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The thread posed by Lymphedema for breast cancer surgery patients

By 3 September 2021Articles

With any operation come various risks and complications that are hard to prepare for,  but a preoperative assessment, a precise technique, hemostasis, and wound closure can all help to reduce the risk of possible complications.

When it comes to breast cancer surgery, Lymphedema poses as a potential complication. You can find more information about breast cancer surgery and lymphedema at: Breast Cancer Surgical Treatment Complications & Lymphedema

Lymphedema is caused by a defect in the lymphatic system, which results in an excessive build-up of interstitial fluid, which is the fluid that creates lymph. Severe lymphedema leads to persistent, frequently excruciating arm swelling, which results in pain, reduced function, a worse quality of life, and aesthetic deformities.

Due to its chronic nature and the lack of established long-term therapeutic options, the development of lymphedema is arguably the most dreaded consequence after breast cancer surgery for both patients and surgeons.

Although there is treatment for lymphedema that is effective, early diagnosis is a critical part of that, since therapy is most successful when lymphedema is detected early. Every patient suffering with this condition should be able to get established and efficient treatment, regardless of Lymphedema having no cure, since it may be controlled successfully, when recognised and treated appropriately.

Lymphedema is a lifetime threat that does not lessen with time. Recurrent infections, non-healing wounds, discomfort or pain, trouble with everyday chores, and emotional and social anguish all contribute to the progression of this condition.

In post-mastectomy patients chronic lymphedema has the potential to become a permanent and progressive disease. If left untreated, the disease can become very resistant to treatment and, in most circumstances, cannot be entirely alleviated by medical or surgical procedures.

If it is not treated, lymphedema causes persistent inflammation, infection, and skin hardening, which leads to additional damage to lymph vessels and alteration of the contour of afflicted body parts.

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) massage in an effective component of the treatment and control of lymphedema. If you are interested in booking an appointment, please contact us at Salus Wellness Clinics for free advice and to explore possible solutions we can offer.

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