Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

A sentinel lymph node biopsy is a surgical procedure used to determine if cancer has spread from the primary tumor site to the nearby lymph nodes.

What is a Sentinel Lymph Node?

The sentinel lymph node, also known as the "guardian" lymph node, is the first lymph node in a group of lymph nodes that receives drainage from a tumor. It is the node most likely to contain cancer cells if the cancer has spread.

Purpose of the Procedure

The purpose of a sentinel lymph node biopsy is to:

• Determine if cancer has spread from the primary tumor site to the nearby lymph nodes
• Identify the first lymph node that receives drainage from the tumor, which can help guide further treatment
• Avoid unnecessary removal of additional lymph nodes, reducing the risk of complications such as lymphedema

How is the Procedure Performed?

The procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. A radioactive substance or a blue dye is injected near the tumor site to help identify the sentinel lymph node
2. The surgeon uses a special device to detect the radioactive substance or visually identifies the blue dye to locate the sentinel lymph node
3. The sentinel lymph node is removed and sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope to check for cancer cells

Types of Cancers that Use Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

Sentinel lymph node biopsy is commonly used in the treatment of:

• Breast cancer
• Melanoma (skin cancer)
• Vulvar cancer
• Penile cancer

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and complications associated with sentinel lymph node biopsy, including:

• Bleeding or hematoma at the injection site
• Infection
• Allergic reaction to the radioactive substance or blue dye
• Lymphedema (swelling of the arm or leg)
• Numbness or tingling in the affected area

Recovery and Follow-up

After the procedure, patients may experience some discomfort, bruising, or swelling at the injection site. The surgeon will provide instructions on how to manage these symptoms and schedule follow-up appointments to discuss the results of the biopsy and plan further treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a sentinel lymph node biopsy?
A surgical procedure to remove and examine the first lymph node that cancer cells are likely to spread to.

Why is a sentinel lymph node biopsy performed?
To determine if cancer has spread from the primary tumor site to nearby lymph nodes.

How is the sentinel lymph node identified?
Using a radioactive substance or dye injected near the tumor site.

What type of cancers use this procedure?
Breast cancer, melanoma, and other types of skin cancer.

Is the procedure done under general anesthesia?
Yes, usually as an outpatient procedure.

How long does the procedure take?
About 30-60 minutes.

Are there any risks or complications?
Bleeding, infection, and allergic reactions to the dye.

What happens if cancer is found in the sentinel node?
Further treatment such as additional surgery or radiation may be needed.

Can the procedure be done for other purposes?
Yes, also used for staging and planning treatment.

How accurate is the sentinel lymph node biopsy?
Highly accurate in detecting cancer spread to lymph nodes.