Intraoperative consultation in gynecologic pathology.

Overview

CONTEXT: Gynecologic specimens are commonly submitted for intraoperative consultation, primarily to confirm the presence and histologic type of malignancy, as well as to determine the adequacy of resection by examining the surgical margins. OBJECTIVE: To review and discuss the application, indications, contraindications, and limitations of intraoperative consultation regarding gynecologic specimens, as well as the causes of false-positive or false-negative frozen section results. DATA SOURCES: Review of the pertinent literature and the authors' expertise and experience. CONCLUSIONS: In most instances, intraoperative consultation regarding gynecologic specimens accurately determines the type of malignancy, the status of the resection margins or the lymph nodes, and the extent and depth of involvement by a tumor. Although the pathologist and the surgeon must be aware of the limitations, the use of intraoperative consultation represents a highly sensitive and specific technique that can play a critical role in the management of gynecologic disease.