Cancer Survivors Network

Nancy - My surgeon explained that the sentinel node is just that the sign post for the other nodes, that the cancer cells would travel to that first "gate" if you will and then to the others -- thus the sentinel node tells whether they need to look at other nodes. If it is clear then the other nodes don't need to be examined. At least that is what my surgeon said. Check elsewhere on this site for more info on sentinel nodes or check with your local ACS people.

I trust the sentinal node method, if it's positive they will go after the other nodes (usually at a later date). They inject the radio-nucleotide (sp?) near the tumor site. The lymph channels that drain the tumor site will also take the "dye" to the lymph nodes. The surgeon will then know which nodes would most likely be positive. There can be so many life long complications from having lymph nodes removed....the more nodes, the bigger risk of complications.

Ultimately you have to be happy with the decision you make. If not taking all of the nodes is going to "haunt" you forever then maybe having all nodes removed is the better choice for you. Perhaps your surgeon can show you (or direct you to) medical research that will help you to make a decision you can comfortably live with.

It really stinks to have to make important decisions while being shell-shocked over the diagnosis itself. I hate that you, and the rest of us have to do it. But, you CAN do it!!

Hugs, El

I had the lumpectomy with sentinal node excision on 3/17. My surgeon took a total of six nodes, two clusters of two plus sentinel nodes. Their were two dyes used, the blue one injected in the OR and the radioisotpe injected the day before the surgery. They were checked in the OR as well afterward, the results showed no cancer in any of the nodes, on either report. I was very relieved and satisfied with this procedure. I have developed a seroma, an accumulation of fluid just beneath the operative site under my arm, but this appears pretty frequently. Not all women experience this however. Some research suggests it is associated with use of electrocautery during the surgery. Otherwise, I have no complaints about my decision or experience. It is amazing how many decisions are required after the diagnosis but there is so much information out there to help us make informed decsions and ones we will be happy with. Good luck.
K