Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping in Esophageal Cancer using ICG Dye and NIR Imaging
This phase II trial investigates whether a surgical planning method called sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping, using dye and a special camera, can help surgeons find lymph nodes that are most likely to harbor cancer cells in patients with stage I-IVA esophageal or gastroesophageal junction cancer who are scheduled to undergo surgery. SLN mapping identifies the first lymph node where cancer is most likely to spread from its initial location. The mapping process involves the injection of a dye called indocyanine green solution (ICG) that makes it easier to see lymphatic spreading with a camera that uses near-infrared light (NIR imaging). Using SLN mapping may help surgeons identify the affected lymph nodes that may not have been found using the usual approach, and remove them. This could help control the spread of cancer and improve surgical outcomes.