Final answer:
The procedure for removing all lymph nodes and surrounding tissue is called a lymph node dissection or lymphadenectomy, commonly employed in cancer treatments to remove or analyze lymph nodes that may contain cancer cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
The procedure that involves the removal of all the lymph nodes and the tissue under the skin is generally known as a lymph node dissection or lymphadenectomy. This surgical operation is often performed when there is a need to treat or prevent the spread of cancer. As part of the diagnostic process, a biopsy may involve the surgical removal of a lymph node to analyze it for the presence of cancerous cells.
These types of procedures are a common part of cancer treatment strategies. Lymph nodes act as filters in the lymphatic system, removing pathogens and debris. They are often removed when affected to prevent the spread of cancer, as they can harbor cancer cells that have metastasized. The lymphadenectomy can be therapeutic, to remove cancer, or diagnostic, to determine the extent of cancer spread.
When a patient such as Wei presents with a persistent swollen lymph node, a biopsy to check for conditions such as lymphoma may be warranted. If cancer is detected, further treatment including the removal of the affected lymph nodes may be recommended.