Improving Sentinel Lymph Node Identification in Breast Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Kirby Robert M, Basit Abdul, Nguyen Quang T, Jaipersad Anthony, Billingham Rebecca
Primary Institution: Breast Unit, University Hospital of North Staffordshire, Keele University, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
Hypothesis
Three stage axillary lymphatic massage improves the successful identification of blue sentinel nodes using patent blue dye.
Conclusion
Three stage axillary lymphatic massage improves the successful identification of a blue sentinel lymph node in breast cancer patients.
Supporting Evidence
- A blue lymphatic duct leading to lymph nodes was identified in 163 out of 167 patients (97%).
- The localization rate improved from 85% with simple antegrade massage to 97% with three stage massage.
- Allergic reactions occurred in 1.2% of patients, treated with Prednisolone.
Takeaway
This study shows that a special massage technique can help doctors find important lymph nodes in breast cancer patients more easily.
Methodology
Patients received a subdermal injection of patent blue dye followed by a three stage axillary lymphatic massage before sentinel lymph node biopsy.
Limitations
The study only included patients undergoing surgical treatment for invasive breast cancer.
Participant Demographics
167 patients with invasive breast cancer.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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