Lateral Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection

Lateral pelvic lymph node dissection (LPLND) is a surgical procedure used in the treatment of early-stage cervical cancer. It involves the removal of the lymph nodes located in and around the pelvic region to assess for the spread of cancer. LPLND is most often performed during radical hysterectomy, but may also be performed separately. By detecting cancer cells in the lymph nodes, LPLND can help physicians determine the best treatment plan. Additionally, removing lymph nodes that have cancer cells helps reduce the risk of the cancer spreading further throughout the body. As such, LPLND is an important part of treating early-stage cervical cancer.