Abstract: Sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping has been proposed as a more “targeted” alternative for accurate lymph node resection in endometrial cancer (EC). However, there are still some problems and disputes to be resolved. For example, the standard clinical application of SLN mapping in high-risk patients, the optimal SLN algorithm, the optimal approach to evaluate SLN and the clinical significance of low volume metastasis (LVM) are worth exploring. At present, the cervical indocyanine green injection is the most commonly used tracer method, and the detection rate of LVM can be improved by ultrastaging. However, the procedures and indications of ultrastaging and clinical management of LVM need to be further standardized. In addition, high-risk EC is not an absolute contraindication for SLN mapping, however, the standard clinical application of SLN mapping in such patients needs further clinical study. This article reviewed the research status and progress of SLN mapping in EC in recent years.

Key words: Endometrial cancer, Sentinel lymph node, Micrometastasis, Ultrastaging