What Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping

Sentinel lymph node mapping is a surgical procedure used to identify and biopsy lymph nodes that are draining from a primary tumor. This is done to determine if cancer has spread to the lymph nodes and to help guide further treatment.

How is sentinel lymph node mapping performed?

Sentinel lymph node mapping is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. The patient is given a general anesthetic or local anesthetic.

The surgeon makes a small incision near the primary tumor and injects a radioactive tracer or blue dye into the tumor. The tracer or dye travels through the lymphatic system and accumulates in the sentinel lymph nodes.

The surgeon then uses a gamma probe or special light to identify the sentinel lymph nodes. These lymph nodes are then biopsied and removed for examination under a microscope.

What are the risks of sentinel lymph node mapping?

Sentinel lymph node mapping is generally a safe procedure, but there are some risks associated with it, including:

* Infection

* Bleeding

* Bruising

* Swelling

* Scarring

* Damage to nearby nerves or blood vessels

What are the benefits of sentinel lymph node mapping?

Sentinel lymph node mapping can help to accurately determine if cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. This information can help to guide further treatment and improve the patient's prognosis.

Sentinel lymph node mapping can also help to reduce the need for more extensive surgery. If the sentinel lymph nodes are negative for cancer, the surgeon may not need to remove the entire group of lymph nodes in the area.

Who is a good candidate for sentinel lymph node mapping?

Sentinel lymph node mapping is typically recommended for patients who have a primary tumor that is suspected to have spread to the lymph nodes. The surgeon will consider the patient's overall health, the type of cancer, and the stage of the cancer when deciding if sentinel lymph node mapping is the best option.

What happens after sentinel lymph node mapping?

After sentinel lymph node mapping, the patient will be closely monitored for any complications. The patient may be given antibiotics to prevent infection and pain medication to manage discomfort.

The biopsy results will typically be available within a few days. The surgeon will discuss the results with the patient and recommend further treatment if necessary.