Preventive axillary lymphovenous anastomoses simultaneously with lymph node dissection in the treatment of breast cancer for prevention of lymphedema of the upper limb (LYMPHA technique)

Abstract

To analyze the effect the LYMPHA technique on the incidence of upper limb lymphedema in patients with breast cancer after complete axillary lymph node dissection. There were 89 patients with breast cancer and signs of metastatic lesion of axillary lymph nodes who underwent complete axillary lymph dissection. In group 1 (41 patients), the LYMPHA technique was used simultaneously with lymph node dissection; in group 2 (48 patients) - lymph node dissection alone. The follow-up period was 1 year. The LYMPHA technique prolonged surgery and decreased duration of postoperative lymphorrhea. The incidence of upper limb lymphedema was 9.8% and 22.9%, respectively. The LYMPHA technique was effective for prevention of upper limb lymphedema after complete axillary lymph node dissection in the treatment of breast cancer.