What is sentinel lymphadenectomy?

Sentinel lymphadenectomy is a technique that involves identification and removal of a single key lymph node under the arm to assess the potential spread of cancer beyond the breast. In addition to being less invasive than other techniques, sentinel lymph node biopsy allows surgeons to obtain information immediately while the patient is still in the operating room. In addition, complications such as swelling and numbness are virtually nonexistent with this procedure.