Sentinel node biopsies are most commonly done for breast cancer and melanoma.
A sentinel node biopsy is a surgery done to determine if a cancer such as breast cancer or melanoma has spread from a primary tumor site to the lymphatic system. The biopsy can leave a small scar.
Location
Sentinel node biopsies are typically done between the upper part of a breast and the armpit. Surgeons are looking for the first lymph node, called the sentinel node, to which the tumor may have drained. If the sentinel node, once removed, is found to be positive for cancer cells, further nodes will need to be removed. This may result in a larger incision and additional scarring.
Recovery
The incision made by a surgeon will be approximately three to five inches in length, running horizontally from your armpit to the upper part of your breast. Initial recovery is fairly fast. The incision will completely heal within several weeks, though you will likely be back to your normal activity level well before then. The incision will scar, though once healed fully it should appear as a thin, slightly pink horizontal line on your skin.
Other Complications
The scarring from a sentinel node biopsy causes concern for many people facing the procedure. Another is the increased possibility of developing lymphedemia, which is a swelling of the lymphatic system that causes discomfort or pain in the arm.
Tags: sentinel node, breast cancer, breast cancer melanoma, cancer melanoma, incision will, lymphatic system, node biopsies
