of groin node dissection, and data were obtained from 112 groins. Approximately one-third of nodes were located lateral to the femoral artery. Positive groin nodes were found in 29 patients (38.2%). All patients with positive nodes had positive nodes medial to the femoral artery. Five patients (6.6%) had positive lateral inguinal nodes. The probability of having a positive lateral node given a negative medial node was estimated to be 0.00002. Conclusion: Provided the medial nodes are negative, medial inguino-femoral lymphadenectomy may suffice and should reduce lower limb lymphedema without compromising survival.

Creation of a rat lymphedema model using extensive lymph node dissection and circumferential soft tissue resection: Is this a reliable model?

The medical demand for lymphedema treatment is huge since the disease mechanism remains unclear, and management are difficult. Our purpose was to develop a reliable lymphedema model mimicking the clinical scenario and allows a microsurgical approach. Male Lewis rats weighing 400 to 450 g were used to create lymphedema with groin and popliteal lymph node dissection and creation of 5 mm circumferential skin defect (n=6). A skin incision was made and closed primarily for control group (n=5). Evaluation included indocyanine green (ICG) lymphangiography 1 and 2months postoperatively, volume difference between bilateral hindlimbs measured using micro-CT, and the skin was harvested for histological evaluation 2months postoperatively. Larger volume differences present in the lymphedema group (17.50 ± 7.76 vs. 3.73 ± 2.66%, p < .05). ICG lymphangiography indicated dermal backflow only in the lymphedema group. Increased thickness of the epidermis was noted in lymphedema group (28.50 ± 12.61 μm vs. 15.10 ± 5.41 μm, p < .0001). More CD45+ (35.6 ± 26.68 vs. 2.8 ± 4.23 cells/high power field [HPF], p < .0001), CD3+ (38.39 ± 20.17 vs. 9.73 ± 8.62 cells/HPF, p < .0001), and CD4+ cell infiltration (11.7 ± 7.71 vs. 2.0 ± 2.67 cells/HPF, p < .0001) were observed in the lymphedema group. Collagen type I deposition was more in the lymphedema group (0.15 ± 0.06 vs. 0.07 ± 0.03, p < .0005). A rat lymphedema model was successfully established. The model can be applied in lymphedema related research.

Vessel-preserving en-bloc excision of groin recurrence of vulval carcinoma with tensor fasciae latae flap reconstruction in a previously irradiated field

Objectives: Groin node dissection for recurrent vulval cancer in a previously irradiated field presents many surgical challenges - risk of vascular involvement, ill-defined planes and poor tissue quality for closure and healing. Our case demonstrates the feasibility of surgical management and value of flap reconstruction in managing disease relapse in such patients. Methods: We present the surgical approach to recurrent squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) vulva in a patient who has undergone previous radical radiotherapy to the site of relapse. Download : Download high-res image (268KB) Download : Download full-size image Results: In 2019 - a 70 year old lady underwent radical vulvectomy and left gluteal fold flap reconstruction, followed by radical radiotherapy and concomitant cisplatin for stage IIIc SCC vulva. A total of 12 months later, the patient presented with a clinically palpable, fixed left groin swelling. Imaging confirmed an FDG-avid 2.6 x 4.2 centimetre (cm) partially necrotic left inguinal lymph node, engulfing the femoral vessels. The patient was counselled pre-operatively by both gynae-oncology and plastic surgery – offering surgical excision of this single site recurrence, anticipating the need for further flap reconstruction for wound closure. Additional challenges included body mass index (BMI) of over 40 kilograms/metre2 and chronic candida of the abdominal pannus. Joint examination under anaesthetic by gynae-oncology and plastic surgery confirmed no vulval recurrence and no palpable right groin nodes. Left thigh perforator vessels were identified and marked using doppler. An 8.6 x 3.1cm elliptical incision was made around the fixed underlying node; and systematic inguino-femoral lymph node dissection performed using both bipolar scissors and an advanced energy device. An en-bloc specimen measuring 6.6 x 3.1 x 6.1cm was obtained. The femoral artery and vein were identified; and long saphenous vein preserved. Wound closure was achieved by raising an 18 x 8cm tensor fasciae latae (TFL) islanded flap, rotating and anchoring into place. Postoperatively, the patient was managed jointly under gynae-oncology and plastic surgery. Intravenous antibiotics, anti-fungals and thromboprophylaxis were given. The patient was advised to avoid sitting for 2 weeks. Drain outputs were monitored; and drains removed day 14. A small area of wound dehiscence occurred along the inferior border of the groin flap – which was healing well by secondary intention at the time of 4 week post-operative review, without need for further management. Final histopathology confirmed excised metastatic SCC, with a plan for ongoing surveillance arranged. Conclusions: In patients having undergone previous radiotherapy - surgery remains the main therapeutic option for recurrence. Undertaking such surgery, however, in a previously irradiated field - with altered anatomy and compromised perfusion - significantly increases the risk of inadvertent vessel or nerve injury and wound breakdown. We have demonstrated an approach, however, in an obese patient that achieved disease clearance through meticulous dissection, achieving wound closure and healing by incorporating TFL flap reconstruction.

Prospective Clinicopathological Study of Penile Cancer Patients : A Single Institution Experience

Background: Carcinoma of the penis is an uncommon malignancy in Western countries but constitutes amajor health problem in many countries in Asia, Africa, and South America, where it may comprise up to10% of all malignancies.Materials and Method: 42 consecutive patients of carcinoma penis were treated from 2013 to 2015. Clinicaland pathological profies were recorded and studied prospectively.Results: 20/42 (48%) patients were of the age group 60 and above. majority of patients belonged to poorsocioeconomic status, 32/42 patients(76.1%). Glans of the penis was the most common site of presentationin 28/42patients(66.6%). The most common symptoms were pus discharge from the penile ulcer in 21patients(50%). 31/42 patients were chronic smoker or tobacco chewer. Inguinal lymph nodes were palpablein 24/42 (57%). The most common complication associated with Groin node dissection was lymphedema in19 patients (45.2%). 12/42 patients had inguinal lymph node metastasis in final histopathological examinationreport. 50 % patients had grade II primary tumor.Conclusion: Incidence of carcinoma penis peaks in the 6thdecade of life. Illiteracy, low socio-economicstatus and phimosis appear to be main predisposing factors for carcinoma of penis. Nodal metastasis wassignificantly associated with factors like T3 and high grade lesions (grade II & III). Complication rate relatedto groin node dissection is high, commonest being lymphedema.

Perioperative morbidity of Vulval cancer

Introduction: The present study is a retrospective analysis of vulval cancer patients who had been treated with surgery as primary mode. The cases studied were in tertiary care hospital south India of March 2008 to February 2013. Total number of patients was 11. Materials and Methods: The medical records of all patients studied retrospectively with reference to stage of the disease, surgery performed, prophylactic antibiotics, intra-operative and postoperative complications. Results: Among 11 patients 9 were postmenopausal. Ten patients histopathology showed stage 1b cancer for whom simple vulvectomy was performed, one patient had co-existing HGSIL( High Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion) and positive right inguinal nodes, requiring TAH+ BSO+ right groin dissection and posterior colporrhaphy was done in one patient with rectocele. One patient presented with stage 2 disease for which radical vulvectomy with bilateral groin lymph node dissection was carried out. Postoperative radiotherapy was given for 8 patients with tumor positive margins. Conclusion: Even though many modifications in surgical methods of vulval cancer still morbidity is high. Particularly surgical complication of wound infection. This delay will further add up for delay in starting adjuvant treatment. Hence there is a need of further modifications of surgical treatments like minimally invasive approach. A team of oncology surgeons, medical oncologists, radiotherapists is needed to manage this rare cancer. With multidisciplinary approach Surgery for early stage vulval cancer has acceptable morbidity. Keywords: Carcinoma vulva, Saphenous vein, Vulval cancer.

Treatment and Survival Outcomes of Surgery for Carcinoma Vulva

To study treatment and survival outcomes of carcinoma vulva. The electronic charts of 30 patients with carcinoma vulva operated between October 2010 and December 2015 were reviewed. Univariate cox-proportional hazard tests were done for potential risk factors. Survival analysis was done using Kaplan–Meier plots and the log rank test. The median age was 59 with a range of 27–82 years. Most common (90%) histological type was squamous cell carcinoma. Most (66.7%) patients had early stage disease, while stage III was seen in 23.3% and stage IV in 10%. Primary surgery was done in 27/30 (90%) patients while three with stage IV had surgery following neoadjuvant therapy. Complications included wound dehiscence in 6/30 (20%), lymphocysts in 11/30 (36.7%), urinary infections in 3/30 (10%) and one death within 30 days. There were 6 recurrences (20%) and 10 deaths (33.3%). Mean recurrence-free survival was 84.6 (95% CI 67.6–101.6) months. Mean overall survival time was 70 (95% CI 53.1–86.9) months. Radical wide local excision with groin node dissection is possible in most early cases. Flaps can reduce wound breakdown. A multidisciplinary approach can ensure long-term survival with good quality of life.

Histopathological risk scoring system as a tool for predicting lymph nodal metastasis in penile squamous cell carcinoma

Penile cancer is an aggressive neoplasm and nodal metastasis is a key factor in determining the outcome. While there is a paucity of tools predicting nodal metastasis, an elective groin node dissection (GND) may cause severe morbidity. We aimed to devise a histopathology-based risk stratification system to predict the risk of nodal metastasis in penile squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) patients. In this retrospective clinicopathological analysis, consecutive penile SCC patients who had undergone primary surgical treatment with GND from 2007 to 2012 were included. Histopathology slides were reviewed and a histopathological risk scoring system (ranging from 3 to 9) was devised by adding the values assigned to the following pathological variables: tumour grade (1-3); anatomical level of infiltration (1-3); and tumour infiltration pattern (1-3). Three risk groups were created based on histopathological risk scores. Final scores and risk groups were correlated with nodal metastasis, disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). We also validated the earlier described prognostic index score (PIS) on our set of patients and compared it to our proposed scoring system. A total of 162 cases of primary penile resections with unilateral or bilateral groin node dissection were identified during the study period. Sixty-two of 68 patients (91.17%) and 58 of 94 patients (61.7%) had nodal metastasis on upfront and follow-up nodal basin surgeries, respectively. Chances of nodal metastasis for each risk group were as follows: low risk (score 3 and 4) 14.3%; intermediate risk (score 5) 52.6%; and high risk (scores 6-9) 83.7%. Follow-up was available in 145 patients (89.5%). Median follow-up was 21 months (1-96 months). The histopathological scoring system (p=0.04) and risk groups (p=0.005) had a statistically significant correlation with DFS but not with OS. Logistic regression model demonstrated that this stratification system was a good predictor of nodal metastasis. Further, this scoring system had better predictive sensitivity for detecting true node-negative cases and marginally better accuracy in detecting nodal metastasis as compared to the PIS. Our study demonstrates that the histopathological risk stratification can predict nodal metastasis and aid in planning management of penile cancer patients with judicious implementation of the morbid procedure of GND.

Radical vulvectomy and inguinal lymphadenectomy using a single incision for the treatment of vulvar malignancy

Objective: To describe a novel procedure of radical vulvectomy and inguinal lymphadenectomy using a single incision (RVIL-SI) for the treatment of vulvar malignancy. Methods: In March, 2019, two cases affected with vulvar cancer (the first one is stage ⅢA squamous cell carcinoma and the second one is stage ⅠB with malignant melanoma) underwent this novel procedure, which was characterized by the combination of radical vulvectomy and bilateral inguinal lymphadenectomy without making additional incisions in groin areas. The boundaries of femoral triangle could be exposed perfectly using the initial incision of radical vulvectomy and the combined superficial and deep groin lymph node dissection were done subcutaneously from medial to lateral. Preoperative data and short term follow-up outcomes were collected. Results: The RVIL-SI was successfully conducted in two patients without any incisions of groin. The great saphenous veins were all spared. The operative time, average blood loss and median total regional lymph nodes of two cases were close. No major intraoperative complications occurred. Micrometastasis in one right superficial inguinal node was found in the first case with ipsilateral huge cancer lesion. No drain tube was left in inguinal areas intraoperatively. On postoperative day 3, the second case suffered mild lymphocele of right groin, which was resolved via repeated percutaneous needle puncture followed by elastic compression. Postoperative hospital stay of two cases were 10 and 11 days, respectively. With no skin complication at the time of writing this report. Conclusion: Our preliminary experience with the RVIL-SI has confirmed the reproducibility and minimal invasive therapeutic potential in the treatment for patients with vulvar cancer. But this novel procedure is in its infancy stage. Although short-term results are encouraging, a larger series with longer follow-up are required to fully evaluate the therapeutic efficacy.

Vulval Cancer: When should I Stop Resecting? Identifying the Factors that Predict Recurrence

Abstract Context: Vulval cancer surgery has become more conservative and it is important to understand whether resection margins alone influence recurrence rates or whether other prognostic factors should be considered when planning treatment. Aims: The aim of this study is to define factors that predict vulval cancer recurrence, enabling development of a recurrence prediction model. Settings and Design: This was a Aretrospective descriptive analysis of new vulval squamous cell carcinoma cases in a gynecological oncology center (January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2013). Subjects and Methods: Analysis of tumor characteristics and treatments. Patient outcomes were recorded, identifying recurrences, and subsequent interventions. Statistical Analysis Used: Univariable and multivariable logistic regression tools applied to determine recurrence risk factors. Results: Seventy patients underwent primary vulval surgery. Bilateral groin node dissection was performed in 26/70 (37.1%) cases and unilateral groin node dissection in 9/70 (12.9%) cases. 57/70 (82%) cases had a negative vulval resection margin, with 67% &lt;8-mm margin. 18/70 (26%) patients underwent adjuvant treatment. Overall recurrence rate of 21/70 (30%): 14/70 locally and 7/70 at the groin. Median survival was 84.2 months and median disease-free interval was 19.1 months. Factors that were statistically significant in predicting recurrence were positive groin histology, lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI), and disease stage. Conclusions: We reported a reduction in the size of tumor-free margins at primary excision. The recurrence rate of 30% is within the previously reported range, suggesting that factors aside from resection margin (LVSI, stage, and groin node involvement) are also important in predicting recurrence. These factors should be incorporated into a prediction model when planning adjuvant treatment.

Uptake of sentinel lymph node procedures in women with vulvar cancer over time in a population based study

ObjectivesTo evaluate trends in uptake of sentinel lymph node (SLN) procedures over time and associated factors in women with vulvar cancer. MethodsA retrospective population-based cohort study identified women with invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the vulva using health administrative data for the province of Ontario, Canada, between 2008 and 2016. Patients who underwent SLN procedures were compared to those who had groin node dissection (GND). Multivariable analysis was used to identify factors associated with SLN procedures. Results1385 patients with SCC of the vulva were identified; 1079 had a surgical procedure. Only those with groin node assessment were included in the study cohort (n = 732, 68%). SLN procedures were done in 52%. When comparing SLN versus GND, the rate of SLNs was significantly different by year of diagnosis (P < 0.001), associated comorbidity (P < 0.001) and institution (P < 0.0001). The rates of SLNs by institution with gynecologic oncologist were variable and ranged from 32% to 79% among 9 centers. There were no differences in age, income quintile, and urban/rural residence.The proportion of SLN procedures increased from 30.1% (CI 18.9–45.6) in 2008 to 65.2% (CI 36.5–107.6) in 2016. On multivariate analysis, factors significantly associated with SLN procedures were more recent year of diagnosis (OR 7.9, CI 2.7–23.5) associated comorbidities (OR 2.7, CI 1.5–5.0) and institution (Site 5, OR 19.6 [CI 3.6–108.3] and Site 6, [OR 6, CI 1.1–33.4]). ConclusionsThe proportion of SLN procedures in women with vulvar cancer has increased over time, but uptake is not uniform across institutions. Barriers to uptake should be explored.

Pathological process has a crucial role in sentinel node biopsy for vulvar cancer

ObjectivesTo report the interim findings of an audit of the outcomes of sentinel node (SN) biopsy performed as a replacement for groin node dissection in women with early stage vulvar cancer in routine clinical practice in Australia and New Zealand. MethodsA prospective multi-center study in 8 participating centers. Eligible patients had squamous cell carcinomas clinically restricted to the vulva <4 cm in diameter. SN procedures and pathological assessment were to be performed in accordance with the methods published by the GROINSS-V collaboration [1]. Results130 women with apparent early stage vulvar cancer were enrolled. Seventeen women subsequently did not meet the eligibility criteria and were excluded. SNs were identified in 111/113 of the remaining women. Twenty-two women had positive nodes. Sixteen of these women had at least 12 months follow up and 7 (44%) had recurrent disease. Eighty-nine women had only negative nodes. Seventy-four of these women had at least 12 months follow up and 6 (8%) had recurrent disease (including 2 [2.7%] with recurrence in the groin). On subsequent review of the two women with negative SNs who had groin recurrences, it was found that the recommended pathology protocol had not been followed. In both cases, SN metastases were identified following serial sectioning of the nodes. ConclusionsSN biopsy is feasible in routine clinical practice. However, undetected metastases in a removed SN may be associated with groin recurrence. To ensure patient safety, strict adherence to the pathology protocol is an essential component in the utilization of the sentinel lymph node technique in vulvar cancer.

Treatment Outcomes of Patients with Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Vulva: The Largest Series from a Tertiary Care Hospital.

Objective To evaluate the outcomes of squamous cell carcinoma (SCCA) of the vulva treated at our tertiary care center. Methods The medical records of SCCA patients treated between January 2006 and December 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Results One hundred forty-five patients met the criteria with the median age of 57 years old, and 58.6% had an underlying disease. The distribution of stages was as follows: IA 6.2%, IB 21.4%, II 26.2%, IIIA 14.5%, IIIB 6.2%, IIIC 9.7%, IVA 9.0%, and IVB 6.9%. One hundred and nine patients underwent surgical intervention and radical local excision with bilateral groin node dissection as the most frequent procedure. Approximately half of the patients received combined treatment with surgery followed by radiation with or without chemotherapy. Recurrence developed in 127 patients after the median follow-up time of one year with the common sites in the groin and vulva region. However, no significant difference in survival occurred in patients with and without groin node recurrence (15 vs. 28 months, P=0.109). The five-year overall survival was 50.8%. Conclusions The survival of patients with SCCA vulvar cancer was modest. The common failure sites were groin and vulva regions with unfavorable outcomes.

Malignant Transformation of Pleomorphic Adenoma of Vulva: Report of a Rare Case and Review of Literature

Pleomorphic adenomas are mixed tumors with epithelial and stromal elements and commonly arise in the salivary glands, particularly in the parotid. Pleomorphic adenomas of the vulva are very rare, and less than ten cases have been reported in the literature. We report a rare case of carcinoma expleomorphic adenoma, which we believe is the second such reported case in the world. A 65-year-old postmenopausal woman presented with vulval mass arising from mons pubis involving the left labia. Preoperative biopsy showed features of adenocarcinoma. She underwent a radical vulvectomy with bilateral groin node dissection. Histology revealed a low-grade epithelial–myoepithelial carcinoma expleomorphic adenoma. No adjuvant therapy was given. Patient is disease free at 6-months of follow-up. Carcinoma expleomorphic adenoma is defined as a pleomorphic adenoma in which an epithelial malignancy is derived. It commonly arises in the salivary glands, mainly the parotid. The most important factor predisposing to recurrence is positive surgical margins. Hence treatment is wide excision aiming at negative margins to avoid both the risk of recurrence and malignant transformation. Available evidence from the treatment of salivary tumors suggests that adjuvant radiotherapy may improve local control in high-risk cases.

Robotic-assisted inguinal lymphadenectomy: a systematic review.

Lymphadenectomy represents the standard treatment for various types of cancer. The introduction of robotics in lymph node dissection may have an important impact on post-lymphadenectomy complications. A systematic literature review was performed. In our review, robotic inguinal lymphadenectomy was performed on 51 patients. Penile squamous cell carcinoma was the most common histological type of the primary neoplasia. No intra-operative complications were reported. One case of conversion to open was reported. The mean duration of hospitalization was 2 days. The duration of drainage ranged from 7 to 72 days. The most common postoperative complications were lymphocele (13.7%), lymphedema (7.8%), cellulitis (7.8%), seroma (3.9%), abscess (3.9%), wound breakdown/wound infection (3.9%), sepsis (1.9%), prolonged lymphorrhea (1 out of 51 patients, 1.9%) and skin necrosis (1 out of 51 patients, 1.9%). Until now there has not been sufficient evidence regarding the role of robotics in groin lymph node dissection, though this approach appears to be safe and oncologically effective, with morbidity rates relatively lower compared to open surgery.