Lymphoedema and reduced shoulder function as indicators of quality of life after axillary lymph node dissection for invasive breast cancer.

摘要: Background: The aim was to explore measurements of arm circumference and shoulder abduction as indicators quality life after axillary lymph node dissection for invasive breast cancer. Methods: Differences in were measured 465 consecutive women who underwent dissection. These received a treatment-specific questionnaire on the severity physical disability effects their daily well-being. Results: returned by 400 (86 per cent). Of these 400, only 332 did not receive radiotherapy included analysis. Their mean time since 4.2 (range 0.3-28) years. For 86 patients (26 cent) there difference 2 cm or more, 20° more. found it more difficult do household chores, likely have given up hobbies, felt disabled be treated physiotherapist. However, complaints also occurred among with smaller differences abduction, although frequency similar those without swelling restricted abduction. Conclusion: Measuring during control visits identifies some whose well-being is affected side-effects