Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB)

The sentinel node(s) are the first nodes receiving lymph drainage from the tumor. This is where cancer cells are most likely to spread. A SLNB is a procedure used to check if breast cancer has spread to the lymph nodes.  This helps doctors stage breast cancer. A SLNB may be done at the same time as the breast cancer surgery. The first lymph node(s) that drain lymph from the tumor is removed to check for cancer cells. A tracer or blue dye or both are injected into your breast near the tumor. The tracer drains into the lymph vessels and travels to mark the sentinel node(s) which are then removed.

The sample may be sent for genetic & biomarker testing.

Keeping You Informed

When your surgeon is board certified, it means that they have completed additional voluntary training and testing in their area of medical expertise. They continue this training throughout their careers. You can check if your physician is certified on the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) website.