Potential complications associated with axillary lymph node dissection
Even though ALND is considered effective and may be necessary to help prevent the further spread of breast cancer. It is a major surgery and just like any other, there are some risks and side effects that come with it. A clinical study discovered that side effects occur in 42 percent of ALND, but these side effects also ranged from minor to severe.
A major possible risk the removal of lymph nodes may cause is lymphedema [6]. This is a condition that occurs as a result of lymph fluid that collects in the area where lymph nodes used to be.
Take note of these signs of lymphedema:
- swelling
- tenderness
- redness
- numbness or tingling
- fever
- leathery skin
- loss of movement in your arm(s)
You may start to see these signs just some moments after your surgery, or it can develop several months or years later.
Other potential side effects from an ALND include:
- Infections
- Bleeding
- Fluid retain under your arms
- Feeling numb in your arm
- Inflammation in the arm vein
- Blood clots
Reach out to your doctor as soon as you start to notice any of these symptoms following your surgery.