Sentinel lymph node identification with magnetic nanoparticles

Abstract

Contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) was used for SLNB in breast cancer, and not in colorectal cancer. The technique uses a microbubble tracer for the visualization of afferent lymphatic vessels and SLNs. With an excellent penetration depth, CEUS can be used for preoperative transcutaneous localization of the SLNs. A unique property of the technique is that it allows to perform ultrasound guided targeted biopsy of the SLNs, potentially We have demonstrated that the use of a magnetic nanoparticle tracer is technically feasible using a non-clinically applicable magnetometer [45]. Further clinical studies are needed to demonstrate the feasibility of the technique in a routine clinical workflow.