SLN Imaging
What is a SLN imaging?
This is a pre-surgical procedure carried out to localise some important (sentinel) lymph nodes. A small amount of radioactivity is used to obtain pictures of your lymph glands with a gamma camera. These pictures will help your surgeon to plan the operation.
What is involved?
A
small amount of radioactive tracer is injected just under your skin. The
injection is no more painful than a blood test.
You may then have pictures taken immediately and, if required, after a delay
of about two hours. For the imaging you will be asked to lie on a bed whilst
the gamma camera obtains the images. You do not normally have to undress but
we will ask you to remove sufficient clothes to enable the radiographer to make
a few marks on your skin with a marker pen.
Is the radiation dangerous?
The amount of radiation you receive is small; it is comparable to that of an X-ray examination. The substances we inject are non-toxic and will not make you feel sick or drowsy. However, for radiation safety reasons pregnant women and children should not be brought to the Nuclear Medicine Department.
What about pregnancy?
Please tell us as soon as possible before the injection if you are pregnant or think that you may be pregnant. All female patients between the ages of 10 - 55 years will be asked to complete a form on arrival.
How long will it take?
The injection and the first set of imaging will take about 45 minutes. If delayed images are required these will be taken after about two hours.
Can I bring a friend or relative with me?
A friend or relative can attend with you but they will not be able to accompany you for the injection or scan.
What about my result?
We are unable to tell you the result of the test. The imaging is reported by a Radiographer and the result is sent to the surgeon who requested the imaging. However, the staff performing the procedure are fully qualified and will be happy to answer any other questions you may have.
If you have any further questions after reading this information
please contact:
The Nuclear Medicine Department (01202) 442499
References
This information has been produced by:
Head of Nuclear Medicine: Mr Lars Jansson
Date Produced: February 2007
Review Date: February 2008
Responsible Clinician: Dr NK Robson, Consultant Radiologist
