NMC Royal Hospital DIP revolutionizing breast cancer surgery in the UAE with Sentimag system
- Last updated: June 11, 2025 | 08:50
In a significant advancement for breast cancer treatment in the UAE, NMC Royal Hospital DIP has successfully performed its first breast cancer surgery using the Sentimag system, a cutting-edge, radiation-free technology for sentinel lymph node localization - marking a major milestone in surgical innovation in the country.
The procedure, a first across the entire NMC Healthcare network, was performed at the hospital’s dedicated Breast Cancer Clinic by Dr. Afaf Sahraoui, Specialist in Breast, Thyroid, and Parathyroid Surgery, and certified by the Norwegian Health Board. The Sentimag system replaces the conventional use of radioactive tracers and blue dye with a safe, magnetic alternative, enhancing both patient safety and surgical precision.
In modern surgical breast cancer surgery, sentinel lymph node biopsy is a crucial step used to determine whether cancer has spread beyond the tumour. Traditionally, this process involves the use of radioactive isotopes and blue dye to locate sentinel lymph nodes which are methods that can pose risks such as radiation exposure, potential allergic reactions and complex logistical challenges due to strict timing of tracer injections.
The Sentimag system offers a breakthrough alternative by replacing radioactive tracers and blue dye with a safe, non-radioactive technique. It uses Magtrace, a liquid solution containing magnetic nanoparticles administered before surgery. During the procedure, a handheld probe is used to detect magnetic signals and accurately locate and remove the sentinel lymph node. The same system can also deploy Magseed, a tiny magnetic marker used to localise nonpalpable breast tumours (those not detectable by touch), eliminating the need for traditional guidewires.
The first patient to undergo surgery using Sentimag at NMC Royal Hospital DIP was a 47-year-old woman diagnosed with a 26mm invasive breast carcinoma, a malignant tumour that had spread beyond the breast tissue. Following evaluation by a multidisciplinary tumour board, she was recommended for breast-conserving surgery with sentinel lymph node biopsy using the Sentimag system.
As the tumour was palpable, Magtrace alone was sufficient, and the procedure was successfully completed through a minimally invasive incision, with the sentinel nodes accurately identified and removed without complications. The technique significantly reduced recovery time, with the patient experiencing minimal discomfort and was discharged just six hours after surgery. She also showed excellent recovery at her one-week postoperative follow-up with no signs of infection.
“This technology offers a safer, more convenient, and patient-friendly advancement in breast cancer surgery,” said Dr. Afaf Sahraoui. “By eliminating the use of radiation and blue dye, we’re not only reducing risks but also simplifying the surgical process without compromising diagnostic accuracy. It’s a significant step forward for women’s health in the UAE.”
"Sentimag revolutionises sentinel lymph node surgery with a precise, radiation-free alternative,” added Dr. Shaista Meraj, Consultant Radiologist. “It expands patient access particularly in units like ours, without on-site radioisotopes. This ensures breast clinic efficiency by providing a sustainable and patient friendly alternative to radioactive tracer."
The introduction of the Sentimag system reinforces NMC Royal Hospital DIP’s commitment to innovation and patient-centred care, making it one of the first hospitals in Dubai to offer this advanced, radiation-free solution for breast cancer surgery. This breakthrough strengthens the hospital’s Breast Cancer Clinic offering and reflects NMC Healthcare’s ongoing dedication to providing world-class evidence-based treatments to patients across the country.