Intraoperative evaluation of margin status: How much is enough?

Frozen section examination of the surgical margin status is commonly requested by surgeons during cancer resections. Intraoperative evaluation helps ensure that the tumor is completely excised and can improve local control and patient survival. The accuracy of frozen section analysis is improved with knowledge of diagnostic pitfalls and interpretive challenges. A case report of a head and neck carcinoma is discussed, and recommendations for methodology and interpretation of margin status are outlined for relevant organ systems.