EP182/#1149 SLN performed by surgeons in training is a feasible and reproducible technique. (4th December 2022) - Lyria, Rossini
Abstract : Objectives: To evaluate the results of sentinel lymph node research performed by physicians in training under the supervision of a qualified preceptor. Methods: This is a prospective Phase II trial including all consecutive early endometrial and cervical cancer patients, older than 18yo, from January 2016 to May 2022. All surgical procedures were performed by surgeons in training, under the supervision of a qualified preceptor. SLN detection was performed with blue dye or ICG, preferably combined with a radiotracer/Technetium (availability). Results: 284 patients were included (130 cervical and 154 endometrial cancer). 185 (65.1%) underwent laparoscopy, 88 (31%) laparotomy, and 11 (3.9%) robotic surgery. Lymphadenectomy was performed in 149 (52.4%) cases: 122 (82%) bilateral and 16 (11%) unilateral pelvic, and 11 (7%) pelvic and paraaortic. Lymphoscintigraphy was performed in 122 patients (122/284), with a 75% detection rate with the gamma probe (91/122). Detection rate was 73.3% (208/284) with blue dye, 69.7% (145/208) bilateral. ICG was introduced in May/2021, and 38 patients were included, 31 in combination with Technetium, with 95% (36/38) bilateral and 5% (2/38) unilateral detection rates. There were no Grade 3–4 complications in 30 POD. Conclusions: In this Phase II trial, SLN biopsy performed by surgeons in training is feasible, reproducible, and may achieve excellent detection rates, mainly when ICG was combined with Technetium.