The positive sentinel node.

The management of the axilla has become a topic of debate with the introduction of sentinel node excision. Comparisons between sentinel node biopsy and axillary dissection have shifted from histologic staging to regional recurrence rates. Advances in adjuvant therapy have occurred during this time period and likely represent a contributing factor to explain equivalent or improved regional recurrence rates following excision of positive sentinel nodes alone as compared to axillary dissection in selected patients.