28512 – IS SSENTINEL LYMPH NODE BIOPSY AS HARMLESS AS IT SEEMS?

Abstract

Introduction: Sentinel lymph node biopsy is the gold standard for axillary staging in breast cancer patients, both in early
stages and in those who have received neoadjuvant therapy. Since its initial application, the results compared to axillary
dissection, especially regarding morbidity, have been notably superior. However, despite being less invasive, post-procedure sequelae are not uncommon, and in some cases, they can be disabling, with symptoms that affect patients’ quality
of life. Conclusion: Selective sentinel lymph node biopsy is a less invasive technique than axillary lymph node dissection
but not entirely harmless. In our series, the incidence of complications was 60.4%.