Lymph Node Evaluation
Evaluating lymph nodes requires a surgical incision. There are two ways this can be done: sentinel lymph node biopsy and axillary dissection. The surgeon will determine which procedure is appropriate for you.
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
This procedure uses a special labeling substance that is injected into the breast to identify the first lymph nodes that might be at risk of having cancer. This procedure involves the removal of fewer lymph nodes than an axillary dissection and is now widely used by surgeons.
Axillary Dissection
This procedure involves surgical removal of several lymph nodes in the axilla (armpit).
Learn more about sentinal lymph node biopsy from the National Cancer Institute.
