AXILLARY DISSECTION
What is an axillary dissection?
Axillary dissection, also known as axillary clearance, involves removal of most or all of the nodes (usually 10 to 20 nodes). It is usually recommended when cancer is found in the lymph nodes on imaging and biopsy before surgery.
What is involved in an axillary dissection?
The operation is performed under general anaesthesia. An incision is made under the armpit. The lymph nodes, which can range from 10 to 40, are removed. A drain is routinely inserted. The incision is closed with dissolvable sutures. A overnight stay in hospital is required.
What are the risks of an axillary dissection?
All surgery has risks despite the highest standard of practice. The following possible complications are listed to inform not to alarm. There may be other complications that are not listed.
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Seroma, a build-up of fluid in the cavity where the tissue has been removed. Sometimes it can cause a swelling and the fluid may need to be removed with a needle and syringe.
- Scarring
- Numbness in the armpit, upper arm and shoulder area
- Shoulder stiffness
- Lymphoedema
L-Dex Measurement
Lymph node surgery can increase the risk of lymphoedema. L-Dex measurement is a simple, non-invasive test that measures fluid levels in the arm and can detect early changes before swelling or other visible signs develop. Early detection allows prompt treatment, which may help reduce the risk of developing chronic lymphoedema. Patients who require lymph node surgery are referred for L-Dex measurement and ongoing lymphoedema monitoring to ensure any changes are detected and managed early.
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