Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

A sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is a surgical procedure used to identify, remove, and examine the sentinel lymph node for the presence of cancer cells. This procedure is often performed on patients diagnosed with cancer to help determine the spread of the disease.

What a Positive or Negative SLNB Result Means

A positive SLNB result indicates that cancer cells have spread from the sentinel lymph node to other regional lymph nodes and potentially to other organs. This helps the doctor assess the stage of cancer and plan appropriate treatment.
A negative SLNB result suggests that cancer has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs.

Alternate Names for Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

This procedure is also known as a lymph node biopsy.

Body Locations for Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

The sentinel node biopsy is performed depending on the type of cancer, particularly to check if cancer has spread to the lymphatic system.

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy Procedure Type

SLNB is a surgical procedure.

Preparation for Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

The first step in the biopsy process is locating the sentinel lymph nodes. Several methods may be used:

A mild radioactive solution is injected near the tumor, which is absorbed by the lymphatic system and carried to the sentinel lymph nodes. This injection is usually done several hours or a day before the surgery.
Methylene blue or ICG dye may be used to color the sentinel nodes. The dye, injected around the tumor, travels through the lymphatic system, turning the nodes blue for easier identification. You might notice temporary changes in skin color at the injection site, and your urine may turn blue briefly.
The surgeon may use either the radioactive solution, blue dye, or both methods to identify the sentinel nodes.

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy Procedure

The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, and you may be asked to fast for a certain period before surgery to minimize anesthesia risks.
The tracer or dye is injected before the surgery.
The surgeon makes a small incision near the lymph node area. If a radioactive solution was used, a gamma detector helps identify where the radioactivity has accumulated, allowing the surgeon to locate the sentinel nodes. If dye was used, the nodes appear bright blue.
The surgeon removes one to five sentinel nodes, which are then examined under a microscope by a pathologist to check for cancer cells.

Follow-Up After Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

Your first follow-up appointment will be scheduled based on your surgery type and recovery. Your doctor will check your wound, remove any stitches, staples, or drains, and evaluate your healing progress.

Risks Associated with Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

While SLNB is generally considered safe, there are potential risks, including:

Bleeding
Bruising or soreness at the biopsy site
Infection
Allergic reaction to the dye
Lymphedema, a condition where lymphatic fluid builds up, causing swelling

Recovery After Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

After the procedure, you’ll be monitored in a recovery room for any complications related to anesthesia or the procedure itself. If no additional surgery is required, you may be able to go home the same day. The recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the procedure, particularly if the biopsy is part of cancer treatment. You will receive guidance on when to resume normal activities.

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