Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
What is a Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy?
Sentinel lymph node biopsy is a diagnostic procedure used to identify if cancer has spread from its primary site to nearby lymph nodes. The sentinel lymph node is the first lymph node to which tumor cells typically travel when they begin to spread. This method helps determine if the cancer has started to spread and guides appropriate treatment.
What is this procedure used for?
Sentinel lymph node biopsy is primarily used in:
- Diagnosis of metastasis: To identify the presence of cancer cells in the lymph nodes.
- Breast cancer: Allows for evaluating the extent of cancer in patients with breast tumors.
- Melanoma: Used to determine if melanoma has spread to the lymph nodes.
- Surgical planning: Helps decide whether a wider dissection of lymph nodes is necessary.
- Reduction of unnecessary interventions: Serves to avoid the removal of multiple lymph nodes if the sentinel lymph node is free of tumor cells.
Benefits of high technology in Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
The procedure uses imaging techniques and tracer substances to locate the sentinel lymph node. These substances may include dyes or radioisotopes injected near the primary tumor. Once identified, the sentinel lymph nodes are removed and analyzed in the laboratory to detect the presence of cancer cells.
How is the procedure performed?
The procedure for sentinel lymph node biopsy involves:
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Preparation:
Tumor detection via the sentinel lymph node is a procedure that allows for identifying the first lymph node to which the tumor drains. This node, known as the sentinel lymph node, is examined to determine if cancer cells have spread. The technique is used to guide the doctor in treatment and avoid unnecessary removal of lymph nodes.
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During the test:
During the procedure, the medical team will locate the sentinel lymph node using images obtained through scintigraphy or visual techniques. Then, during surgery, the node will be removed for analysis. The extracted node will be sent to the laboratory to determine if it contains cancer cells. The localization and removal of the sentinel lymph node generally take between 30 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the case.
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After the test:
After the procedure, you can resume your normal activities, unless your doctor indicates otherwise. The results of the pathological analysis will be available in a few days and will be discussed with your treating physician. Based on the findings, the oncologist will adjust the therapeutic plan, which may include additional surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy.
Recommendations for the test
After the marker injection, it is important to avoid sudden movements and follow the medical team’s instructions to ensure the accuracy of the procedure. Additionally, be sure to follow all instructions before, during, and after the procedure to guarantee both your safety and the effectiveness of the treatment.
Are there any risks?
Sentinel lymph node biopsy is a safe procedure, but it may have minimal risks related to surgery:
- Pain or discomfort: At the injection site or surgical incision.
- Inflammation: Temporary swelling in the treated area.
- Allergic reactions: Although rare, they can occur due to the use of dyes or radioisotopes.
- Infection: Low risk at the incision site.
For your test to proceed smoothly, we ask that you arrive in advance of your scheduled time. This will allow us to complete the necessary administrative and clinical preparation.
Before the test, we will provide you with the Informed Consent form, a document with important information that you must read and sign.
If your appointment is for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), it is crucial that you inform us about the presence of pacemakers, metallic objects, prostheses (including dental), tattoos, or medication infusion devices, such as insulin pumps.
These diagnostic tests are very safe, but as with any medical procedure, there is a minimal possibility of incidence.
