Change of upper limb function in breast cancer patients after lymph node dissection and mastectomy

-A short-term observation-

Abstract

In this study, we investigated the short-term change of upper limb function in 114 consecutive breast cancer patients who underwent lymph node dissection and mastectomy. Rehabilitation was performed both before and after surgery. Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) was used to evaluate the disabilities. Measurements were performed prior to and three months after surgery. Three months after surgery, there were more difficulties in 18 of 23 items (disability) than before surgery, and more symptoms with 5 of 7 items (symptoms) (p<0.05). Therefore, postoperative breast cancer patients need routine upper limb function evaluation and rehabilitation, even after discharge.