What is sentinel node localisation?
Sentinel node localisation helps the surgeons to find where your lymph nodes are.
What will happen when I arrive?
When you come for your appointment we will inject a small amount of a radioactive
tracer into the breast tissue. The injection may sting a little but it will not make you feel
any different. Most of the time this is all we need to do and you will be free to leave the
department. Very occasionally we may scan you as well. This will be at least 30 minutes
after your injection if needed.
Will I need a Scan?
It is unlikely that we will need to scan you after the injection. However, there may be
occasions where this may be necessary. If we do scan you the camera will be close to
your face and chest and the scan will take approximately 15 minutes. We may draw
some marks on your skin to indicate where your lymph nodes are.
Do I need to prepare for the injection?
If you are attending for your injection appointment on the day before your
operation, you may eat and drink as normal. If you are attending for your injection on the
same day as your operation, please follow the advice you have been given from the
ward regarding eating and drinking.
There is no need to stop any of your medication prior to the injection. The injection will not react with any medications.
Do I need to do anything special after the injection?
If you are attending for your injection appointment the day before your operation
you will be able to eat and drink as normal after your injection. You will still be able to
drive.
How safe is the injection?
The injection contains a small amount of radioactive tracer which emits gamma rays
(these are similar to x-rays). We use the smallest dose possible in order to provide
as much information as we can about your condition. The radiation dose is very low and
similar to the natural background radiation we all receive from the environment over a
period of 2 weeks.
The results of your scan will provide your doctor with useful information about your
condition, and will help them to plan your treatment. The benefits of having the scan
far outweigh the small radiation dose you will receive.
Further guidance has been published by Public Health England. Visit website – https://
www.gov.uk/government/publications/ionising-radiation-from-medical-imagingexaminations-
safety-advice
Alternatively, use an internet search engine to search for “PHE medical imaging ionising
radiation”.
The injection contains a product called Human Albumin which comes from screened
blood donations. The injection is safe but if you have any objections to receiving a
product of this nature please let us know.
Is there anything I should tell the staff before the injection?
Please tell us if you are, or may, be pregnant.
Please let us know if you have any allergies.
If you are breast feeding, please ring the department a few days before your appointment.
Additional Information
Directions to X-ray Central
X-ray Central is situated in Area 4 which is off the main hospital corridor and is
signposted. Please follow the signs for X-Ray Central and report to reception on arrival.
Relatives and Carers
If you require support during your appointment you may bring one accompanying adult with you.
They will not usually be allowed into the examination room. If you have any
additional needs, please let us know prior to your appointment.
Car Parking
Car parking is in the multi storey car park at the main entrance of the hospital. Car park
charges apply at this hospital. Please bring change with you if you are planning to park
on site. You can pay via debit/credit card at the multi-storey carpark.
Other facilities available
At the main entrance to the hospital there is a Cafe and shops selling light meals and
snacks. There is also a large restaurant for both staff and visitors near the main entrance.
Author Radiology Department
Approved by Radiology Policy Group
Date of Publication 20/09/2024
Review Date 01/09/2027
Reference No PL/604
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