What is a Sentinel Node Biopsy?
Sentinel Node Biopsy is a surgical procedure used to evaluate the status of the sentinel lymph nodes, which are the first lymph nodes to receive drainage from the breast tumor.
By examining these nodes, surgeons can determine whether breast cancer has spread to the lymphatic system, helping guide further treatment decisions.
Sentinel node biopsy can also determine whether cancer has spread to the lymphatic system for Endometrial cancer, Melanoma and Penile cancer.
What happens during a sentinel node biopsy?
During a Sentinel Node Biopsy procedure, the following steps typically occur:
- Preoperative Evaluation: Before surgery, you will undergo preoperative evaluation, which may include imaging studies (such as lymphoscintigraphy) and discussion with your surgical team about the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes.
- Injection of Tracer: A tracer substance (usually a radioactive isotope or blue dye) is injected near the tumor site or in the areola. This tracer travels through the lymphatic channels and identifies the sentinel lymph node(s) that drain from the breast tumor.
- Identification of Sentinel Node(s): Using a combination of imaging guidance and visual inspection, the surgeon identifies the sentinel node(s) that have taken up the tracer. These nodes are removed for further examination.
- Pathological Evaluation: The removed sentinel node(s) are sent to the pathology laboratory, where they are examined under a microscope for the presence of cancer cells. If cancer cells are found in the sentinel node(s), additional lymph nodes may be removed for further evaluation (axillary lymph node dissection).
What are the benefits of having a sentinel node biopsy?
Sentinel node biopsy offers several benefits for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer or at risk of breast cancer such as:
- Minimally Invasive: Sentinel Node Biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure that avoids the need for extensive lymph node dissection, reducing surgical invasiveness and potential complications.
- Accurate Staging: By accurately evaluating the status of the sentinel lymph nodes, surgeons can determine the extent of cancer spread and tailor further treatment recommendations accordingly.
- Preservation of Lymphatic Function: Sentinel Node Biopsy minimizes the risk of lymphedema (swelling of the arm) compared to traditional axillary lymph node dissection, preserving lymphatic function and quality of life for patients.
What happens after a sentinel node biopsy?
After sentinel node biopsy, you will undergo a period of recovery, which may involve pain management, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments with your surgical team. Depending on the results of the biopsy, further treatment such as radiation therapy or systemic therapy (chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy) may be recommended.
At The Iowa Clinic, our board-certified breast surgeons are dedicated to providing you with expert evaluation, personalized treatment plans, and compassionate care throughout your breast cancer journey. We understand the importance of accurate lymph node evaluation and its impact on treatment decisions, and we are committed to achieving optimal outcomes for every patient.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you navigate your breast cancer treatment with confidence.