Resection margins

Resection margins refer to the edges of tissue removed during surgery to eliminate a tumor or diseased area. Ensuring clear margins means no cancer cells or diseased tissue are present at the outer edge, indicating the problem has been fully excised. If margins are positive, cancer cells are found at the edge, suggesting some may remain. Clear margins reduce the chance of recurrence and often indicate a successful surgery. Pathologists examine the removed tissue to determine margin status, which guides further treatment decisions, such as additional surgery or radiation.