Image
Practice Point
Sentinel node biopsy – Lymphatic mapping #2
Where combination technique is not available or suitable, the use of radioisotope alone or Patent Blue dye alone (where no nuclear facilities are available) may be considered, noting that the theatre team and anaesthetist must be aware of the potential for Patent Blue dye to cause anaphylaxis.
Where combination technique is not available or suitable, use of blue dye or radioisotope alone is an appropriate option. Blue dye alone could be used where no nuclear facilities are available; however, the individual surgeon’s sentinel node biopsy technique and results should be audited
How this guidance was developed
This practice point was adapted from the CA 2008a guidelines (Australia). The source recommendation was based on a systematic review of the evidence conducted in July 2007 and was not graded by the source guideline authors. The source recommendation was adapted by making the recommendation less directive, by highlighting the reason for caution, and by removing the information on audit measures. Importance of awareness of the potential anaphylaxis risk with Patent Blue dye by the theatre team and anaesthetist was specifically added. The CA 2008 guidelines further indicate that, in the event of an adverse reaction, agreed protocols should be in place. The source recommendation was accepted as a practice point, given the time elapsed since the systematic review.
Sentinel node biopsy – Lymphatic mapping #2
Practice Point
Where combination technique is not available or suitable, the use of radioisotope alone or Patent Blue dye alone (where no nuclear facilities are available) may be considered, noting that the theatre team and anaesthetist must be aware of the potential for Patent Blue dye to cause anaphylaxis.
Principles in action
Safe and quality care
This practice point was adapted from the CA 2008a guidelines (Australia). The source recommendation was based on a systematic review of the evidence conducted in July 2007 and was not graded by the source guideline authors. The source recommendation was adapted by making the recommendation less directive, by highlighting the reason for caution, and by removing the information on audit measures. Importance of awareness of the potential anaphylaxis risk with Patent Blue dye by the theatre team and anaesthetist was specifically added. The CA 2008 guidelines further indicate that, in the event of an adverse reaction, agreed protocols should be in place. The source recommendation was accepted as a practice point, given the time elapsed since the systematic review.