Trial of ligation versus coagulation of lymphatics in dynamic inguinal sentinel lymph node biopsy for staging of squamous cell carcinoma of the penis

Abstract

Lymphovascular control with diathermy is associated with a statistically higher short-term complication rate compared with ligaclip usage (ie 'permanent' ligation). Lymphocoeles are the principal complication and can result in delayed wound infection and breakdown. A small but statistical increase in operative time and wound length is likely to be related to registrar training.