Preoperative axillary sonography in breast cancer: Value of the method when done routinely

Aim To evaluate the significance of routinely performed preoperative axillary sonography in breast cancer patients. Method 191 patients with surgical treated breast cancer were analysed retrospectively. 74 patients of these had an axillary sonography done by 5 different examiners. Results For detecting lymph node metastases sensitivity was 68.2% in all T-stages and 50% in T1-stages with a specificity of 100%. Classification of the axillary status (positive or negative for lymph node metastases) is possible in 90.5% for all T-stages and 94.9% for T1-stages. Microscopic and small lymph node metastases are missed by ultrasound. Compared to axillary palpation, sonography is better. Conclusion Preoperative axillary sonography is an useful diagnostic method even when done routinely. If further criteria are considered, axillary dissection could be avoided in some patients.