Our Summary

This research paper pays tribute to Donald Morton, an extraordinary scientist and surgical oncologist, whose work has greatly influenced the medical field. The paper highlights his creation of the sentinel lymph node biopsy concept, a simple yet revolutionary method that has significantly advanced cancer surgery. This procedure makes it possible to identify if cancer has spread to the lymph nodes of patients, which is a crucial factor in determining the stage of the cancer and the best treatment approach. The author expresses deep respect and appreciation for Morton’s contributions, which will continue to benefit potentially millions of future patients.

FAQs

  1. Who is Donald Morton and what is his contribution to oncology?
  2. What is the sentinel lymph node biopsy concept developed by Donald Morton?
  3. How has the sentinel lymph node biopsy improved the surgical approach to patients with cancers?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about sentinel lymph node biopsy is to be aware that it is a minimally invasive procedure that helps determine if cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes. It is important to follow any pre-operative instructions given by the healthcare team and to communicate any concerns or questions with the healthcare provider. After the procedure, it is important to closely follow post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing and recovery.

Suitable For

Sentinel lymph node biopsy is typically recommended for patients with certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer, melanoma, and some types of head and neck cancer, where the cancer is likely to spread to nearby lymph nodes. This procedure helps to determine if the cancer has spread beyond the primary tumor, allowing for more accurate staging and treatment planning. It is especially useful in cases where traditional lymph node dissection may be unnecessary and can help reduce the risk of complications associated with more extensive surgery.

Timeline

Before sentinel lymph node biopsy:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with cancer that may potentially spread to nearby lymph nodes.
  2. Patient undergoes imaging tests and possibly a biopsy to determine the stage of the cancer.
  3. Surgeon discusses treatment options, including the possibility of a sentinel lymph node biopsy.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative preparations and consents to the procedure.

After sentinel lymph node biopsy:

  1. Surgeon injects a radioactive tracer or dye near the tumor to identify the sentinel lymph node(s).
  2. During surgery, the surgeon removes the identified sentinel lymph node(s) for examination.
  3. Pathologists analyze the sentinel lymph node(s) for the presence of cancer cells.
  4. If cancer cells are found, further treatment options may be discussed, such as additional lymph node dissection or adjuvant therapy.
  5. Patient recovers from surgery and follows up with their healthcare team for ongoing monitoring and care.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a sentinel lymph node biopsy and why is it recommended for my condition?
  2. How will the procedure be performed and what are the potential risks or complications?
  3. What are the potential benefits of undergoing a sentinel lymph node biopsy?
  4. Will the results of the biopsy impact my treatment plan or prognosis?
  5. How soon will I receive the results of the biopsy?
  6. Are there any alternative options to a sentinel lymph node biopsy that I should consider?
  7. How often do complications occur with this procedure and what is the success rate?
  8. Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional treatments after the biopsy?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after the procedure?
  10. Can you provide me with any resources or further information about sentinel lymph node biopsy?

Reference

Authors: Uren RF, Nieweg OE, Thompson JF. Journal: Crit Rev Oncog. 2016;21(1-2):7-17. doi: 10.1615/CritRevOncog.2016016916. PMID: 27480998