is the test SNB still effective after excision?

[Britanniagal]

Hi, thanks for the greatly appreciated information about the SNB, however, I am still unsure whether or not the test is rendered ineffective due to my prior excision.
One surgeon says it can still be done, the other says that the lump removal (6 weeks ago)means that I have to undergo axillary dissection BECAUSE the test will no longer provide accurate results.
what are the current thoughts on the accuracy of SNB after lump removal? (path. has indicated need for further excision)

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear britanniagal, Technically SLNB can be done after lumpectomy (the dye is injected into the bed of where the lump was removed). However, in your case, it would not be recommended being done without accompanying lymph node dissection(LND)because the size of the lump was 2cm, axillary LND would be recommended so as to more accurately assess the lymph nodes.  One of the concerns about SLNB alone would be the possibility of cancer cells skipping the SLN and being found in another of the lymph nodes in the axilla.  The possibility of this is greater in tumors greater than 2cm in size.

[mobetsis]

My sister is scheduled to have a radical mastectomy on Octber 31st. Can you please tell me, what is the normal procedure for having a bone scan and a CAT scan done? Is it done before the surgery or after the surgery? They will be doing breast augmentation at the same time, and I seem to remember my Mother having the scan done before her surgery. Also, who orders the tests? Is it her Doctor, Surgeon or another Specialist?
We are very concerned about this issue. Any other insight you can give me would be greately appreciated. Thank you so much!

[surgeon]

please see my comment which I added to your original posting regarding the issue of SNB, below.