Ethics in sentinel node biopsy in breast cancer: an open question.

The sentinel node concept agrees with the modern principles of surgical oncology in breast cancer, which are related to lymphatic dissection, accurate axillary study, and less traumatic surgery. After publication of many series, it has proven its capacity to correctly stage axilla and select patients who need axillary dissection. The Brazilian Society of Senology established the current norms for its practice. However, the transportation of new surgical techniques from research to practice always occurs with some ethical dilemmas related to its introduction in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to analyze the ethical challenges of the sentinel node technique and problems with its implementation.