Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: A Visual Guide

If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, you might have heard about a procedure called a sentinel lymph node biopsy. This procedure plays a crucial role in determining the extent of your cancer and guiding treatment decisions. But what exactly is it, and what should you expect? This comprehensive guide will explain the sentinel lymph node biopsy, its purpose, the process involved, and potential side effects.

What is a Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy?

A sentinel lymph node biopsy is a surgical procedure used to determine if cancer cells have spread from the primary tumor to nearby lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped organs that filter lymph fluid, a clear fluid that circulates throughout the body. Cancer cells can travel through the lymph fluid and reach nearby lymph nodes.

The sentinel lymph node is the first lymph node that receives drainage from the area where the primary tumor is located. It is often the first node to be affected by cancer cells if they spread.

Why is it Done?

The primary goal of a sentinel lymph node biopsy is to determine if cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. This information is essential for:

• Staging the cancer: The stage of cancer refers to the extent of its spread, and the presence of cancer cells in lymph nodes is a significant factor in determining the stage.
• Treatment planning: If cancer cells are found in the sentinel lymph node, it may influence the type and extent of treatment required.
• Prognosis: The presence of cancer cells in the sentinel lymph node can affect the patient’s overall prognosis (outlook).

The Procedure: A Visual Explanation

Here’s a step-by-step explanation of the sentinel lymph node biopsy procedure:

1. Injection of Tracer: A small amount of radioactive tracer or blue dye is injected near the primary tumor. The tracer or dye travels through the lymphatic system and reaches the sentinel lymph node.
2. Identification of Sentinel Node: Using a handheld device, the surgeon locates the sentinel lymph node. The tracer or dye will highlight the node.
3. Excision of Sentinel Node: The sentinel lymph node is surgically removed and sent to a pathologist for examination under a microscope.
4. Analysis of Lymph Node: The pathologist examines the removed lymph node for the presence of cancer cells.

The entire procedure usually takes 30-60 minutes and is performed under general anesthesia.

Potential Side Effects

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential side effects associated with a sentinel lymph node biopsy. Common side effects include:

• Pain and swelling: The area where the injection was given and the lymph node removal site may be sore and swollen.
• Bruising: Bruising is common around the incision site.
• Infection: Infection is a rare but possible complication.
• Lymphedema: In some cases, the removal of lymph nodes can lead to lymphedema, a condition where fluid builds up in the affected area, causing swelling.

Recovery and Follow-Up

After the sentinel lymph node biopsy, you will need to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a few days. Your doctor will provide specific instructions for recovery. You will receive the results of the biopsy within a few days to a week.

If cancer cells are found in the sentinel lymph node, you may need further treatment, such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

Conclusion

A sentinel lymph node biopsy is a valuable tool for diagnosing and managing cancer. It helps doctors determine if cancer has spread, plan treatment, and assess the patient’s prognosis. If you have any concerns or questions about the procedure, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.