sentinel node mapping

Sentinel node mapping is a diagnostic process used during cancer surgery to identify the first lymph node(s) that a tumor's cells are most likely to spread to. A special tracer, often a dye or radioactive substance, is injected near the tumor. This tracer travels through the lymphatic system, highlighting the sentinel node(s). Surgeons then remove and examine these nodes for cancer cells. If they are free of cancer, it's unlikely the cancer has spread further, which can help avoid more extensive surgery. This method improves staging accuracy and reduces patient morbidity.