Sentinel lymph node: why is a scan done before surgery?

Lymphoscintigraphy may be planned before surgery to locate one or more sentinel lymph nodes. These nodes drain the area concerned and may be removed to check for possible spread of disease.

Imaging to locate the node and analysis of the node are different steps. In some breast cancer operations, the identified node is removed and sent to a laboratory; the image alone does not replace tissue analysis.

At Nancy University Hospital, a radiopharmaceutical is injected under the skin. After a wait that depends on the site, a camera takes images; further images are sometimes needed. Ask your own centre about timing and instructions.

Before the appointment, tell the nuclear medicine service if you may be pregnant or are breastfeeding. The team will check appropriate precautions and arrangements: do not decide on your own to stop breastfeeding or postpone the test.

Prepare the referral, requested documents and your medicines. Clarify the service’s instructions after injection, especially if you have a prescribed fluid restriction or need another hospital admission.

At Nancy, a written report is provided and must be given to the surgeon for the operation. Check with your team how to pass on the images and when you will discuss the node analysis and next steps.