Controlled introduction of the sentinel node biopsy in breast cancer in a multi-centre setting: the role of a coordinator for quality control

Aims: It is proposed that sentinel node biopsy should replace axillary lymp h-node dissection. We analysed the role of a coordinator in the introductio n of the sentinel node biopsy in breast cancer in a multi-centre setting to assure standardization and quality control. Methods: We included 232 operable breast cancer patients. Part of the proce dure was an ultrasound examination of the axilla with fine needle aspiratio n cytology. The sentinel node was identified with 99m-Technetium and Patent Blue. Results: The results of the procedure, sensitivity and false negativity, we re the same for the three participating hospitals. We think this is mostly due to the coordinator who supplied information about the technique, pitfal ls and results to all teams. Conclusions: Our experience regarding the organization aspects of introduci ng the sentinel node procedure in a multicentre setting now serves as a mod el in organizing its application in a much wider number of hospitals. (C) 2 000 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.