Sentinel Node Biopsy in Early Vulvar Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Cicco C De, Sideri M, Bartolomei M, Grana C, Cremonesi M, Fiorenza M, Maggioni A, Bocciolone L, Mangioni C, Colombo N, Paganelli G
Primary Institution: European Institute of Oncology
Hypothesis
This study evaluates the feasibility of the surgical identification of sentinel groin nodes using lymphoscintigraphy and a gamma-detecting probe in patients with early vulvar cancer.
Conclusion
Lymphoscintigraphy and sentinel-node biopsy under gamma-detecting probe guidance proved to be an easy and reliable method for the detection of sentinel nodes in early vulvar cancer.
Supporting Evidence
- Lymph node pathologic status is the most important prognostic factor in vulvar cancer.
- Complete inguinofemoral node dissection is associated with significant morbidity.
- Localization of the sentinel node was successful in all cases.
- All patients with negative sentinel nodes were negative for lymph node metastases.
Takeaway
Doctors can find important lymph nodes in vulvar cancer patients using a special imaging technique, which helps them avoid more invasive surgeries.
Methodology
Technetium-99m-labelled colloid human albumin was administered perilesionally, followed by lymphoscintigraphy and intraoperative gamma-detecting probe use to identify sentinel nodes.
Participant Demographics
Patients with invasive epidermoid vulvar cancer (T1–T2).
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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