The incidence and risk factors of related lymphedema for breast cancer survivors post-operation: a 2-year follow-up prospective cohort study

Abstract

BCRL is a common complication for breast cancer patients after surgery. It can be fairly diagnosed only 1 month post-operation and the cumulative incidence of BCRL seems to be increasing over time, especially in the first year after surgery. ALND, radiotherapy, MRM, the number of positive axillary lymph nodes and BMI were found to be independent risk factors in the development of BCRL in this study.

Late locoregional complications associated with adjuvant radiotherapy in the treatment of breast cancer: Systematic review and meta‐analysis

“…Results of this study corroborate those in prior literature, demonstrating higher chances of lymphedema in groups treated by surgery and RT compared to the group submitted to exclusive surgical treatment . Fergusson et al appropriately warns about possible sampling bias, since it is not clear how the women were included in the comparison groups.…”

“…52,53 Results of this study corroborate those in prior literature, demonstrating higher chances of lymphedema in groups treated by surgery and RT compared to the group submitted to exclusive surgical treatment. 47,48 Fergusson et al 16 RT had a higher risk of developing capsular contracture level III/IV than those who were submitted to surgery only, however, Baker classification was the main method used in the studies, this review included prospective and retrospective studies. 55 In addition, Bachour et al, 56 assessing the risk factors for developing capsular contracture, describe as a limitation the inconsistency for comparing results because the lack of standardization in this classification.…”

Long‐Term Effects of Breast Cancer Surgery, Treatment, and Survivor Care

“…Lymphedema can lead to significant difficulty with normal activities. It can worsen pain, physical and mental health, quality of life, and survivability, causing tremendous distress in breast cancer survivors …”

A descriptive study on arm/shoulder problems and its correlation with quality of mastectomy scar

“…ASPs are defined as lymphedema, restricted shoulder mobility (ROM), and/or arm/shoulder pain. Multiple studies in literature have reported the prevalence of ROM to be 22%‐33%, lymphedema 15%‐47%, and arm/shoulder pain 22%‐48% …”

“…Multiple studies in literature have reported the prevalence of ROM to be 22%-33%, lymphedema 15%-47%, and arm/shoulder pain 22%-48%. [1][2][3] Post-mastectomy scars can affect arm shoulder function due to either scar contracture and radiation-induced fibrosis or unfavorable placement on the chest wall. However, this association has not been studied so far.…”