Significance of lymph node dissection in gynecological oncology

Lymph node dissection has been an integral part of the surgical treatment of gynecological malignancies for over a century. The significance of lymph node dissection in gynecological oncology is reviewed in the light of our current knowledge of tumor biology. The original 'centrifugal theory' of metastasis formation leading to the concept of 'radical' surgery has its limitations. Lymph node dissection will still be necessary in gynecological oncology until molecular diagnostics have developed sufficiently and efficacious systemic therapies are available.