A Trend Analysis of The Relative Value of Blue Dye and Isotope Localization in 2,000 Consecutive Cases of Sentinel Node Biopsy for Breast Cancer

Abstract

Using a combined technique of blue dye and radioisotope mapping, and with refinement of the radioisotope technique, we report 97% success identifying the SLN. Although we continue to recommend the use of both methods in SLN mapping for breast cancer, we observe with experience a declining marginal benefit for blue dye.