What procedure is performed to remove lymph nodes during breast surgery?

The sentinel lymph node biopsy is a crucial procedure in the context of breast surgery, particularly for patients with breast cancer. This procedure involves the removal of the sentinel lymph node, which is the first lymph node that cancer cells are likely to spread to from the primary tumor. By identifying and removing this specific node, surgeons can assess whether the cancer is present in the lymphatic system, which is vital for staging the cancer and planning further treatment.

The sentinel lymph node biopsy is advantageous because it is less invasive compared to complete lymphadenectomy, which removes multiple lymph nodes, potentially leading to higher risks of complications such as lymphedema. The sentinel lymph node biopsy allows for targeted evaluation of lymph node involvement, helping to minimize complications while still providing essential information for treatment decisions.

In summary, the sentinel lymph node biopsy is essential for determining the extent of cancer spread and significantly impacts clinical decision-making, thereby reinforcing its importance during breast surgery.