BackgroundThe aim of this review article is to assess the role of pelvic and paraaortic lymphadenectomy in the management of cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancer.MethodsReview of the literature on lymphadenectomy in gynecologic oncology was accomplished using MEDLINE entries dated January 1966 to September 1998.ResultsHistorical background, lymphatic tumor spread, clinical nomenclature of pelvic and paraaortic lymphadenectomy, surgical techniques, complications, and benefits for patients with cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancer are presented.SummaryAlthough pelvic and paraaortic lymphadenectomy has potential risks, in properly selected patients and in the hands of an experienced pelvic surgeon, the procedure has prognostic and possible therapeutic benefits.