The Significance of Sentinel Node Analysis in Colon Cancer

The Significance of Sentinel Node Analysis in Colon Cancer

This study is for the patient with colon cancer, who is going to have colon cancer surgery. The purpose of this research study is to examine a specific lymph node, called the sentinel node. Lymph nodes are located throughout your body and cancer may spread by means of those lymph nodes. The sentinel node is the one located closest to your tumor. This study will find out if examining the sentinel node can help to predict disease progression. Since the value of this exam is unknown, taking part in this study will not change your clinical care.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All patients must consent to participate in study
• Patients will be tracked for five years
• A blood test (CEA) will be collected every six months
• A CT scan will be performed annually
• A colonoscopy will be performed at 1 and 5 years post-surgery