Minimally Invasive Cancer Lymph Node Sampling (Sentinel Node Biopsy) in West Palm Beach, FL

Name: Minimally Invasive Cancer Lymph Node Sampling (Sentinel Node Biopsy)
Brand: AQ Surgery
Rating: 5 (12 reviews)

The purpose of a sentinel node biopsy is to check for cancer spread without removing multiple lymph nodes unnecessarily. This minimally invasive cancer lymph node sampling technique has become the gold standard for identifying the spread of cancer.

woman laying back on couch with hands holding her head up

Minimizing Risks With Precision Testing

Sentinel node biopsy can help reduce the physical and emotional burden of cancer treatment by providing clear results that shape your doctor’s cancer treatment plan. It assists your doctor in determining the stage of cancer and assessing the likelihood that tumor cells have spread to other areas of the body. Under the expert care of Dr. Anastasiya Quimby, a board-certified specialist in oral and maxillofacial surgery, head and neck oncology, and microvascular reconstruction, patients receive tailored recommendations based on their biopsy results. If the sentinel node is found to be free of cancer, patients may avoid more extensive lymph node surgery, reducing the risks and complications often associated with removing multiple lymph nodes.

What Is a Sentinel Node Biopsy?

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is a procedure used to determine whether cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, which are critical structures in the body’s immune system. Lymph nodes filter harmful substances and fight infections, but they can also be entry points for cancer to spread from a primary tumor to other parts of the body. The sentinel nodes are the first lymph nodes to which cancer cells are likely to spread from the primary tumor, making them key indicators in staging and treatment decisions.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Cancer Lymph Node Sampling

The SLNB technique identifies the sentinel node and allows for the removal of only a few nodes, limiting the patient’s risk of complications such as lymphedema (chronic swelling due to fluid build-up), which is more common in traditional lymph node dissection, where many nodes are removed. By focusing only on the sentinel lymph nodes, the procedure is highly targeted, providing vital information without unnecessary tissue removal. Patients undergoing sentinel node biopsy experience shorter recovery times and less post-operative discomfort than those undergoing full lymph node dissection. This allows patients to resume their daily activities sooner and with fewer complications.

What to Expect During the Procedure

The SLNB procedure typically begins with the injection of a tracer substance—either a radioactive substance or a blue dye—near the tumor. This tracer travels through the lymphatic system to the sentinel lymph nodes, marking them as the first nodes to which cancer cells will likely spread. Dr. Quimby then uses a special device to detect the tracer or visually identify the nodes stained with the dye. Once the sentinel nodes are located, Dr. Quimby makes a small incision to remove them.

These nodes are analyzed in a pathology lab to determine whether cancer cells are present. If cancer is found in the sentinel lymph nodes, it could indicate that the cancer has spread to other lymph nodes or organs, influencing further treatment plans. If no cancer is detected in the sentinel nodes, it’s likely that the cancer has not yet spread, and additional lymph node removal may be unnecessary.

Why Choose AQ Surgery?

AQ Surgery specializes in minimally invasive cancer lymph node sampling in West Palm Beach, providing world-class care in a patient-centered environment. With her extensive training in oral and maxillofacial surgery, head and neck oncology, and microvascular reconstruction, Dr. Quimby combines surgical precision with cutting-edge technology, such as virtual surgery planning and advanced diagnostic tools. Dr. Quimby’s approach ensures each patient receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs, whether they are undergoing cancer surgery, reconstructive surgery, or both. The goal is always the same: to optimize outcomes and minimize the number of surgeries and surgeons seen so that you experience a faster recovery and the best possible quality of life post-surgery.

Experience Quality Cancer Care at AQ Surgery

Minimally invasive cancer lymph node sampling through sentinel node biopsy is a key procedure in modern cancer care. It allows for accurate staging, reduced risks, and faster recovery, helping patients take control of their health and move forward with confidence. Dr. Quimby’s expertise ensures you receive the highest standard of care, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond. If you or a loved one is facing cancer surgery, contact AQ Surgery to learn more about sentinel node biopsy in West Palm Beach.