Ask an Expert is a free question-and-answer service about breast cancer and breast health that is available on weekends. If you'd like to ask a question or comment, please visit us again on Saturday or Sunday. In the meantime, please search the existing topics using the search tool at the top of the page. It's quite possible that one of our many existing topics already addresses your question.
If you would like a consultation with a breast specialist at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center, call 443-778-2778. It is possible to get an appointment for a second opinion within a few days of contacting us.
We hope you find the information helpful!
| Forum | Questions | Ask a Question | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Lumpectomy with Sentinel Node Biopsy Questions about Lumpectomy with Sentinel Node Biopsy. |
882 |  |
| Asked | Publicly Submitted Question | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 4/13/2011 | I have a small (5mm) lump which was diagnosed as DCIS (Cribiform, Intermediate grade, no Necrosis) from 3 sections of core biopsy. I have seen 3 surgeons. Two suggest lumpectomy with Sentinal Node Biopsy, and the 3rd Lumpectomy only. The two surgeons suggest SNB because 1)it is in lump for (ie suspicious of invasive carcinoma) 2) its location under my armpit may make a later (second surgery) SNB difficult to do if the lump is found to have invasive component. I am debating about whether or not to do the SNB, as I do not want to do more procedures than necessary, but I also do not want to risk being in a bad situation if there is invasion. I am very active and need full range and use of my left arm for work and recreation. What do you suggest? | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 4/13/2011 | Either option is appropriate. The DCIS is small, intermediate grade, and chance of spread to lymph node probably small. However, if upon lumpectomy, any invasive ca found, it would be important to know status of SLN, so now a second surgery. SLN done at the same time of lumpectomy involves additional small incision near underarm, and should not in any way limit your range motion or future activities. Best wishes. | ||
Please note: This service is not intended to provide primary medical advice concerning specific medical care or treatment. Ask an Expert is a free service operated by health care professionals at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center. Due to the volume of questions and their complexity, there are times when medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists or oncology nurses are consulted for their input. These individuals volunteer their time for this service and will respond as soon as they are able. Please do not post or send the same question to us in multiple locations or categories.