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Uncomfortable with procedure?

Page last modified on: September 10, 2008
Question from Maria: My surgeon wants to do a full lymph node dissection. I want the sentinel lymph node procedure. Why should I lose all my lymph nodes if I don't have to? Should I switch surgeons?
Answer —Jennifer Griggs, M.D., M.P.H.: Without knowing the details of your case, it is hard to know whether the sentinel node procedure is appropriate for you. There are some patients for whom we do not recommend the sentinel node procedure. Again, letting your surgeon know that you view this issue as a 'mismatch' may help clear the air. It is important to know that the success of the sentinel node procedure (correct identification of the sentinel node) is related to the surgeon's comfort level and experience with the procedure. Your surgeon may be more confident with a full node dissection.

On Wednesday, February 19, 2003, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called The Doctor-Patient Relationship. Jennifer Griggs, M.D., M.P.H. and Marisa Weiss, M.D. answered your questions about how to find the right doctor for you, and how to create and maintain a good, open relationship with your doctor so you can be sure to get all the care and information you need.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Jennifer Griggs, M.D., M.P.H.Jennifer Griggs, M.D., M.P.H. is a medical oncologist specializing in the treatment of breast cancer, with a a special interest in cancer survivorship, patient-physician communication, and quality of care for women with breast cancer.

Marisa Weiss, M.D. is a radiation oncologist specializing in breast cancer and the founder, president, and guiding force behind Breastcancer.org.

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