After 15-30 minutes of rapid histopathological testing, also known as frozen biopsy, the doctor can determine whether a tumor is benign or malignant with 92% accuracy. This information allows the doctor to decide on the most suitable surgical direction for the patient. Dr. Nguyen Van Thai, Deputy Pathologist at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, explained that frozen biopsy is conducted concurrently with surgery to determine the nature of tumors, body tissues, or lymph nodes. Based on the 92% accurate results, the surgeon can provide appropriate treatment guidance, ultimately improving the success rate of surgery and subsequent treatment.
Frozen biopsy is an essential tool for doctors when determining whether there are still malignant cells present in the margin section during melanoma surgery. This approach allows patients to undergo only one surgery to address both diagnostic biopsy and surgical treatment, optimizing efficiency in patient care. Dr. Huynh Ba Tan from the Department of Breast Surgery at Tam Anh General Hospital highlighted the importance of frozen biopsy in enabling accurate surgical decisions and preventing the need for repeat surgeries based solely on medical experience.
In cases of early-stage breast cancer, frozen sentinel lymph node biopsy is crucial, especially when there are no apparent abnormalities in axillary lymph nodes observed through ultrasound and mammogram results. The sentinel lymph node plays a critical role in determining the risk of cancer cell spread to other lymph nodes in the armpit. By removing only this primary node and assessing it for malignant cells, doctors can make informed decisions regarding further treatment steps for the patient.
Prior to advancements in frozen biopsy techniques, breast cancer patients typically underwent comprehensive removal of all axillary lymph nodes irrespective of cancer stage. This approach often led to complications such as lymphedema characterized by arm swelling, pain and limited mobility. With rapid testing and accurate interpretation through frozen sentinel lymph node biopsy procedures like Ms. Hong’s case who was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer was able to benefit from tailored treatment plans that minimize complications.
During Ms. Hong’s surgery at Tam Anh General Hospital’s Pathology Unit carried out frozen biopsy procedures to analyze her tumor tissue and lymph nodes rapidly while preserving her axillary lymph nodes and nipples effectively removing cancerous tissue without sacrificing healthy ones.
Frozen biopsy not only streamlines surgical processes but also enhances patient outcomes by reducing postoperative complications risks and improving overall treatment efficacy.
In conclusion, rapid histopathological testing or frozen biopsy is a vital tool for surgeons when deciding on appropriate treatment guidance based on accurate results within 15-30 minutes after diagnosis; this saves time while ensuring better outcomes for patients by reducing postoperative complications risks and increasing overall treatment efficacy
