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Oncological Precision: The Sentinel Node Biopsy (SLNB) Procedure
Sentinel node biopsy is a surgical procedure used to determine if cancer has spread (metastasized) from a primary tumor into the lymphatic system. It is the gold standard for staging breast cancer and melanoma.
Identifying the "Sentinel"
The "sentinel" node is the first lymph node to receive drainage from a tumor. During the procedure, a surgeon injects a radioactive tracer or blue dye near the tumor. A gamma detector or visual inspection identifies the specific nodes that take up the tracer first.
Clinical Significance
If the sentinel node is clear of cancer, there is a high statistical probability that the remaining nodes in the chain are also clear. This allows patients to avoid axillary lymph node dissection, a more invasive surgery that can lead to chronic complications like lymphedema (permanent swelling of the limb).