Lymph Node Surgery
Clinics in East Grinstead, Maidstone, Sevenoaks, Caterham, Orpington and Oxted
Lymph Node Surgery
A sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is a key diagnostic procedure used to determine if melanoma, a type of aggressive skin cancer, has spread beyond the primary tumour site.
The “sentinel” lymph node is essentially the first node in the lymphatic system that cancer cells would likely reach. By examining this node, specialists can assess if melanoma has started to metastasize (spread), which is critical for accurate staging and treatment planning. SLNB is usually recommended for patients with melanomas that are of a certain thickness or display high-risk characteristics.
When is a Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy Recommended?
1. Tumor Thickness
Melanomas that measure 0.8 mm or more are at a higher risk of spreading and often warrant SLNB.
2. Ulceration
Ulcerated melanomas, which have a broken or bleeding surface, tend to be more aggressive.
3. Rapid Cell Growth
Melanomas showing a high mitotic rate or rapid cell division have an increased likelihood of spreading to the lymphatic system.
4. Location and Appearance
Melanomas in specific locations or with asymmetrical or irregular borders may also indicate a higher risk of metastasis.
If any of these risk factors are present, an SLNB can provide crucial information about the melanoma stage and guide the most appropriate treatment options.
How Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy Works
SLNB is performed after a melanoma diagnosis to check for cancer spread to the lymph nodes. Here is a general overview of the procedure:
1. Tracer Injection:
A radioactive tracer and/or blue dye is injected near the melanoma site. These substances travel through the lymphatic channels to the sentinel lymph node(s), allowing the surgeon to identify them visually or with a device that detects radioactivity.
2. Locating the Sentinel Node(s)
The tracer or dye guides the surgeon to the sentinel lymph node(s) nearest to the primary tumor.
3. Node Removal and Testing
Melanomas showing a high mitotic rate or rapid cell division have an increased likelihood of spreading to the lymphatic system.
Next Steps After Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
The treatment plan following SLNB depends on the presence or absence of melanoma cells in the sentinel node:
- Negative Result (No Cancer Found): If the sentinel node is cancer-free, it’s unlikely that the melanoma has spread. In this case, additional lymph node surgery is generally not necessary, but regular follow-ups and skin checks are recommended to monitor for any new signs of melanoma.
- Positive Result (Cancer Found): If melanoma cells are detected in the sentinel lymph node, this suggests that the cancer has spread. Treatment options for positive SLNB results may include:
- Complete Lymph Node Dissection: Removing additional lymph nodes in the affected area to control the spread.
- Targeted Therapy or Immunotherapy: These therapies work to combat melanoma cells throughout the body and stimulate the immune system’s response to cancer.
The findings from an SLNB help shape a personalised treatment strategy based on the melanoma’s stage, the patient’s overall health, and the characteristics of the tumour.
Why SLNB is Important in Melanoma Treatment
Sentinel lymph node biopsy plays a critical role in assessing melanoma spread, influencing treatment decisions, and helping specialists create personalized treatment plans. With early detection and tailored treatment strategies, SLNB helps improve the chances of successful outcomes for melanoma patients.
For those with melanoma, Ü Clinic Specialists are here to provide expert care, including advanced diagnostic procedures like SLNB to ensure that each patient receives the most appropriate treatment for their condition.
A a Glance
18+
Procedure Time
18+
Treatments Required
18+
Discomfort
Minimal
Downtime
Few hours
Results Appear
Few days
What Our Experts Say
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Dr. Radka Toms
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