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Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery

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01-06-2013 | Review Article

Sentinel lymph node biopsy in early-stage breast cancer patients: improved survival through better staging?

Authors: Pamela Meiers, Tulin Cil, Ulrich Guller, Markus Zuber

Published in: Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery | Issue 5/2013

Abstract

Purpose

The objective of this review is to summarize the evidence demonstrating that the sentinel lymph node (SLN) procedure is not only associated with significantly less morbidity compared to the axillary dissection, but may also result in better staging and improved patient outcomes.

Methods

A search of MedLine and PubMed articles using the terms “sentinel lymph node biopsy”, “breast cancer”, “staging”, “morbidity”, “survival”, and “outcomes” was conducted.

Results

Breast cancer staging includes axillary evaluation as an integral component. Over the past two decades, sentinel lymph node biopsy has evolved as a technique that has an improved morbidity over traditional axillary dissection. The sentinel node(s) undergo a more intensive pathologic examination than traditional axillary contents. In the node-negative group of patients, this may have led to stage migration and potentially improved disease-free and overall survival.

Conclusion

The SLN procedure is not only associated with significantly less morbidity compared to the axillary lymph node dissection, it may also result in more accurate staging, better axillary tumor control and improved survival.

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Title: Sentinel lymph node biopsy in early-stage breast cancer patients: improved survival through better staging?
Authors: Pamela Meiers
Tulin Cil
Ulrich Guller
Markus Zuber
Publication date: 01-06-2013
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery / Issue 5/2013
Print ISSN: 1435-2443
Electronic ISSN: 1435-2451
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00423-012-1037-2

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Sentinel lymph node biopsy in early-stage breast cancer patients: improved survival through better staging?

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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