[The role scalene node biopsy in the treatment in carcinoma of the cervix (author's transl)].

Of 75 scalene node biopsies 18 (24%) were positive. In 56 metastasizing carcinomas of the cervix 11 (20%) scalene node biopsies were positive. In primary inoperable cases (57%) or in recurrent spreading cases (54%) of carcinoma of the cervix the scalene node biopsy is valuable for the treatment plan. Irrespective of treatment the patients with metastases to the scalene node survived a mean of 10--11 months. The scalene node biopsy has few complications (6.7%). In the less than 3% carcinomas of the cervix confined to metastases in the lesser pelvis, the scalene node biopsy is not necessary. 2/3 of the prescalene lymph node metastases can be palpated by an experienced examinar.