Our Philosophy on Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
At AR Plastic Surgery, sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is used when needed to help assess the stage of melanoma, especially in cases considered intermediate to high risk. This procedure helps determine whether melanoma cells have started to spread beyond the original site and can assist in planning future care. SLNB is used for staging purposes only and is not a treatment for melanoma itself.
The surgeons who operate at AR Plastic Surgery have experience in performing SLNB in anatomically complex areas and work in collaboration with referring dermatologists, oncologists, and nuclear medicine specialists to ensure comprehensive melanoma care. The decision to proceed with SLNB is made in accordance with current evidence-based guidelines and is discussed with the patient in detail during pre-operative planning.
Our philosophy places strong emphasis on education and informed consent. Patients are provided with clear explanations of what SLNB involves, why it is recommended, and what information it may provide. The role of SLNB in the context of melanoma staging is explained thoroughly to support patient understanding and ensure realistic expectations regarding potential outcomes.
Understanding Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
Sentinel lymph node biopsy is a procedure used to identify and assess the first lymph node—or group of nodes—to which cancer cells are likely to spread from the primary melanoma. These nodes are called “sentinel nodes.” If melanoma cells are found in the sentinel node, it indicates that the cancer may have begun to spread beyond the original site.
SLNB is most often recommended for patients with melanomas that are:
- 1.0 mm or greater in thickness, or
- 0.8 mm to 1.0 mm in thickness with high-risk features such as ulceration or high mitotic rate.
It is typically performed at the same time as the wide local excision of the primary melanoma. The sentinel node is identified using a combination of radiotracer and dye injected near the melanoma site. These substances travel through the lymphatic system to the sentinel node, allowing the surgical team to locate and remove it for examination.
The sentinel node is then analysed by a pathologist for the presence of melanoma cells. The results help determine whether further treatment or monitoring is needed and guide follow-up surveillance strategies.
