A PLND is done under general anesthetic in a hospital operating room. A PLND may be done using a wide cut (open method) or laparoscopy (laparoscopic technique).

The surgeon makes a cut (incision) in the abdomen and removes the pelvic lymph nodes. The lymph nodes and any other tissue removed during surgery are sent to a lab to be examined by a doctor who specializes in the causes and nature of disease (a pathologist).

After removing the lymph nodes, the surgeon places a small tube (drain) and closes the cut with stitches or staples. A drainage bag is attached to the end of the tube to collect fluid draining from the area. This reduces the chance of fluid building up in the tissue and improves healing. The drain is left in place for a few weeks or until there is little or no drainage.

People who have a PLND are usually sent home 3–7 days after surgery.

You may be given:

. Antibiotics to prevent infection
. Pain-relieving medicine
. Instructions on caring for and dressing the wound
. Information about how to manage the drainage bag and tube
. Advice on how much and which types of activity you can do after surgery
. A follow-up appointment to see the surgeon in 1–2 weeks
. Information about symptoms and side effects you should report