In the multidisciplinary medical institution, Top Ihilov Clinic, the procedure for lymph node (sentinel) biopsy is widely accepted. Diagnosing metastases in sentinel lymph nodes is the most reliable method to determine malignant breast tumours. It is clear that lymph nodes affected by cancer are excised, and in the presence of micro metastases, the decision on lymphadenectomy is made by the treating oncologist.
Currently, breast cancer is detected at early stages thanks to the latest diagnostic methods and the high qualifications of specialists, which sometimes leads to difficulties in identifying metastases in lymph nodes, as they may not yet manifest. The concept of sentinel lymph nodes is used to detect metastases.
Methods for Identifying Sentinel Lymph Nodes
- Contrast. A method in which sentinel nodes are stained with special dyes, and the affected stroma absorbs the dye, thus indicating the affected node.
- Radioisotope. A method in which lymph nodes are exposed to a saturated radioisotope preparation, allowing the degree of node involvement to be determined.
- Combined. A method that combines staining and isotope exposure. This method more reliably shows problematic nodes.
At Top Ihilov Clinic, all diagnostic methods are actively used, but specialists prefer the combined method, as it allows not only to identify affected nodes but also to visually assess them.
Diagnosis and Surgery
For the most accurate determination of sentinel lymph nodes, a dye is injected subcutaneously or into the peritumoral area 20 minutes before the surgical intervention. In radio-diagnostics, the isotope is injected 3-4 hours before the operation; if time allows, it is preferable to inject it a day in advance. The identification of problematic nodes through lymphoscintigraphy is conducted before the surgical intervention, initially marking the most active nodes, which are then identified during the operation using a gamma detector.
Advantages of the Sentinel Lymph Node Method at Top Ihilov Clinic
The principle of surgical assistance at Top Ihilov Clinic is to remove everything that threatens the life and health of the patient while preserving as much natural tissue and organs as possible. This principle is also applied in surgeries for the removal of sentinel lymph nodes. During the surgical intervention, each node is sent for urgent morphological analysis, and during the operation, the surgeon receives the results of the study, thus having the opportunity to assess the degree of involvement and avoid touching the next healthy node.
Excellent conditions have been created for patients at the clinic, with comfortable rooms prepared and a curator provided who speaks the preferred language. After the operation, the patient is directed to the rehabilitation department. Subsequently, the patient can receive consultations regarding their condition from their treating physician.
Diseases Diagnosed at the Clinic
- Breast cancer