Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

Sentinel node biopsy is a relatively new way of pinpointing the first lymph node into which a tumor drains (called the "sentinel" node). This helps doctors remove only those nodes of the lymphatic system most likely to contain cancer cells. The sentinel node is the first place that cancer is likely to spread.

On the average, there are 2-3 lymph nodes clustered close together, which constitute the "sentinel nodes." In breast cancer, the sentinel node is usually located in the axillary nodes, under the arm. In a small percentage of cases, the sentinel node is found somewhere else in the lymphatic system of the breast.

How Is The Procedure Performed?

To locate the sentinel node, a radioactive and/or blue dye tracer is injected into the area around the tumor before a mastectomy or lumpectomy is performed. The tracer travels the same path to the lymph nodes that the cancer cells would take, making it possible for the surgeon to determine the one or two nodes most likely to test positive for cancer.

What Are The Advantages Of Sentinel Node Biopsy?

Research suggests that the sentinel node procedure can be useful in determining which lymph nodes to remove, without the risk of complications associated with surgically removing all potentially cancerous nodes.

When a lumpectomy or mastectomy is performed, only one or a few lymph nodes are removed for laboratory analysis using the sentinel node biopsy technique. In traditional lumpectomy or mastectomy procedures, a greater number of the axillary nodes are removed, which can lead to complications after surgery such as lymphedema.

Experience and Training

Dr. Whitacre and Dr. Louie have successfully performed hundreds of sentinel lymph node procedures.  While working at a breast center in Baltimore, Dr. Whitacre contributed to the important national trial NSAPB-32, in which specialists across the country helped established the validity of this new surgical technique.