Using the axillary reverse mapping technique to screen breast cancer patients with a high risk of lymphedema.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Preventing breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) by preserving upper lymphatic drainage is still controversial. Our study aimed to use the axillary reverse mapping (ARM) technique in patients who underwent axillary surgery to analyse the correlation between postoperative residual ARM nodes and the occurrence of lymphedema, select candidates at high risk of developing lymphedema, and analyse the oncologic safety of ARM nodes.

Methods

Patients undergoing sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) or axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) from October 2015 to February 2016 at the Peking University People's Hospital Breast Center were prospectively recruited for the study. ARM was performed in all patients before surgery. ARM nodes were separated from SLNB and ALND specimens.

SUBMITTER: Liu S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7265626 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature