Sentinel lymph node technique for breast cancer: radiation safety issues.

The radiation safety issues in the application of radioguided sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy are discussed, particularly the effective dose (ED) for patients undergoing lymphoscintigraphy by taking into account both the internal emission and the external transmission dose. The quantitative result can be compared with other common radiological examinations. Whole body and finger doses of surgical and pathology staff were determined by direct measurement using high-sensitivity thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) and compared with the annual dose limits recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). These dosimetric observations for personnel also provide reference information to implement guidelines for the safe handling, storage, and transport of radioactive specimens at all stages of the radioguided surgery effort in order to maintain good work practices while dealing with unsealed radioactive substances.