Melanoma lymph node removal: what to expect

Lymph nodes filter fluid from nearby tissues. Melanoma cells can travel through lymph channels to nodes, but an enlarged node can also result from infection or inflammation. A sentinel lymph node biopsy samples the first node or nodes receiving drainage from a skin tumour and helps clarify spread. A larger operation may remove a group of regional nodes when cancer is confirmed or strongly suspected there. Your surgeon will explain which basin is involved, such as the neck, armpit or groin.

Before surgery, discuss medicines that affect bleeding, wound care, activity limits and whether a drain will be used. Afterward, keep the incision clean as instructed and watch for increasing redness, fluid, fever or wound separation. Swelling or a heavy feeling in the operated limb can occur when lymph drainage is altered; early advice from the surgical team or a lymphoedema specialist can help. The pathology report is used with scans and the original tumour findings to plan further care, which may include immunotherapy or surveillance.

Contact the surgical team promptly for worsening pain, spreading redness, pus, fever, persistent bleeding, a suddenly swollen limb or difficulty moving the nearby joint. Emergency care is appropriate for breathlessness, chest pain, fainting or sudden neurological symptoms. Do not wait for a routine appointment if these develop.

Ask whether the planned procedure is a sentinel biopsy or removal of a wider node group, what the pathology could change, how the incision will be closed, and when normal movement can resume. Ask about drain care, swelling prevention, scar support, warning signs and the timing of follow-up after cancer treatment.