The application of sentinel lymph node mapping in colon cancer.

Lymph node status is the most important prognostic factor for colorectal carcinoma. Complete lymph node dissection has historically been an integral part of the surgical treatment of these diseases. Sentinel lymph node mapping is a newer technology that allows selective removal of the first node draining a tumor. Sentinel node mapping is well accepted for the management of breast carcinoma and cutaneous melanoma, and has resulted in reduced morbidity without adversely affecting survival. Sentinel node mapping is currently being investigated for treatment of colorectal cancers. Recent studies show promise for incorporating the sentinel node mapping technique for treatment of several gastrointestinal malignancies.