What should you know about lumpectomy with axillary node dissection?

Lumpectomy removes the known breast abnormality and a margin of nearby tissue while preserving much of the breast. An axillary node dissection removes a group of lymph nodes from the armpit. The nodes are examined to determine whether cancer cells are present and to help shape the wider treatment plan. This is different from sentinel lymph node biopsy, which samples the first draining nodes.

After node surgery, the arm and armpit may feel sore, tight, numb or swollen. Shoulder movement can be restricted for a time. A drain may be used to carry fluid away from the surgical area and is removed according to the team’s assessment. Radiotherapy may be discussed after healing and pathology review.

Tell the team about medicines, allergies, previous arm problems and any difficulty moving your shoulder. Arrange transport and practical help for the first part of recovery. Follow instructions for the incision and drain, and perform only the exercises recommended by your clinician. Protect the treated arm from strain and report persistent heaviness, tightness or swelling. Breast Cancer and Paget Disease of the Breast can have different surgical plans, so the pathology findings matter.

Call the surgical team about fever, spreading redness, drainage with an unpleasant smell, uncontrolled bleeding, a wound opening, or pain that is worsening instead of easing. Report a suddenly swollen arm, increasing tightness, or reduced hand movement. Emergency help is needed for severe breathlessness, chest pain, collapse or sudden confusion.

Ask why axillary dissection is recommended instead of sentinel node biopsy, how many nodes may be removed, and how the results affect treatment. Ask about drain care, shoulder exercises, lymphoedema monitoring, work and driving, and whether Radiotherapy or Mastectomy should be considered.