Our Summary

This research paper discusses the complications that may occur after breast cancer surgery. These complications could involve problems such as fluid accumulation, infection, blood clots, tissue death, wound reopening, lasting pain after surgery, disease affecting the veins, fat tissue death, and a decrease in the sense of touch following a mastectomy. Complications may also occur after surgery on the armpit area, which could include fluid buildup, infection, swelling due to fluid blockage, nerve damage, and limited movement in the shoulder or arm. The likelihood of complications from armpit surgery could be influenced by the type of breast surgery that was performed. The paper also discusses how to manage these complications after breast cancer surgery and armpit surgery, excluding any procedures related to reconstruction.

FAQs

  1. What are some potential postoperative complications related to breast cancer surgery?
  2. How can the type of breast surgery performed confound the overall rate of complications related to axillary surgery?
  3. What are some potential complications related to axillary surgery following breast cancer surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about mastectomy is to carefully follow postoperative care instructions to reduce the risk of complications such as seroma, infection, and wound dehiscence. It is important to keep the surgical site clean and dry, avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity, and attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. Additionally, discussing any concerns or symptoms with your doctor promptly can help prevent and address potential issues.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended mastectomy include those with:

  • Early-stage breast cancer that is large in size relative to the breast
  • Presence of multiple tumors in the same breast
  • Genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2
  • Previous radiation therapy to the chest
  • Inflammatory breast cancer
  • Recurrent breast cancer after previous lumpectomy and radiation therapy
  • Patient preference for mastectomy over breast-conserving surgery
  • History of breast cancer in the opposite breast
  • Unable to undergo radiation therapy after lumpectomy

It is important for patients to discuss with their healthcare team the risks and benefits of mastectomy in their specific situation.

Timeline

  • Patient is diagnosed with breast cancer and consults with healthcare providers to discuss treatment options
  • Patient undergoes preoperative evaluation, including imaging studies and blood tests
  • Patient schedules mastectomy surgery with a breast surgeon
  • Patient undergoes mastectomy surgery, which involves removal of breast tissue
  • Patient may also undergo axillary surgery to remove lymph nodes
  • After surgery, patient is monitored for potential complications such as seroma, infection, hematoma, and wound dehiscence
  • Patient may experience reduced tactile sensation in the chest area after mastectomy
  • Patient may also experience lymphedema and reduced shoulder/arm mobility after axillary surgery
  • Patient may undergo additional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy
  • Patient receives follow-up care to monitor for recurrence of cancer and to address any ongoing side effects or complications from surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about mastectomy include:

  1. What are the potential complications or side effects of mastectomy surgery?
  2. How can I reduce my risk of developing complications after mastectomy?
  3. How long is the recovery process after mastectomy and what can I expect during this time?
  4. Are there any specific postoperative care instructions I should follow to promote healing and prevent complications?
  5. What signs or symptoms should I watch for that may indicate a complication after mastectomy?
  6. How will mastectomy impact my daily activities and lifestyle, such as exercise and work?
  7. Are there any long-term effects of mastectomy that I should be aware of?
  8. Will I need any additional treatments or follow-up care after mastectomy to monitor for complications or manage any side effects?
  9. What support or resources are available to me during the recovery process and beyond?
  10. Can you provide me with more information about the specific risks and benefits of mastectomy in my individual case?

Reference

Authors: Al-Hilli Z, Wilkerson A. Journal: Surg Clin North Am. 2021 Oct;101(5):845-863. doi: 10.1016/j.suc.2021.06.014. Epub 2021 Aug 7. PMID: 34537147