Sentinel lymph node biopsy is used to evaluate lymph node involvement in breast cancer.
Axillary management is planned to allow accurate staging
while avoiding unnecessary surgical intervention where appropriate.
What is sentinel lymph node biopsy
The sentinel lymph node is the first node to which cancer cells are most likely to spread
from the primary tumour.
The procedure involves identifying and removing this node
to assess for metastasis.
This allows evaluation of axillary lymph node status
with less surgical burden than routine axillary dissection.
Axillary management
Decisions regarding axillary treatment are based on clinical findings,
pathological results, and overall treatment planning.
When appropriate, additional axillary dissection may be avoided.
This approach aims to balance disease control
with preservation of function.
Clinical basis for decision-making
Current practice is informed by clinical studies showing that,
in selected patients, omission of routine axillary dissection
does not compromise outcomes.
Treatment is selected based on individual clinical conditions
and established practice standards.
Reducing complications
Axillary lymph node dissection may be associated with complications
such as lymphedema, shoulder dysfunction, and sensory disturbance.
Careful selection of procedure helps reduce these risks.
Treatment planning considers both oncological safety
and long-term functional outcomes.
Appointment
Appointments are required in principle.
A referral letter from another medical institution is recommended but not mandatory.
For appointment requests and language support, please see the
Breast Surgery page.