Why does lymphedema occur in some women after surgery for breast cancer?
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If breast cancer cells are detected in the lymph nodes under the arm, the lymph nodes may be removed in order to prevent recurrence of the cancer (called lymph node dissection). When the normal pathway of lymph drainage is removed, sometimes the lymph fluid is unable to find another adequate path, causing the fluid to back up in the arm.
If breast cancer cells are detected in the lymph nodes under the arm, the lymph nodes may be removed in order to prevent recurrence of the cancer (called lymph node dissection). When the normal pathway of lymph drainage is removed, sometimes the... More
