Lymphatic Mapping and Selective Sentinel Lymphadenectomy

This course is designed for general surgeons, plastic surgeons, dermatologists, nuclear medicine physicians, and nurses. The program features didactic presentations and a hands-on practicum for individualized instruction in lymphatic mapping and dissection techniques. Team registration of a surgeon, a nuclear medicine physician, and a pathologist is encouraged for effective utilization of the presented techniques. The participation of an operative nurse in the SLN mapping procedure is essential for the successful outcome of the operation. Therefore, a structured program has been designed for the operative nurse who is interested in this procedure and wants to take the initiative in coordinating the lymphatic mapping procedure for the operating room. This specially structured course will allow the operating room nurses to become familiar with lymphatic mapping procedure.

Educational Objectives: Upon completion of this program, participants should be able to:

1: Understand the background, rationale, current experience and the limitations of lymphatic mapping and sentinel lymph node dissection in the management of patients with breast cancer and cutaneous melanoma.

2. Demonstrate familiarity with lymphatic mapping procedure and dissection techniques.