What Are the Side Effects of a Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy?
Because sentinel lymph node biopsy involves removal of fewer lymph nodes than a standard axillary lymph node dissection, the potential for side effects such as lymphedema is much lower. Many patients who undergo sentinel node biopsy do not experience any side effects. However, some patients report post-operative pain, nerve damage, or lymphedema after the procedure. These symptoms occur more frequently when additional lymph nodes are removed along with the sentinel node. The blue dye that is injected will turn the urine green for about 24 hours and may cause a temporary bluish discoloration of the breast skin. The radioactive energy from the technetitum-99 injection dissipates on its own, and some of the radiation is eliminated through urine or bowel movement. The result is that the radioactive material is only in the patient for a short time. Once the energy is eliminated, patients will no longer carry the radioactivity. The levels of radiation involved in a sentinel node biopsy are c
