About Scalene Node Biopsy
Key Highlights
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Provides a definitive tissue diagnosis for unexplained lymph node enlargement in the neck/chest area.Crucial for accurate staging of lung cancer and other thoracic malignancies.Minimally invasive approach with a small incision, leading to less post-operative pain and better cosmetic results.Can help diagnose non-cancerous conditions like sarcoidosis or tuberculosis.Offers a high diagnostic yield when imaging studies are inconclusive.
Who is this surgery for?
- Unexplained enlargement of scalene or supraclavicular lymph nodes detected on physical exam or imaging (CT/PET scan).
- To confirm or rule out metastasis (spread) of suspected lung cancer for staging purposes.
- Suspected lymphoma involving mediastinal or hilar lymph nodes.
- Diagnosis of granulomatous diseases such as sarcoidosis or tuberculosis when other tests are inconclusive.
- Evaluation of a mediastinal mass or tumor of unknown origin.
- Persistent lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes) that does not resolve with initial treatment.
How to prepare
- Complete a thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests and imaging studies (like a CT scan).
- Discuss all current medications with the surgeon; you may need to temporarily stop blood thinners.
- Inform the surgical team of any allergies, especially to anesthesia.
- Fast (no food or drink) for 6-8 hours before the procedure as directed for general anesthesia.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after discharge and assist you for the first 24 hours.
- Pre-operative counseling to understand the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes.
Risks & possible complications
- Bleeding or hematoma (collection of blood) at the biopsy site.
- Infection of the surgical wound.
- Injury to nearby structures, such as the phrenic nerve (which controls the diaphragm), leading to temporary or permanent shortness of breath.
- Damage to the thoracic duct, potentially causing chyle leakage, a rare but serious complication.
- Pneumothorax (collapsed lung) if the lung's lining is inadvertently punctured.
- Scarring or numbness around the incision site.
- Reactions to general anesthesia.
- Possibility of a non-diagnostic sample requiring further procedures.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial monitoring in a recovery area for a few hours to watch for breathing difficulties or bleeding.
- Pain at the incision site is common and managed with prescribed pain medication.
- Keep the incision clean and dry as per the surgeon's instructions; watch for signs of infection (redness, swelling, discharge).
- Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and vigorous arm movements on the side of the biopsy for 1-2 weeks.
- You may have a sore throat from the breathing tube used during anesthesia.
- Follow-up appointment to remove any stitches and discuss the biopsy pathology report, which is critical for planning further treatment.
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Typical hospital stay: 1 day (often outpatient or 24-hour observation)
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Expected recovery time: 1-2 weeks for routine activities; 2-3 weeks for full recovery and strenuous work
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering scalene node biopsy in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for scalene node biopsy in Turkey include Liv Hospital Bahçeşehir, Istinye Üniversitesi Hastanesi Liv, Liv Hospital Ankara, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform scalene node biopsy. MediFyr helps you compare general surgeons and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for scalene node biopsy compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | USD 272 – USD 816 | 1 day (often outpatient or 24-hour observation) | ~ 1-2 weeks for routine activities; 2-3 weeks for full recovery and strenuous work | Know More |
| Turkey | USD 2,013 – USD 6,039 | 1 day (often outpatient or 24-hour observation) | ~ 1-2 weeks for routine activities; 2-3 weeks for full recovery and strenuous work | Know More |
Top hospitals for Scalene Node Biopsy in Turkey
These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated general surgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing scalene node biopsy.
I was a total wreck before...
I was a total wreck before my appointment. First time seeing a doctor on my own and I was convinced it was something serious. Dr. Ram just listened, didn't rush me, and explained everything in a way that actually calmed me down. The hospital is huge and a bit overwhelming, but he made it feel okay. Left feeling like I could breathe again.
General surgeons for Scalene Node Biopsy
Explore experienced general surgeons who regularly perform scalene node biopsy and provide pre- and post-operative care in Turkey.
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- 31 Years Experience
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