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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.
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Lymphedema Questions concerning Lymphatic obstruction or blockage of the lymph nodes. |
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| 7/11/2011 | Is it safe to do a SNB on both sides? I had 3 lymoh nodes removed in Jan after being dx w/DCIS in Jan w/mastectomy, and had no issues. Am now opting for prophylatic mastectomy on the remaining breast. My BS feels it will not pose a risk to do another SNB, just to be safe, and that there is minimal risk to have removed 3 lymoh nodes on each side. Your thoughts? BTW - there was a small spot detected on an MRI done in Jan on the breast to be removed. It is thought to be nothing, but an additional MRI cannot be done since I still have the expander in the right from earlier this year. They also tell me they cannot biopsy since another MRI cannot be performed. | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 7/12/2011 | Thank you for turning to the Johns Hopkins Breast Center with your questions. The purpose in performing a sentinel lymph node biopsy in the breast with cancer, is to decrease the risk of lymphedema that was found with a full axillary node dissection. There still can be a risk of lymphedema however with a SLN biopsy, depending on type of surgey and treatment, such as radiation. We would not recommend a SLN biopsy to a breast that is being removed prophalactically, and is not proven to contain cancer. We hope you have been seen by a medical oncologist that specializes in breast, who can advise you on risk reduction measures such as hormonal therapy, consulted with a breast surgical oncologist who can advise you on risk of recurence even with mastectomy, and a breast plastic reconstructive surgeon who can advise on latest techniques of breast reconstruction. Look for an NCI designated Comprehensive Breast Center in your area for another opinion. If we call be of assistance, call Shelia @ 443-287-BRST (2778) for an appointment. Hope this helps! | ||
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