Motion restriction and axillary web syndrome after sentinel node biopsy and axillary clearance in breast cancer.
BACKGROUND
We evaluated the prevalence of motion restriction and axillary web syndrome (AWS) after sentinel node biopsy (SNB) and axillary clearance (AC) in a prospective study. AWS is a self-limiting cause of early postoperative morbidity after axillary surgery. Limited range of motion associated with palpable cords of tissue in the axilla are typical for AWS.


METHODS
Altogether 85 breast cancer patients who underwent SNB only (49 patients) or SNB and AC (36 patients) were examined before and after surgery. The range of shoulder flexion and abduction and the presence of AWS were registered.


RESULTS
The range of shoulder movements was restricted in 24 (45%) patients after SNB only and in 31 (86%) patients who also underwent AC (P = 0.002). AWS was encountered in 10 (20%) patients with SNB and in 26 (72%) with AC (P <0.00005).


CONCLUSIONS
In the SNB group, significantly less early postoperative morbidity was observed.
Leidenius
Marjut
M
Breast Surgery Unit, Maria Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital, Lapinlahdenkatu 16, FIN-00180 Helsinki, Finland. marjut.leidenius@hus.fi
Leppänen
Esa
E
Krogerus
Leena
L
von Smitten
Karl
K
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001365:Axilla / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008197:Lymph Node Excision; D008207:Lymphatic Metastasis; D015412:Mastectomy, Segmental; D008875:Middle Aged; D009069:Movement Disorders / Q000209:etiology*; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D021701:Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D013577:Syndrome