During modified radical mastectomy, small lymph nodes are found embedded in fat between the pectoralis major and pectoralis minor muscles. These nodes belong to which named group?

• A Rotter's (interpectoral) nodes ✓
• B Deltopectoral (infraclavicular) nodes
• C Apical axillary nodes
• D Internal mammary (parasternal) nodes

Explanation

Rotter's nodes, also called interpectoral nodes, lie in the fascia between pectoralis major and pectoralis minor and receive lymph directly from the breast. They are removed during axillary clearance because they can harbour metastasis despite an otherwise negative specimen. Infraclavicular nodes lie above pectoralis minor near the clavicle, and parasternal nodes run along the internal thoracic vessels behind the costal cartilages, not between the pectoral muscles.

Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.