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Overview

A sentinel lymph node biopsy is a procedure performed during breast cancer surgery to determine whether the cancer has spread to the axillary lymph nodes. The word sentinel means “guard,” and it refers to the first lymph node(s) to which cancer cells are most likely to spread from a primary tumor. If cancer cells are found in this lymph node, there is a high probability that the cancer has spread to other lymph nodes in the armpit. Sentinel lymph node biopsy, in early-stage tumors where there is no evidence of spread to the axillary lymph nodes, helps reduce post-operative complications (such as lymphedema) by preventing the unnecessary removal of lymph nodes. To accurately locate the sentinel lymph node during the procedure, either a special dye is injected near the tumor or a radioactive tracer is used. The first lymph node(s) that the dye or tracer reaches is then removed.

Procedure Details

• Procedure: Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
• Duration: 15-30 minutes (if performed alone), added to the surgery time if performed with breast cancer surgery.
• Anesthesia: Usually performed under general anesthesia as it is often done with breast cancer surgery. Local anesthesia may be applied if performed alone.
• Location: Atlas University Hospital – Istanbul
• Possible Side Effects: Pain, swelling, bruising, infection, lymphedema (arm swelling – rare).
• Recovery Time: Recovery begins within a few days.
• Expected Outcomes: Determination of whether the cancer has spread to the axillary lymph nodes, treatment planning, prevention of unnecessary lymph node removal.

Daily Plan

• Day 1:

  • Arrival in Istanbul and transfer to the hospital.
  • Pre-operative consultation and detailed examination with your surgeon. Evaluation of tests and planning of additional tests if needed.
  • Planning of sentinel lymph node biopsy and breast cancer surgery.

• Day 2:

  • Sentinel lymph node biopsy along with breast cancer surgery.
  • Post-operative pain control and drain monitoring.
  • Hospital stay usually depends on the type of breast cancer surgery.

• Day 3:

  • Post-operative check-up by the surgeon.
  • Changing of dressings.
  • Starting arm exercises.
  • Discharge from the hospital and transfer to the hotel.

• Day 4-5:

  • Rest at the hotel.
  • Continue arm exercises.
  • Gradual return to daily activities according to your doctor’s recommendations. Receiving pathology results and evaluation by the oncology department.

• Day 6:

  • Return to your country.

Post-Operative Care

• Use antibiotics and pain medications as recommended by your doctor.
• Do arm exercises regularly.
• Dress the surgical area as instructed, keep it clean and dry.
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions and schedule a follow-up appointment with a local doctor after returning to your country.

FAQ

• Q: Is sentinel lymph node biopsy painful?
  • A: There may be mild pain after surgery, but it can be controlled with pain medications.
• Q: How is sentinel lymph node biopsy performed?
  • A: During surgery, a blue dye or radioactive substance is injected around the tumor. These substances reach the sentinel lymph node through the lymphatic system and allow the surgeon to locate it. The sentinel lymph node is removed and sent for pathological examination.
• Q: What are the risks of sentinel lymph node biopsy?
  • A: There are risks such as infection, bleeding, and lymphedema (arm swelling – rare). Your doctor will explain the risks in detail.
• Q: Who is suitable for sentinel lymph node biopsy?
  • A: Sentinel lymph node biopsy may be performed in patients with early-stage breast cancer who have no suspicion of spread to the axillary lymph nodes. Your doctor will evaluate the characteristics of the tumor and your overall health to determine if it is right for you.