Scalene-Lymph-Node Biopsy

Abstract

SHOULD scalene-lymph-node biopsy be performed routinely in patients suspected of having lung cancer? What are the risks of the operation and the expected yield of positive results in various clinical syndromes? Reports of series of biopsies provide little information to assist the physician in deciding when a biopsy is indicated. This is a report of five years' experience with scalene-lymph-node biopsy at the Massachusetts General Hospital undertaken to assess the clinical value and risk, and to determine specific indications for this procedure.Materials and MethodsIn this hospital, from 1957 through 1961, 260 biopsies were performed through supraclavicular incisions. The . . .