Ultrasound‐guided hookwire localization of non palpable cervical lymphadenopathy: A case–control study of operative time

Objective We aimed at evaluating the impact of ultrasound‐guided (US) hookwire localization of nonpalpable cervical lymphadenopathy on operating time. Design and Methods Retrospective case control study (January 2017 and May 2021) of 26 patients with lateral nonpalpable cervical lymphadenopathy undergoing surgery with (H+) and without (H−) per operative US‐guided hook‐wire localization. Operative time (general anesthesiology onset, hookwire placement, end of surgery) and surgery‐related adverse events data were collected. Results Mean operative time was significantly shorter in H+ group versus H− group (26 ± 16 min vs. 43 ± 22 min) (p = 0.02). Histopathological diagnosis accuracy was 100% versus 94% (H+ vs. H−, p = 0.1). No significant between group difference in surgery‐related adverse events was reported (wound healing, p = 0.162; hematomas, p = 0.498; neoplasms removal failure, p = 1). Conclusion US‐guided hookwire localization of lateral nonpalpable cervical lymphadenopathy allowed a significant reduction in operative time, comparable histopathological diagnosis accuracy and adverse events compared with H−. Per operative ultrasound‐guided hookwire localization versus nonhookwire localization of nonpalpable cervical lymphadenopathy allowed a significant reduction in operative time, comparable histopathological diagnosis accuracy and adverse events.