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The Effect Of Apical Axillary Lymph Node Dissection On The Incidence Of Upper Arm Lymphedema, Ahmed S. Elgammal, Ahmed A. Fawzy, Mohammed N. S. Nassar

Menoufia Medical Journal

Objectives The aim of this study is to determine the relation between apical axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) and upper arm lymphedema in patients with breast cancer. Background Lymphedema is a swelling that occurs when protein-rich lymph fluid accumulates in the interstitial tissue, and it is the most common complication following axillary dissection. This lymph fluid may contain plasma proteins, extravascular blood cells, excess water, and parenchymal products. Few studies have discussed ALND levels as a possible risk factor of upper arm lymphedema. Patients and methods This is a prospective clinical study that included 70 women with well-established diagnosis of …