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Removal of
Lymph Nodes
Whether you have a
lumpectomy or mastectomy, your surgeon will probably remove
some of the lymph nodes under your arm. This procedure is
usually done at the same time as the breast surgery to check
if the cancer has spread outside the breast. Clear lymph nodes
are reported as negative nodes. If cancer is found, you have
positive nodes. Your doctor will talk with you about any
additional treatments needed to destroy and control cancer
cells.
Lymphedema
The lymph nodes
under your arm drain lymph fluid from your chest and arm. Both
surgery and radiation therapy can change the normal drainage
pattern. This can result in a swelling of the arm called
lymphedema. The problem can develop right after surgery or
months to years later.
Treatment of
lymphedema depends on how serious the problem becomes. Options
include an elastic sleeve, an arm pump, arm massage, and
bandaging the arm. Exercise and diet also are important. If
you have this problem, talk with your doctor and see a
physical therapist as soon as possible. Many hospitals and
breast clinics offer help with lymphedema. There is no cure
for this condition, so you should do what you can to prevent
it.
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
Surgeons are
investigating a new procedure in cancer patients used to
detect lymph node involvement. In this procedure, either a
blue dye or a small amount of radioactive material is injected
around the tumor site. The surgeon performs a small incision
in the axillary underarm area looking for a lymph node
containing the blue dye or uses a scanner to locate the
radioactive material. The lymph node(s) where the dye first
accumulates after leaving the tumor region is called the
"sentinel node(s)." This node(s) is then surgically
removed and examined by a pathologist. If it is positive for
cancer cells, then the rest of the nodes are usually removed;
if it is negative, the remaining lymph nodes may not have to
be removed.
After underarm
lymph nodes are removed, your arm will have to be protected
for the rest of your life.
* To help prevent or control lymphedema and to protect your
arm after treatment:
* Carry packages or handbags on the other arm or shoulder.
* Avoid sunburns and burns to your affected arm and hand.
* Have shots (including chemotherapy), blood draws, and blood
pressure tests done on the other arm.
* Avoid cuts when shaving underarms; use an electric shaver.
* Wash cuts promptly, apply antibacterial medication, and
cover with a bandage. Call your doctor if you think that you
have an infection.
* Wear gloves to protect your hands when gardening and when
using strong detergents.
* Avoid wearing tight jewelry on your affected arm; avoid
elastic cuffs on blouses and nightgowns.
* Have careful manicures; avoid cutting your cuticles.
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