Breast lumps: lymphoedema as post-operative complication

BREAST LUMPS: LYMPHOEDEMA AS POST-OPERATIVE COMPLICATION

Water and protein leak constantly from the blood vessels and tissues of the body, and are drained away in the lymphatic vessels. A network of small lymphatic vessels links up with deeper, larger ones in the groin and under the arms, and it is at these sites that the lymph is filtered through lymph nodes, or glands. The filtered fluid then drains into large veins, finally leaving the body in the urine. When the lymph nodes are removed, or the lymphatic vessels are damaged during a breast operation, the lymph may not be able to drain away, and swelling - known as lymphoedema - of the arm may occur. When it does so, it is difficult to treat. Severe lymphoedema can be a distressing and debilitating condition.

Symptoms and signs
Lymphoedema can be a severe and sometimes extremely debilitating condition, and the first signs of it - for example tightening of a watch strap or rings - should be reported to your doctor or breast care nurse immediately so that treatment has a better chance of being effective.
Redness and soreness of the arm may be a sign of infection of the surface tissues (cellulitis), and if this develops it will require early treatment with antibiotics. Infection in a swollen arm may be followed by inflammation of a vein or the lymphatic vessels -conditions known as thrombophlebitis and lymphangitis. It is therefore important to take care to avoid injury to the arm on the affected side of your body.
A swollen arm can cause discomfort and a feeling of tightness, but if you develop any of the following symptoms or signs, you should contact your doctor:
* numbness or pins and needles in a swollen arm,
* sharp, stabbing pains,
* a burning sensation or extreme tenderness,
* weakness in the arm or a sudden inability to grip.

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