Pathology and Pathological Disorders

Surgical Pathology

Surgical pathology is a vital branch of pathology that involves the examination of tissues removed from living patients during surgery to aid in the diagnosis of disease and guide treatment decisions. This discipline plays a crucial role in identifying various conditions, particularly malignancies, by evaluating both gross anatomical features and microscopic characteristics of excised tissues. Surgical pathologists often provide intraoperative consultations, second opinions, and diagnostic clarity across a broad range of organ systems and clinical specialties. For example, in breast cancer surgeries, a surgical pathologist’s assessment of tissue samples can help determine whether lymph node removal is necessary. The process typically includes a macroscopic (naked-eye) examination followed by microscopic analysis to detect abnormalities. Surgical pathology significantly influences the clinical decision-making process and contributes to personalized treatment planning. In the United States, approximately 92 universities are engaged in pathology research, with leading institutions such as Stanford University School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Duke University, and Washington University recognized for their contributions to surgical pathology. Notably, the National Cancer Institute has allocated over $1.26 million to support ongoing research in this critical field.