Axillary lymph node removal for staging cancer; description of a lateral approach and application in 44 tumor-bearing dogs

Abstract

Objective: To describe a lateral approach for axillary lymph node (ALN) extirpation and evaluate complications in dogs with local malignant tumors. Study design: Retrospective study. Animals: A total of 44 dogs diagnosed with local malignancies. Methods: Medical records (January 2021–July 2024) were reviewed for dogs undergoing ALN removal, with or without primary tumor excision, at a single referral hospital. Surgical techniques and anatomical landmarks were described. Data collected included patient demographics, tumor characteristics, surgical details, and complications. Results: Axillary lymph node removal was performed successfully in 44 dogs (48 ALNs). Key anatomical landmarks included the costochondral junction of the first rib and the caudal scapular edge. Mean bodyweight was 22.9 kg (range: 5.5–49.8 kg). Average surgical time for combined ALN and tumor removal (n = 28) was 112 min (range: 29–220 min), while ALN-specific dissection time (n = 7; 9 ALNs) averaged 16.6 min (range: 14–35 min). No intraoperative complications, such as hemorrhage or inability to locate the LN, were observed. Postoperative complications included seromas (n = 2), wound dehiscence (n = 4), discomfort (n = 1), and significant lameness (n = 1), with a mean follow-up of 147 days (range: 13–588 days). Conclusion: This lateral approach provided a reliable and reproducible method for ALN extirpation in dogs, using consistent anatomical landmarks to minimize dissection time and surgical trauma. Clinical significance: This approach allows consistent ALN removal with reduced soft tissue dissection and without reliance on any intraoperative guidance techniques.