Bertheuil, N., Sulpice, L., Levi Sandri, G.B., Lavoue, V., Watier, E., & Meunier, B. (2015). Inguinal lymphadenectomy for stage III melanoma: a comparative study of two surgical approaches at the onset of lymphoedema. European Journal of Surgical Oncology, 41, 215–219.
To compare the difference in occurrences of lymphedema and other postoperative complications following two different surgical approaches for stage 3 melanoma
Researchers divided patients into two groups, one that received vertical incisions, and another that received transverse incisions. Taking into account individual variables and any postoperative issues, patients were retrospectively studied for the presence of lymphedema.
Retrospective chart review
No statistically significant difference was noted between the two groups regarding any variable or characteristics, including the primary lymphedema status.
The difference in surgical approach didn't influence surgical outcomes, potential complications, or potential for chronic lymphedema.
This study did not have a direct effect on nursing practice other than to help inform nurses about the low potential for surgical approaches to have a negative effect on outcomes.