I recently had a lumpectomy. The imaging showed that my lymph nodes were not impacted by the cancer. Also the cancer was very small and not aggressive. When they did the surgery, they found a few more small areas with cancer. I was relieved to hear the margins were clear. However, they want to do sentinel node surgery to remove a few lymph nodes and test them.
I would prefer not to have lymph nodes removed. Supposedly there is an incision biopsy that would take a sample, instead of excision, which would remove them.
They sent my tissue sample to be tested to get the Oncotype DX score to find out about the recurrence of cancer. This will also determine whether I have to get sentinel node surgery and what other treatments I will receive.
Has anyone had to go back for sentinel node surgery after a lumpectomy? What were some reasons you had to do this? Did you get your Oncotype DX score to determine if it was necessary? How did this surgery impact you? I have heard about all the side effects of removing lymph nodes. How was this for you if you had to do this?
The bottom line is that I don’t want to remove any lymph nodes, so trying to confirm it is necessary before I do this. Thank you!
I had 2 lymph nodes removed as part of my lumpectomy. The results aren’t back yet but I am glad I had them at the same time. Unsure of clear margins or if they need more lymph nodes hntil next week. Every day feels like a month but I am gald they they have had both the tumour and the nodes to look at together.
@rosek, Hi, I had the sentinel node biopsy done at the same time as my lumpectomy. I really didn’t want this but they told me there was no debate and it was for diagnostic reasons. Like you I was worried about the side effects. I have a 2-3 cms scar, it’s healing well (surgery was 3.5 weeks ago), however I’ve been doing the exercises and went back to Pilates today. Because they cut in deep and through nerves I can feel it’s knotty internally. I’ve got full mobility but sometimes get pains. I had 2 nodes removed. I suggest you question how many they want to remove?
Unfortunately 1 of my nodes is positive so now I’m waiting (anxiously) for the oncotype DX test recurrence results. I was told 4 weeks which is a long time… that result will suggest my treatment plan. I know I will need radiotherapy in my armpit and breast.
I’ve read that they either do a node clearance or radiotherapy, so it’s worth discussing it with your nurse and consultant. Though we are all different and so treatment is individualised. My cancer is IDC, stage 2, ER8, PR0, HER- and I’m post menopausal. Hope this helps and wishing you all the best x
My story is slightly different but hopefully of some use/info.
I had a sentinel lymph node biopsy during my mastectomy, almost 4 weeks ago. One of the tested lymph nodes turned out to have cancer cells.
Yesterday I had full lymph node clearance surgery. The whole area is numb still obviously. I have read and been told of the possible side effects and sure, they suck, BUT it is a preventative measure to reduce the risk of my cancer spreading so of course I’m up for it.
You would have the biopsy first as you state, as removal may not be necessary at this time. You don’t want to lose your lymph nodes unnecessarily.
In my opinion, if you need it and it’s recommended, obviously do it. Your team will not suggest any unnecessary treatment. I can fully appreciate you not wanting to and that is valid. I think we just need to go with it and understand reducing any further risks is welcomed despite possible side effects. Everything it seems has a side effect but… we go forward. Best wishes.
Hello, I am new to this forum and this is my first post. Yes I had to have a SLNB after a lumpectomy. I had the lumpectomy on 1st May, due to high grade DCIS. At results, I was told that the biopsy showed a hidden IDC of 5mm, the cancer was grade 2. I was told I would have to have the SLNB to check for spread to the lymph nodes, but that it was unlikely. However, out of the 2 nodes taken, one had 2.5mm cancer, which tipped me into macro territory ( if it is under 2mm, it is classed as micro and if only one node is effected, that call you node negative ). I am now awaiting the start of Chemotherapy, which would not have happened, if I had not had the SLNB, so I would be at high risk for the future. They did do an Oncotype test and it was high, even with two tiny, grade 2 cancers, but I am HER2+. I was offered a CT scan ( as the Oncologist could not guarantee that no other nodes were effected). I have the CT scan on Thursday. This is a terrifying prospect ( awaiting the results) but I wanted to complete my treatment and know that they knew how much cancer was in my body, before treatment started, so that they could check it had all gone. If I had not agreed to the CT scan, I would always be wondering and worrying myself to death. I don’t think that any of us want extra surgery or extra tests, but it will give you the best chance of long term survival. I wish you all the luck in the world and most SLNB do seem to come back clear, I was just unfortunate
I would be very nervous not doing the sentinel node clearance as they simply won’t know if you don’t check to see if they are clear or not. For me it was the biggest test after surgery. I would be very anxious to not do this as oncotype is limited in what it can tell you.
My nodes were clear first time however two years later an ultrasound showed up a problem in one node and I ended up having to get the works following this and full node removal. Personally I would prefer to live with the symptoms of the node removal than cancer.
Wishing you the very best whatever you decide.
I was fortunate however that this was found.
For me key is to gather all the info so you know you have done everything.
I finished active treatment in February after being diagnosed last September with grade 1 stage 1 hormone positive BC after a routine mammogram.
After 2 physical exams, an ultrasound and an MRI I was told there was no lymph node involvement. However during my lumpectomy 2 sentinel nodes were removed (standard practice) and one tested positive for cancer. My surgeon was really surprised. I immediately decided on a full auxiliary clearance, not waiting for my Oncotype score (which I later learnt was 15). It was a huge relief to find no other lymph nodes were involved. Some might think this was over treatment, but I don’t regret it at all. It has given me peace of mind and I am doing all I can now to remain healthy, lymphodemia and most importantly cancer free.
This is such a difficult journey. Everyone is different. Do your research, listen to your team and make your choices knowing they are the right ones for you at that time. Good luck!
