Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
Why It Is Done
A sentinel lymph node biopsy is done to:
- See if a known cancer, such as breast cancer or melanoma, has spread to the lymph nodes.
- Remove a few lymph nodes instead of removing all the lymph nodes in an area. If the sentinel lymph node does not have cancer, this surgery takes less time, is simpler to do, and has a lower chance of long-term problems, such as ongoing swelling of an arm or leg (Reference lymphedema Opens New Window).
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference February 27, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Reference C. Dale Mercer, MD, FRCSC, FACS - General Surgery |
|
© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
