Evaluation of muscle atrophy after axillary lymph node dissection

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Surgical Oncology
• Breast Cancer Research

Background:

• Axillary lymph node status is crucial for breast cancer prognosis, making axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) a standard procedure.
• Postoperative complications following ALND are common, necessitating objective assessment of nerve damage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To objectively quantify the extent of nerve and muscle damage resulting from axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) in breast cancer patients.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 50 breast cancer patients undergoing ALND were assessed, with the non-operated side serving as a control.
• Postoperative evaluations included anatomical and functional examinations at least 6 months after surgery.
• Computed tomography was used to measure the thickness of the latissimus dorsi (MLD), pectoralis major (MPM), and serratus anterior (MSA) muscles.

Main Results:

• While muscles remained intact and functional, 64% of operated patients experienced hypoesthesia (reduced sensation).
• Muscles (MLD, MPM, MSA) were significantly thinner in the operated group compared to the non-operated control group.
• Sensory deficits were noted, particularly in the upper medial arm, indicating intercostobrachial nerve involvement.

Conclusions:

• Axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) leads to a significant reduction in the thickness of the M. latissimus dorsi, M. pectoralis major, and M. serratus anterior.
• Sensory deficits, especially in the upper medial arm, confirm damage to intercostobrachial nerves following ALND.