The Sentinel Node Biopsy is alternative to the Axillary Lymph Node Dissection. During surgery, a blue dye is injected into and around the tumor. The lymphatic fluid in that area carries the dye to the first node in its path - the sentinel node. That single node is removed and examined for evidence of cancer. If no cancer cells are found, the surgeon can assume that the other nodes are free of cancer as well.
Chemotherapy is a medication used to help keep breast cancer from returning.
It can be given before surgery, after surgery or on its own. Chemotherapy is often used for tumors that are large or aggressive. It is also used for cancers that have spread to the lymph nodes or some other part of the body. The medication can cause side effects. It is usually given intravenous or in pill form.