Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: Targeted Lymph Node Evaluation

# What Is Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy?

The sentinel lymph node is the first lymph node to which cancer cells would naturally spread. Using radioactive tracer and/or blue dye, Dr. Schwartz identifies the sentinel node(s) and removes them for pathology analysis. If sentinel nodes are cancer-free, the risk of cancer spread is very low, and additional lymph node removal may not be needed.

This targeted approach provides accurate staging information while preserving more lymph nodes and reducing complications like lymphedema.

# The Procedure

The day before surgery, you receive an injection of radioactive tracer into the breast tissue near the tumor. This helps identify sentinel nodes. During surgery, blue dye is also injected. Dr. Schwartz uses a probe to detect radioactivity and looks for blue-stained nodes, then removes these sentinel node(s) for pathology examination.

The procedure adds only 15-20 minutes to your mastectomy or lumpectomy and is performed under general anesthesia.

# Pathology Results

Sentinel nodes are examined for cancer presence. If no cancer is found in sentinel nodes (negative), the chance of cancer in other axillary nodes is very low, and your cancer is staged as node-negative. If cancer is found, further assessment and possibly additional lymph node removal may be recommended.

# Benefits & Outcomes

Advantages of sentinel biopsy include accurate staging, reduced lymphedema risk, preserved lymph nodes, and minimal impact on arm function. Recovery is faster than with full axillary dissection. For many women with early-stage breast cancer, sentinel biopsy provides sufficient lymph node information while minimizing complications.

# Related Procedures