The Impact of Extensive Cytoreductive Surgery for Ovarian Cancer on the Histopathology Laboratory Workload

Objectives: Cytoreductive surgery is the principal management for ovarian cancer. Recently there has been progressive change to more extensive cytoreductive surgery (ECS) as evidence shows this improves patient prognosis. The aim of this study is to investigate the change in histopathology work load with change in surgical practice for the treatment of ovarian cancer patients at Hammersmith Hospital, UK. Materials and methods: Specimens for patients with ovarian cancer (n=116) were selected and classified into three groups: (i) standard debulking surgery; (ii) a mix of standard debulking and ECS and (iii) ECS only. The types of specimens and numbers of blocks in each group were studied. Results: Post-hoc analysis demonstrates a statistically significant increase in the number of specimens per case from standard debulking to the mixed group (p<0.0001) and to the ECS group (p<0.0001). There is also a statistically significant increase in the number of blocks from standard debulking to the mixed (p<0.0001) and to the ECS groups (p<0.0001). Conclusion: The study shows there is a significant increase in the histopathology workload with the shift from standard to extensive cytoreductive surgery, as well as increase in the complexity and range of specimens sent for histopathological examination. It is essential that centres opting for a shift to ECS ensure that adequate provisions and resources are in place to accommodate these changes.