Localization of the sentinel lymph node in tongue VX2 carcinoma via indirect CT lymphography combined with methylene blue dye injection

Conclusions: Indirect computed tomography lymphography (CT-LG) combined with blue dye injection can locate the sentinel lymph node (SLN) in tongue carcinoma. Objective: To localize the SLN in tongue VX2 carcinoma using indirect CT-LG combined with methylene blue injection. Methods: Eighteen rabbits were placed into three groups: metastasis, hyperplasia, and control. Indirect CT-LG was performed with an iohexol injection into the tongue submucosa. CT images were acquired at 1, 5, and 15 min after injection. Methylene blue was injected into the same area 24 h after indirect CT-LG, followed by SLN identification and histopathological examination. Results: SLNs were visualized with an identification rate of 100%. SLN location identified using CT lymphography was confirmed by methylene blue dye. Control and hyperplastic enhanced SLNs were round or oval without any filling defects. Control rabbits had enhanced SLN attenuation values of 689.2 ± 55.4 HU, 278.4 ± 33.5 HU, and 71.7 ± 9.2 HU at 1, 5, and 15 min afte...