Axillary node dissection is a surgical procedure to remove lymph nodes located in the armpit, known as axillary lymph nodes.
Axillary Node Dissection
$5,670
$5,670
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Axillary Node Dissection Procedure
Axillary node dissection is a surgical procedure to remove lymph nodes located in the armpit, known as axillary lymph nodes. This procedure is most commonly performed on breast cancer patients to determine whether cancer has spread from the initial tumor site. Cancer cells often use lymph nodes to travel throughout the body, and when they get stuck they can become enlarged. The goal of this procedure is to collect between 5 to 30 lymph nodes to gather valuable information about if and how the cancer has spread. For women who have been diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, this procedure is often accompanied by a mastectomy.
When is This Procedure Necessary?
Axillary node dissection is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of lymph nodes from the armpit area for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. It is typically performed in cases where there is suspicion or confirmation of breast cancer, particularly when there is evidence of cancer spread to the lymph nodes. This procedure helps determine the extent and stage of cancer, as well as guide further treatment decisions such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The decision to undergo this procedure is generally a mutual agreement between the doctor and the patient.
What To Expect
Patients will be under local or general anesthesia to ensure their comfort throughout the procedure. The surgeon will begin by making a small incision to access Level I and Level II of the lymph nodes, then remove 5-30 lymph nodes. When the goal of the procedure has been achieved, the surgeon will close the incision, and the patient will be removed from the anesthesia.
The recovery process following this type of surgery can be complex and lengthy, as it involves managing potential side effects such as pain, swelling, decreased range of motion, and increased risk of infection. Patients may experience difficulty performing daily activities like dressing and bathing due to limited arm mobility. Physical therapy and exercise are essential components of post-operative care to improve strength and flexibility in the affected arm.
Axillary Node Dissection with Smith Medical
At Smith Medical, we understand the complexities of healthcare. Today, many procedures and treatments are unattainable due to their lofty price. The average cost of this is a number that a limited amount of the population can afford. Therefore, it is Smith Medical’s mission to provide our patients with the accessible, transparent, and quality care they deserve.
Contact the team at Smith Medical to learn more today.
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