The Sentinel Node in Surgical Oncology
Welcome to SentinelNode.net
Lymphatic mapping and sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) represent an exciting development in surgical oncology and is accepted as a standard of care for nodal staging in breast cancer.
SLNB has been validated as an accurate predictor of the status of the lymph node basins. This technique introduces a new concept of selective lymphadenectomy based on the histological status of the sentinel lymph node. This enables the surgeon to stratify patients for appropriate surgery without submitting the majority of those without sentinel lymph node metastases to unnecessary regional lymph node dissection with its associated morbidity and cost.
A further merit of the SLN approach includes improved staging accuracy by allowing the pathologist to perform a more detailed examination of a lymph node, which has the highest chance of harboring metastatic disease.
Successful sentinel lymph node mapping and biopsy requires a concerted team effort between nuclear medicine physicians, surgeons and histopathologists, nursing staff and other members of the multidisciplinary team. The process involves the administration of a radiopharmaceutical in the breast followed by imaging. Intra-operative detection of the SLN involves a combination of blue dye lymphatic mapping and the use of a gamma detection probe.
There is a well recognised learning curve associated with this technique and it is essential that the surgeon performing the biopsy procedure, as well as the multidisciplinary team involved in the patient care should undergo appropriate training. It is vital that lack of training does not bring this powerful new technique into disrepute. The primary goals of training should be to ensure a consistently high identification rate and more importantly a low false negative rate.
We decided to construct this website to provide access to information about this powerful new technology both to healthcare professionals and patients. The aim is to provide knowledge and technical tips required for introduction of this technique in clinical practice.
We do hope that you find it useful and would appreciate your suggestions and feedback.
Mohammed R S Keshtgar
Hiram S Cody
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