Comparison of outcome and recurrence-free survival after sentinel lymph node biopsy and lymphadenectomy in vulvar cancer

Should video laryngoscopy or direct laryngoscopy be used for adults undergoing endotracheal intubation in the pre-hospital setting? A critical appraisal of a systematic review

The safety and utility of endotracheal intubation by paramedics in the United Kingdom is a matter of debate. Considering the controversy surrounding the safety of paramedic-performed endotracheal intubation, any interventions that enhance patient safety should be evaluated for implementation based on solid evidence of their effectiveness. A systematic review performed by Hansel and colleagues (2022) sought to assess compare video laryngoscopes against direct laryngoscopes in clinical practice. This commentary aims to critically appraise the methods used within the review by Hansel et al (2022) and expand upon the findings in the context of clinical practice.

Exploratory Study of the Clinical Value of Near-Infrared Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping With Indocyanine Green in Vulvar Cancer Patients

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical value of indocyanine green sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping in patients with vulvar cancer. The conventional procedure of SLN mapping in vulvar cancer includes peritumoral injection of technetium-99m nanocolloid before surgery and intraoperative injection of a blue dye. However, these techniques harbor some limitations. Near-infrared fluorescence imaging with indocyanine green has gained popularity in SLN mapping in different types of cancer.

Methods

We analyzed retrospectively vulvar cancer patients at our institution between 2013 and 2020 undergoing indocyanine green SLN mapping by applying video telescope operating microscope system technology.

Results

64 groins of 34 patients were analyzed. In 53 groins we used technetium-99m nanocolloid, in four patent blue, and in five both techniques, additionally to indocyanine green for SLN detection. In total, 120 SLNs were identified and removed. The SLN detection rate of indocyanine green was comparable to technetium-99m nanocolloid (p=.143) and higher than patent blue (p=.003). The best results were achieved using a combination of ICG and technetium-99m nanocolloid (detection rate of 96.9%). SLN detection rates of indocyanine green were significantly higher in patients with positive lymph nodes (p=.035) and lymphatic space invasion (p=.004) compared to technetium-99m nanocolloid.

Conclusion

Indocyanine green SLN mapping in vulvar cancer is feasible and safe, with reasonable detection rates. Due to its easy application and few side effects, it offers a sound alternative to the conventional SLN mapping techniques in vulvar cancer. In patients with lymph node metastasis, indocyanine green even outperformed technetium-99m nanocolloid in terms of detection rate.

Safety and feasibility of single-incision radical vulvectomy: a novel approach for the treatment of vulvar cancer

Background

In the process of decreasing the morbidity of wound-related complications after vulvectomy and IL for treating vulvar malignancy, we performed a novel surgical procedure—single-incision radical vulvectomy (SIRV). Here, we share our initial experience and report its safety and feasibility.

Methods

Patients with advanced local vulvar tumors were sequentially enrolled in this prospective cohort study to undergo SIRV. While performing SIRV, routine radical vulvectomies were performed first. Subsequently, the flaps of the bridge area between the vulvectomy incisions and femoral triangles were separated and the lymph nodes underneath were removed. Anterior working spaces (AWS) before the femoral triangle were then made. The saphenous vein was carefully identified and retained, while the superficial and deep inguinal lymph nodes were removed from the medial to the lateral sides. After careful hemostasis, the wounds were sutured. Patient demographics, clinical data, pathologic data, operation time, node count, and complications were recorded.

Results

Ten patients underwent SIRV for vulvar cancer. Average hospital stay was 11.70±3.16 (range, 9–13) days. The average number of harvested lymph nodes was 7.59±3.62 (range, 3–15) and 15.14±3.63 (range, 11–20) for per side or both sides of the groin. Blood loss was ≤35 mL. Three patients developed inguinal lymphoceles and underwent needle aspirations. Two patients had impaired wound healing and achieved healing after dressing change. No other postoperative complications were noted during follow-up.

Conclusions

Compared with conventional open inguinal lymphadenectomy (COIL) and video endoscopic inguinal lymphadenectomy (VEIL), SIRV is a more minimally invasive procedure. Our short-term observations showed that SIRV is safe and feasible and has good future application prospects for vulvar cancer. However, definitive conclusions cannot be made. Therefore, long-term oncologic outcomes and large-scale clinical trials are warranted.

Unilateral versus bilateral lymph-nodal metastases and oncologic outcome in vulvar cancer patients

PURPOSE

To evaluate the difference in oncologic outcome between vulvar cancer patients with uni- and bilateral inguino-femoral lymph nodal involvement and to identify factors affecting their oncologic outcome MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients who underwent inguino-femoral lymphadenectomy for vulvar cancer were classified into three groups according to their lymph nodal status at the histology analysis (negative, positive one side, positive bilaterally). PFS and OS survival were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to analyze factors predicting overall survival and progression-free survival. Multivariable models were used for variables reporting a p value ≤ 0.1 at the univariate analysis. p values ≤ 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

One hundred and forty-six patients were considered for the analysis. Patients with bilaterally negative lymph nodes had significantly longer PFS and OS as compared to patients with unilateral and bilateral involvement. Patients with unilateral lymph nodal involvement had better PFS than patients with bilateral lymph nodal involvement. Among these patients, the difference in the OS approached but did not reach statistical significance. At the multivariate analysis, the tumor size affected PFS and lymph nodal involvement affected OS.

CONCLUSION

Vulvar cancer patients with bilateral positive lymph nodes have worse oncologic outcome as compared to patients with unilateral lymph nodal involvement; similarly, patients with unilateral lymph nodal involvement have worse oncological outcome as compared to patients with bilateral negative lymph nodes. Furthermore, tumor size and lymph nodal status are independent factors predicting recurrence rate and overall survival, respectively.

Lymphoscintigraphy and sentinel lymph node biopsy in vulvar carcinoma: update from a European expert panel

PURPOSE

This study aimed to update the clinical practice applications and technical procedures of sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy in vulvar cancer from European experts.

METHODS

A systematic data search using PubMed/MEDLINE database was performed up to May 29, 2019. Only original studies focused on SLN biopsy in vulvar cancer, published in the English language and with a minimum of nine patients were selected.

RESULTS

Among 280 citations, 65 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. On the basis of the published evidences and consensus of European experts, this study provides an updated overview on clinical applications and technical procedures of SLN biopsy in vulvar cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

SLN biopsy is nowadays the standard treatment for well-selected women with clinically negative lymph nodes. Negative SLN is associated with a low groin recurrence rate and a good 5-year disease-specific survival rate. SLN biopsy is the most cost-effective approach than lymphadenectomy in early-stage vulvar cancer. However, future trials should focus on the safe extension of the indication of SLN biopsy in vulvar cancer. Although radiotracers and optical agents are widely used in the clinical routine, there is an increasing interest for hybrid tracers like indocyanine-^99mTc-nanocolloid. Finally, it is essential to standardise the acquisition protocol including SPECT/CT images, and due to the low incidence of this type of malignancy to centralise this procedure in experienced centres for personalised approach.

[Vulvar cancer treatment options: experience in the Oncology Center in Oujda]

Le cancer de la vulve est une affection néoplasique rare, représentant moins de 5% des cancers génitaux de la femme. L'objectif de ce travail est de décrire le profil épidémiologique, clinique, paraclinique, thérapeutique et évolutif du cancer de la vulve chez la population de la région de l'Oriental du Maroc, ceci à travers une analyse rétrospective de toutes les patientes suivies pour un cancer de la vulve, de juin 2007 à janvier 2014, et traitées au sein de l'hôpital d'Oncologie du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Mohamed VI de Oujda au Maroc. Notre analyse rétrospective a porté sur 34 patientes, d'une médiane d'âge de 65,7 ans, dont 52,9% étaient des multipares. Le motif de consultation dominant était le prurit dans 94.1% des cas. La moyenne du délai de consultation était de 16 mois, allant de 2 mois à 8 ans. L'ignorance et la pudeur ont été les causes majeures de ce retard diagnostique, puisque 73.5% des patientes avaient déjà une maladie localement avancée au diagnostic. Le traitement chirurgical a été proposé à 61.4% des cas, il a consisté en une vulvectomie radicale avec un curage inguinal bilatéral dans 68.5% des cas. Le recours à la radiothérapie adjuvante a été indiqué chez 41.2% des cas, 5.9% des patientes ont bénéficié d'une radiothérapie néo adjuvante, et 20,6% d'une radiothérapie exclusive associée à une chimiothérapie concomitante. La chimiothérapie palliative a été proposée pour 8.8% des patientes. Le taux de survie globale à 3 ans est à 65%, le taux de récidives locorégionales ou à distance est de 17.3% des cas. Les particularités culturelles et sociales des patientes de la région de l'Oriental du Maroc, qui sont suivies pour un cancer de la vulve, sont des facteurs influençant le traitement et ses résultats. Des efforts de prévention et de sensibilisation supplémentaires sont à mener afin de réduire l'incidence des stades localement avancés, et de permettre un traitement curatif à cette population.

Sentinel lymph nodes in vulvar cancer: Management dilemmas in patients with positive nodes and larger tumors

BACKGROUND

Although sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy has been routinely used in the treatment of invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), questions still remain regarding the management of patients with positive nodes, as well as its use in patients with larger tumors.

METHODS

Retrospective study of all patients at a single institution with primary vulvar cancer who had SLN biopsy (2008-2015). Patient and tumor characteristics were collected from hospital records. For patients with positive SLN and for those with tumors ≥40 mm, recurrence rates and location were specifically recorded.

RESULTS

SLN biopsy was successful in 159 patients (245 groins). Median follow-up was 31 months. 120 patients (187 groins) had a negative SLN without an inguinofemoral lymph node dissection (IFL); there were 6 ipsilateral groin recurrences (5%). 7 patients had micrometastasis (≤2 mm) in the SLN and were treated by radiotherapy. There were no recurrences in the irradiated groins. 19 patients with a positive unilateral SLN had bilateral IFL. One (5.3%) had a positive node in the contralateral groin. 9 patients with positive unilateral SLN had subsequent ipsilateral IFL; there were no groin recurrences in the contralateral groin. 20 patients had tumor size ≥40 mm. 11 patients had a negative SLN biopsy, and thus no IFL; of these patients, 1 had an isolated groin recurrence (9%).

CONCLUSION

These data suggest it is reasonable to omit a full groin dissection for micrometastatic disease in the SLN, and to perform a unilateral groin dissection in patients with unilateral SLN metastasis. SLN alone in larger tumors may have a higher groin recurrence rate.

Sentinel lymph node mapping in endometrial cancer: comparison of fluorescence dye with traditional radiocolloid and blue

Sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping in endometrial cancer (EMCA) is rapidly gaining acceptance in the clinical community. As compared to a full lymphadenectomy in every patient, to a selective lymphadenectomy after frozen section of uterus in selected patients with intrauterine risk factors or to a strategy in which a lymphadenectomy is always omitted, SLN mapping seems to be a reasonable and oncologically safe middle ground. Various protocols can be used when applying an SLN mapping. In this manuscript we review the characteristics, toxicity and clinical impact of technetium-99m radiocolloid (Tc-99m), of the blue dyes (methylene blue, isosulfan blue and patent blue) and of indocyanine green (ICG). ICG has an excellent toxicity profile, has higher overall and bilateral detection rates as compared to blue dyes and higher bilateral detection rates as compared to a combination of Tc-99m and blue dye. The detrimental effect of BMI on the detection rates is attenuated when ICG is used as a tracer. The ease of use of the ICG SLN mapping is perceived by the patients as a better quality of care delivered. Whenever possible, ICG should be favored over the other tracers for SLN mapping in EMCA patients.

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Vulvar Cancer Using Combined Radioactive and Fluorescence Guidance

OBJECTIVE

Near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging using indocyanine green (ICG) has recently been introduced to improve the sentinel lymph node (SLN) procedure. Several optical tracers have been successfully tested. However, the optimal tracer formulation is still unknown. This study evaluates the performance of ICG-technetium-99m (99mTc)-nanocolloid in relation to 2 most commonly used ICG-based formulas during SLN biopsy in vulvar cancer.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Twelve women who planned to undergo SLN biopsy for stage I vulvar cancer were prospectively included. Sentinel lymph node mapping was performed using the dual-modality radioactive and NIR fluorescence tracer ICG-99mTc-nanocolloid. All patients underwent combined SLN localization using NIR fluorescence and the (current) gold standard using blue dye and radioactive guidance.

RESULTS

In all 12 patients, at least 1 SLN was detected during surgery. A total of 21 lymph nodes (median 2; range, 1-3) were resected. Median time between skin incision and first SLN detection was 8 (range, 1-22) minutes. All resected SLNs were both radioactive and fluorescent, although only 13 (62%) of 21 SLNs stained blue. Median brightness of exposed SLNs, expressed as signal-to-background ratio, was 5.4 (range, 1.8-11.8). Lymph node metastases were found in 3 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Near-infrared fluorescence-guided SLN mapping is feasible and outperforms blue dye staining. Premixing ICG with 99mTc-nanocolloid provides real-time intraoperative imaging of the SN and seems to be the optimal tracer combination in terms of intraoperative detection rate of the SN (100%). Moreover, ICG-99mTc-nanocolloid allows the administration of a 5-times lower injected dose of ICG (compared with ICG and ICG absorbed to human serum albumin) and can be injected up to 20 hours before surgery.

Groin Recurrences in Node Negative Vulvar Cancer Patients After Sole Sentinel Lymph Node Dissection

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the recurrence rates after sole sentinel dissection in vulvar cancer and describe characteristics of groin recurrences.

Methods

All vulvar cancer cases between 2008 and 2014 were reviewed. Inclusion criteria were restricted to lymph node–negative patients, sole sentinel lymph node dissection (SLND), and tumor diameter less than 4 cm. In all patients, Tc-99m nanocolloid was used for preoperative SLN imaging. Regularly, planar lymphoscintigraphy and single-photon emission computed tomography with computed tomography were performed. Ultrastaging was routinely conducted on all negative lymph nodes.

Results

Of 140 vulvar cancer cases, 30 node-negative patients underwent sole SLND and met inclusion criteria. Keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma was determined in final histology in 20/30 (66.7%) patients and the mainly diagnosed tumor stage was pT1b (21/30, 70%). Three perioperative complications occurred. On average, 4.6 (1–9) SLNs were dissected per patient and 2.5 (1–6) per each groin, respectively. During a median follow-up of 43.5 (4–75) months, 5/30 (16.7%; 95% confidence interval, 7.3%–33.6%) local recurrences occurred. In addition, 2/30 (6.6%; 95% confidence interval, 1.9%–21.3%) groin recurrences were identified within a period of 12 months after the primary surgery. Both patients had large (>2 cm) midline tumors. Despite surgical as well as adjuvant treatment of the recurrent disease, both patients with groin recurrences died.

Conclusions

Sentinel lymph node dissection is a safe and feasible alternative in early vulvar cancer. But false-negative sentinel carry a high risk of mostly fatal groin recurrences. Especially, midline tumors larger than 2 cm have to be treated with caution, because they are mostly found in cases with groin recurrences after sole SLND.

Groin surgery and risk of recurrence in lymph node positive patients with vulvar squamous cell carcinoma

OBJECTIVES

Treatment of groin metastasis in vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) patients consists of surgery, often combined with (chemo)radiotherapy, and is associated with significant morbidity. Our aim was to compare the risk of groin recurrence and morbidity in patients with lymph node positive VSCC after standard full inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy (IFL) versus less radical debulking of clinically involved lymph nodes or removal of sentinel nodes only followed by radiotherapy.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of 68 patients with primary VSCC and proven lymph node metastasis to the groin(s) was conducted. Patients were divided into three subgroups by type of initial groin surgery (84 groins): sentinel node (SN), IFL, and debulking of clinically involved nodes. Most patients (82%) received adjuvant radiotherapy. Overall survival was analyzed using time dependent cox regression. Analysis of morbidity and groin recurrence-free time was performed per groin with the generalized estimating equation model and Kaplan Meier method.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the risk of developing a groin recurrence (SN 25%, debulking 16%, IFL 13%, p=0.495). Despite the fact that more patients received radiotherapy after debulking (90% vs 67%), the complication rate was significantly lower (p=0.003) compared to IFL, especially regarding lymphocysts and lymphedema (p=0.032 and p=0.002 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of groin recurrence was similar in all treatment groups. Debulking of clinically involved lymph nodes was related to a significant lower risk of complications compared to IFL. These findings support that the preferred treatment of patients with clinically involved lymph nodes is debulking followed by radiotherapy.

A prospective study in the evaluation of quality of life after vulvar cancer surgery

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to prospectively monitor the patients' quality of life (QoL) after vulvar cancer surgery.

DESIGN

The design was prospective clinical study.

SETTING

The study was set in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2nd Medical Faculty of the Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic.

METHODS

A group of 36 patients underwent vulvar cancer surgery: 24 patients were subject to inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy (RAD) and 12 to sentinel lymph node biopsy. To evaluate QoL, the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer, QoL questionnaires (QLQ-C30 and QLQ-CX24) were administered to patients before and 6 and 12 months after surgery.

RESULTS

In patients with vulvar cancer after inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy, increased fatigue and impaired lymphedema were observed. In the group of patients after sentinel lymph node biopsy, none of the QoL variables worsened postoperatively. Comparing both groups 12 months after surgery, the RAD group had significantly worse outcomes in body image and cognitive functioning than the sentinel lymph node biopsy group.Patients in the RAD group, who received adjuvant radiotherapy (n = 13), had worse QoL in symptom experience (P < 0.05) at 6 and 12 months after the surgery than patients without radiotherapy (n = 11).

CONCLUSIONS

Less radical surgery showed objectively better QoL results.

A Comparison of Radiocolloid and Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Imaging, Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping in Patients with Cervical Cancer Undergoing Laparoscopic Surgery

Background and Purpose

⁹⁹TC combined with blue-dye mapping is considered the best sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping technique in cervical cancer. Indocyanine green (ICG) with near infrared fluorescence imaging has been introduced as a new methodology for SLN mapping. The aim of this study was to compare these two techniques in the laparoscopic treatment of cervical cancer.

Methods

Medical records of patients undergoing laparoscopic SLN mapping for cervical cancer with either ⁹⁹Tc and patent blue dye (Group 1) or ICG (Group 2) from April 2008 until August 2012 were reviewed. Sensitivity, specificity, and overall and bilateral detection rates were calculated and compared.

Results

Fifty-eight patients were included in the study—36 patients in Group 1 and 22 patients in Group 2. Median tumor diameter was 25 and 29 mm, and mean SLN count was 2.1 and 3.7, for Groups 1 and 2, respectively. Mean non-SLN (NSLN) count was 39 for both groups. SLNs were ninefold more likely to be affected by metastatic disease compared with NSLNs (p < 0.005). Sensitivity and specificity were both 100 %. Overall detection rates were 83 and 95.5 % (p = nonsignificant), and bilateral detection rates were 61 and 95.5 % (p < 0.005), for Groups 1 and 2, respectively. In 75 % of cases, SLNs were located along the external or internal iliac nodal basins.

Conclusions

ICG SLN mapping in cervical cancer provides high overall and bilateral detection rates that compare favorably with the current standard of care.

Gynecologic oncologic imaging with PET/CT

FDG-PET/CT has been evaluated in a variety of gynecologic malignancies in a variety of settings and is approved by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services for the initial and subsequent treatment strategies of these malignancies. Cervical cancer is typically very FDG avid, and FDG-PET/CT appears to be most valuable for initial staging, radiation therapy planning, and detection of recurrent disease. For ovarian cancer, the most value of FDG-PET/CT appears to be for detecting recurrent disease in the setting of rising CA-125 level and negative or equivocal anatomical imaging studies. Initial studies evaluating response to therapy are promising and further work in this area is needed. FDG uptake in both nonmalignant and physiological processes in the pelvis can make interpretation of FDG-PET/CT in this region challenging and knowledge of these entities and patterns can avoid misinterpretation. Some of the most common findings relate to the cyclic changes that occur as part of the menstrual cycle in premenopausal women. Mucinous tumors and low-volume or peritoneal carcinomatosis are causes of false-negative results on FDG-PET/CT studies. As new tracers are developed, comparisons with patient outcomes and standards of care (eg, FDG-PET/CT) will be needed.

Sentinel node assessment for diagnosis of groin lymph node involvement in vulval cancer

BACKGROUND

Vulval cancer is usually treated by wide local excision with removal of groin lymph nodes (inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy) from one or both sides, depending on the tumour location. However, this procedure is associated with significant morbidity. As lymph node metastasis occurs in about 30% of women with early vulval cancer, accurate prediction of lymph node metastases could reduce the extent of surgery in many women, thereby reducing morbidity. Sentinel node assessment is a diagnostic technique that uses traceable agents to identify the spread of cancer cells to the lymph nodes draining affected tissue. Once the sentinel nodes are identified, they are removed and submitted to histological examination. This technique has been found to be useful in diagnosing the nodal involvement of other types of tumours. Sentinel node assessment in vulval cancer has been evaluated with various tracing agents. It is unclear which tracing agent or combination of agents is most accurate.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the diagnostic test accuracy of various techniques using traceable agents for sentinel lymph node assessment to diagnose groin lymph node metastasis in women with FIGO stage IB or higher vulval cancer and to investigate sources of heterogeneity.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched MEDLINE (1946 to February 2013), EMBASE (1974 to March 2013) and the relevant Cochrane trial registers.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Studies that evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of traceable agents for sentinel node assessment (involving the identification of a sentinel node plus histological examination) compared with histological examination of removed groin lymph nodes following complete inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy (IFL) in women with vulval cancer, provided there were sufficient data for the construction of two-by-two tables.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors (TAL, AP) independently screened titles and abstracts for relevance, classified studies for inclusion/exclusion and extracted data. We assessed the methodological quality of studies using the QUADAS-2 tool. We used univariate meta-analytical methods to estimate pooled sensitivity estimates.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 34 studies evaluating 1614 women and approximately 2396 groins. The overall methodological quality of included studies was moderate. The studies included in this review used the following traceable techniques to identify sentinel nodes in their participants: blue dye only (three studies), technetium only (eight studies), blue dye plus technetium combined (combined tests; 13 studies) and various inconsistent combinations of these three techniques (mixed tests; 10 studies). For studies of mixed tests, we obtained separate test data where possible.Most studies used haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stains for the histological examination. Additionally an immunohistochemical (IHC) stain with and without ultrastaging was employed by 14 and eight studies, respectively. One study used reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction analysis (CA9 RT-PCR), whilst three studies did not describe the histological methods used.The pooled sensitivity estimate for studies using blue dye only was 0.94 (68 women; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.69 to 0.99), for mixed tests was 0.91 (679 women; 95% CI 0.71 to 0.98), for technetium only was 0.93 (149 women; 95% CI 0.89 to 0.96) and for combined tests was 0.95 (390 women; 95% CI 0.89 to 0.97). Negative predictive values (NPVs) for all index tests were > 95%. Most studies also reported sentinel node detection rates (the ability of the test to identify a sentinel node) of the index test. The mean detection rate for blue dye alone was 82%, compared with 95%, 96% and 98% for mixed tests, technetium only and combined tests, respectively. We estimated the clinical consequences of the various tests for 100 women undergoing the sentinel node procedure, assuming the prevalence of groin metastases to be 30%. For the combined or technetium only tests, one and two women with groin metastases might be 'missed', respectively (95% CI 1 to 3); and for mixed tests, three women with groin metastases might be 'missed' (95% CI 1 to 9). The wide CIs associated with the pooled sensitivity estimates for blue dye and mixed tests increased the potential for these tests to 'miss' women with groin metastases.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is little difference in diagnostic test accuracy between the technetium and combined tests. The combined test may reduce the number of women with 'missed' groin node metastases compared with technetium only. Blue dye alone may be associated with more 'missed' cases compared with tests using technetium. Sentinel node assessment with technetium-based tests will reduce the need for IFL by 70% in women with early vulval cancer. It is not yet clear how the survival of women with negative sentinel nodes compares to those undergoing standard surgery (IFL). A randomised controlled trial of sentinel node dissection and IFL has methodological and ethical issues, therefore more observational data on the survival of women with early vulval cancer are needed.

Sentinel lymph node biopsy in vulval cancer: systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy with technetium 99 (99mTc) and/or blue dye-enhanced lymphoscintigraphy in vulval cancer.

METHODS

Sensitive searches of databases were performed upto October 2013. Studies with at least 75% of women with FIGO stage IB or II vulval cancer evaluating SLN biopsy with 99mTc, blue dye or both with reference standard of inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy (IFL) or clinical follow-up were included. Meta-analyses were performed using Meta-Disc version 1.4.

RESULTS

Of the 2950 references, 29 studies (1779 women) were included; most of them evaluated 99mTc combined with blue dye. Of these, 24 studies reported results for SLN followed by IFL, and 5 reported clinical follow-up only for SLN negatives. Pooling of all studies was inappropriate because of heterogeneity. Mean SLN detection rates were 94.0% for 99mTc, 68.7% for blue dye and 97.7% for both. SLN biopsy had pooled sensitivity of 95% (95% CI 92-98%) with negative predictive value (NPV) of 97.9% in studies using 99mTc/blue dye, ultrastaging and immunohistochemistry with IFL as reference. Pooled sensitivity for SLN with clinical follow-up for SLN-negatives was 91% (85-95%) with NPV 95.6%. Patients undergoing SLN biopsy experienced less morbidity than those undergoing IFL.

CONCLUSIONS

Sentinel lymph node biopsy using 99mTC, blue dye and ultrastaging with immunohistochemistry is highly accurate when restricted to carefully selected patients, within a rigorous protocol, with close follow-up and where sufficient numbers for learning curve optimisation exist. Patients must make an informed choice between the slightly higher groin recurrence rates of SLN biopsy vs the greater morbidity of IFL.

The EANM clinical and technical guidelines for lymphoscintigraphy and sentinel node localization in gynaecological cancers

The accurate harvesting of a sentinel node in gynaecological cancer (i.e. vaginal, vulvar, cervical, endometrial or ovarian cancer) includes a sequence of procedures with components from different medical specialities (nuclear medicine, radiology, surgical oncology and pathology). These guidelines are divided into sectione entitled: Purpose, Background information and definitions, Clinical indications and contraindications for SLN detection, Procedures (in the nuclear medicine department, in the surgical suite, and for radiation dosimetry), and Issues requiring further clarification. The guidelines were prepared for nuclear medicine physicians. The intention is to offer assistance in optimizing the diagnostic information that can currently be obtained from sentinel lymph node procedures. If specific recommendations given cannot be based on evidence from original scientific studies, referral is made to "general consensus" and similar expressions. The recommendations are designed to assist in the practice of referral to, and the performance, interpretation and reporting of all steps of the sentinel node procedure in the hope of setting state-of-the-art standards for high-quality evaluation of possible metastatic spread to the lymphatic system in gynaecological cancer. The final result has been discussed by a group of distinguished experts from the EANM Oncology Committee and the European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO). The document has been endorsed by the SNMMI Board.

Can preoperative neutrophil:lymphocyte and platelet:lymphocyte ratios be used as predictive markers for lymph node metastasis in squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva?

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet:lymphocyte ratio (PLR) before complete surgical staging provide information on lymph node metastasis in vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

STUDY DESIGN

All patients with vulvar SCC who underwent complete surgical staging at two institutions between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2011 were identified retrospectively from patient databases. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to evaluate cut-off, sensitivity, and specificity values for preoperative NLR and PLR to predict lymph node metastasis.

RESULTS

Data from 64 women with adequate information were analyzed. Lymph node involvement was detected in 19 (29.7%) patients. NLR and PLR were higher in the lymph node--positive group than in the--negative group (p < 0.001). The best cut-off values for predicting lymph node metastasis were 2.81 for the NLR, with 84.5% sensitivity and 89.5% specificity, and 139.5 for the PLR, with 68.9% sensitivity and 89.5% specificity. Forty of the 64 (62.5%) patients had NLRs ≤ 2.81 and 24 (37.5%) had NLRs >2.81. Lymph node involvement was more common in the NLR >2.81 group [60.7% vs. 5.6%; relative risk RR = 10.9, 95% confidence interval CI = 2.7-43.4; p < 0.001]. Mean tumor sizes were 4.2 ± 2.3 cm in the NLR >2.81 group and 2.1 ± 1.2 cm in the NLR ≤ 2.81 group (p = 0.001). The rate of lymph node involvement was higher in the PLR >139.5 group than in the PLR ≤ 139.5 group (54.8% vs. 6.1%; RR = 9.0, 95% CI = 2.2-35.9; p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative NLR and PLR are directly associated with nodal involvement status of vulvar SCC. These markers are simple, readily obtained and calculated, and easy to integrate into the surgical work-up of patients with vulvar SCC, at no extra cost.

A review of complications associated with the surgical treatment of vulvar cancer

OBJECTIVE

The mainstay of treatment for most vulvar malignancies is surgery to the vulva with lymphadenectomy to the inguino-femoral areas, plus radiotherapy or/and chemotherapy for locally advanced, or recurrent disease. Treatment is associated with significant physical, sexual, and psychological morbidity. The high morbidity rate has resulted in a continuing shift in treatment paradigms that focus on treatments that reduce morbidity without compromising cure rates. This paper reviews the complications associated with contemporary surgical treatment for vulva cancer and discusses preventative strategies.

METHODS

A review of the English literature was undertaken for articles published between 1965 and August 31, 2012 to identify articles that assessed complications resulting from surgery to the vulva or groins in patients with vulva cancer. Two independent researchers selected and qualitatively analyzed the articles using a predetermined protocol.

RESULTS

The heterogeneity of articles and differences in definitions and outcomes made this unsuitable for meta-analysis. Most studies advocated for change in surgical technique to reduce complications associated with inguino-femoral lymphadenectomy and surgery to the vulva, with varying success. The most effective means of preventing complications is by omitting systematic lymph node dissection. This can be achieved safely through sentinel lymph node biopsy. Saphenous vein sparing, VTE prophylaxis, the use of flaps and grafts, and preoperative counseling are additional ways to decrease morbidity.

CONCLUSION

Despite technical advances, complications following surgical treatment for vulva cancer remain high. More research, particularly multi centered randomized controlled trials to improve the quality of evidence and studies that focus on complications as an outcome measure and analyze individual surgeon complication rates, are needed. Measures also need to be standardized throughout the gynecologic oncology community to allow for better comparison between studies.

Near-infrared fluorescence sentinel lymph node biopsy in vulvar cancer: a randomised comparison of lymphatic tracers

This study aims to confirm the feasibility of near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging for sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy in vulvar cancer and to compare the tracer indocyanine green (ICG) bound to human serum albumin (HSA) versus ICG alone. Women received 99mTc-nanocolloid and patent blue for SLN detection. Subsequently, women randomly received ICG:HSA or ICG alone. In 24 women, 35 SLNs were intraoperatively detected. All SLNs detected were radioactive and NIR fluorescent and 27 (77%) were blue. No significant difference was found between ICG:HSA and ICG alone. This trial confirms the feasibility of NIR fluorescence imaging for SLN mapping in vulvar cancer.

[Current treatments of vulvar cancer]

Vulvar cancers are rare genital tumors. Their etiology is better understood. The management of these tumors has benefitted from recent therapeutic advances that decrease the morbidity of the treatments. Surgery is still the major curative option. But the limitation of the vulvar resections and the development of the sentinel-node technique have led to lower surgical morbidity and sequellas without increasing the risk of recurrence. Also improvements in radiotherapeutic treatment have been observed. Currently radiotherapy is realized in association with surgery in case of presence of risk factors of recurrence, or in place of surgery when this treatment is not possible or is too much aggressive. Morbidity of radiotherapy has largely decreased and association with chemotherapy leads probably to increased efficacy.

Longitudinal 3.0T MRI analysis of changes in lymph node volume and apparent diffusion coefficient in an experimental animal model of metastatic and hyperplastic lymph nodes

PURPOSE

To perform a longitudinal analysis of changes in lymph node volume and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) in healthy, metastatic, and hyperplastic lymph nodes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three groups of four female Copenhagen rats were studied. Metastasis was induced by injecting cells with a high metastatic potential in their left hind footpad. Reactive nodes were induced by injecting Complete Freund Adjuvant (CFA). Imaging was performed at baseline and at 2, 5, 8, 11, and 14 days after tumor cell injection. Finally, lymph nodes were examined histopathologically.

RESULTS

The model was highly efficient in inducing lymphadenopathy: subcutaneous cell or CFA inoculation resulted in ipsilateral metastatic or reactive popliteal lymph nodes in all rats. Metastatic nodal volumes increased exponentially from 5-7 mm(3) at baseline to 25 mm(3) at day 14, while the control node remained 5 mm(3). The hyperplastic nodes showed a rapid volume increase reaching a plateau at day 6. The ADC of metastatic nodes significantly decreased (range 13%-32%), but this decrease was also seen in reactive nodes.

CONCLUSION

Metastatic and hyperplastic lymph nodes differed in terms of enlargement patterns and ADC changes. Enlarged reactive or malignant nodes could not be differentiated based on their ADC values.

Pigmented lesions of the vulva

Approximately one of every 10 women has a pigmented vulvar lesion. Given the risk of melanomas and pigmented vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (squamous cell carcinoma in situ), proper evaluation of vulvar pigmented lesions is critical. Most vulvar lesions are benign; however, vulvar lesions grossly, dermoscopically, and histologically can appear atypical compared with pigmented lesions on the rest of the body. Thus, it is imperative to use not only a keen eye but also a low threshold for biopsy.

The accuracy of the sentinel node procedure after excision biopsy in squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva

INTRODUCTION

Restricting inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy to patients with malignant nodes would reduce treatment-related morbidity in vulval cancer patients. A prospective study was conducted to determine the diagnostic accuracy of the Sentinel Lymph Node (SLN) procedure in vulval cancer patients referred following either diagnostic or excision biopsy.

METHODS

Patients with clinical stage I and II squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva underwent SLN identification with peri-scar/lesional injection of (99m)Technetium-labelled nanocolloid (pre-operative lymphoscintigraphy and intra-operative use of a hand-held probe) and intra-operative blue dye. Radical excision of the vulval tumour or scar and formal inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy was then performed as necessary. SLN were processed separately and further examined at multiple levels to exclude micrometastases (H&E/cytokeratin staining) if negative on routine analysis. Clinical follow-up was carried out to identify and treat recurrences or treatment-related morbidity.

RESULTS

Thirty-two women took part. Fifteen were referred following excision biopsy and seventeen following diagnostic biopsy of their primary vulval tumour. One or more SLN was successfully detected intra-operatively in 31 patients (97%) and 45 groins. An SLN could not be identified intra-operatively in one case (re-excision of scar). On average, more SLN were identified in patients with their primary vulval lesion in situ compared with those whose tumour had previously been excised (2.6 vs. 1.8, p = 0.03). Midline tumours were more likely (15/17) than lateral tumours (1/15) to have bilateral SLN identified pre-operatively. Two patients with midline tumours previously excised had unilateral SLN. Seven patients (23%) and ten groins had inguinofemoral lymph node metastases. The SLN procedure correctly identified inguinofemoral metastases in six patients (nine groins). In one case (midline tumour, re-excision of scar) the sentinel node was positive on one side but false negative on the other.

CONCLUSIONS

The SLN procedure may be used to identify malignant groins in selected patients with vulval cancer. The extent to which previous vulval surgery might influence the accuracy of the SLN procedure deserves further investigation.

PET/CT Imaging in Gynecologic Malignancies Other than Ovarian and Cervical Cancer

Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) is an imaging modality used for staging, assessing response to therapy, and diagnosis of recurrent cervical and ovarian cancer. The potential role of FDG-PET/CT in other gynecologic malignancies such as endometrial cancer, uterine sarcomas, vaginal, and vulvar cancer has not been fully explored.

The role of sentinel node biopsy in gynecological cancer: a review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In early-stage vulvar, cervical and endometrial cancer, lymph node status is the most important prognostic factor. Surgical treatment is aimed at removing the primary tumor and adequately staging the regional lymph nodes. As morbidity of regional lymphadenectomy is high, sentinel node biopsy is a technique with potential for adequate staging with less treatment-related morbidity. This manuscript reviews its current role in vulvar, cervical and endometrial cancer.

RECENT FINDINGS

In early-stage vulvar cancer, level 3 evidence indicates that it appears to be safe to omit inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy in case of a negative sentinel node. However, false-negative results with fatal consequences do occur and are often attributable to procedural failures. For early-stage cervical cancer, level 3 evidence points to an acceptable false-negative rate of a negative sentinel node; clinical utility and safety remain to be established. The optimal technique of the sentinel node biopsy in endometrial cancer is currently unclear.

SUMMARY

In early-stage vulvar cancer, data suggest that sentinel node biopsy could be offered as a treatment option instead of routine inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy. However, more (long-term follow-up) data are needed to further appreciate real clinical benefits. It is emphasized that the procedure should be performed by a skilled multidisciplinary team, centralized in oncology centers and preferably within the protection of clinical trials. For cervical cancer, data are promising, but routine application cannot be recommended due to lack of data on clinical utility and safety. For endometrial cancer, studies on the sentinel node biopsy are still in feasibility stage.

State of the Art of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Vulvar Carcinoma

Treatment for early-stage vulvar carcinoma has evolved from radical en bloc dissection to wide local incision with lymphadenectomy through separate groin incisions, to sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB). The morbidity of SLNB is far less than traditional inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy, with less lymphedema and sensory deficit, shorter hospital stays and fewer infections. A multidisciplinary approach is required, with success of the SLNB technique maximized when radiolabeled colloid is used, with blue dye added when further identification is needed. Frozen-section analysis, followed by ultrastaging of the nodal sample, minimizes the need for reoperations and decreases the risk of false negatives. We believe that SLNB will become the standard of care for treatment of early-stage vulvar carcinoma.

A comprehensive overview of radioguided surgery using gamma detection probe technology

The concept of radioguided surgery, which was first developed some 60 years ago, involves the use of a radiation detection probe system for the intraoperative detection of radionuclides. The use of gamma detection probe technology in radioguided surgery has tremendously expanded and has evolved into what is now considered an established discipline within the practice of surgery, revolutionizing the surgical management of many malignancies, including breast cancer, melanoma, and colorectal cancer, as well as the surgical management of parathyroid disease. The impact of radioguided surgery on the surgical management of cancer patients includes providing vital and real-time information to the surgeon regarding the location and extent of disease, as well as regarding the assessment of surgical resection margins. Additionally, it has allowed the surgeon to minimize the surgical invasiveness of many diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, while still maintaining maximum benefit to the cancer patient. In the current review, we have attempted to comprehensively evaluate the history, technical aspects, and clinical applications of radioguided surgery using gamma detection probe technology.