What is the Gamma Probe and Its Role in Cancer Surgery?
Discover how gamma probes enhance cancer surgery by improving tissue identification during lymph node biopsies.
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Gamma probes are medical devices used in nuclear medicine to detect gamma radiation, primarily aiding in sentinel lymph node biopsies and tumor localization. They help surgeons identify and remove cancerous tissues more accurately, improving patient outcomes and reducing unnecessary tissue removal.
FAQs & Answers
- How does a gamma probe work? A gamma probe detects gamma radiation emitted from radioactive tracers injected into the patient, aiding surgeons in real-time during procedures.
- What is a sentinel lymph node biopsy? A sentinel lymph node biopsy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the first few lymph nodes that drain a tumor to check for cancer spread.
- What are the benefits of using a gamma probe? Using a gamma probe improves accuracy in identifying cancerous tissues, leading to better patient outcomes and less unnecessary tissue removal.