Use of gamma detecting probe and isosulphan blue to localize sentinel node in patients with malignant melanoma

Elective lymph node dissection for patients with malignant melanoma remains controversial. Sentinel lymph node sampling has been recommended to select patients who will benefit from lymphadenectomy. Vital blue dye and a gamma detecting probe have been used to identify the sentinel node. Two patients are described in whom microscopic disease was identified in the sentinel node as the sole focus of metastasis. The ability to excise the sentinel node provides accurate pathologic and staging information, is cost effective, and minimizes the morbidity associated with a routinely performed lymphadenectomy.