Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 13, 2026

Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study
Published on: February 2, 2017
Axillary web syndrome assessment using a self-assessment questionnaire: a prospective cohort study
F Baggi1, Luiz Felipe Nevola Teixeira2, S Gandini3
1Physiotherapy Department, European Institute of Oncology, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141, Milan, Italy.
Axillary web syndrome (AWS) affects over half of breast cancer patients post-surgery, often appearing within 4 weeks. Younger, normal-weight patients experienced higher detection rates, indicating a need for extended monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Complications
- Rehabilitation
Background:
- Breast cancer surgery can lead to axillary web syndrome (AWS), characterized by fibrotic cords in the arm.
- Current diagnosis relies on physical evaluation, necessitating improved early detection methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the incidence and enable early detection of axillary web syndrome (AWS) in breast cancer patients.
- To identify patient factors associated with AWS development and persistence.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 370 breast cancer patients was monitored from July 2013 to July 2014.
- Self-assessment questionnaires were utilized for early AWS detection.
- Statistical analyses (univariate and multivariate) identified associations between patient demographics, BMI, and AWS.
Main Results:
- Axillary web syndrome (AWS) incidence was 51.1%, with 94.1% of cases appearing within 4 weeks post-surgery.
- 43.5% of patients did not recover within 8 weeks.
- Younger age (<50 years) and normal BMI (≤25) were significantly associated with higher AWS detection.
Conclusions:
- Axillary web syndrome (AWS) is a common complication following breast cancer surgery, particularly in the initial post-operative month.
- Extended follow-up and evaluation are recommended due to delayed recovery in some patients.
- Younger patients and those with normal weight require particular attention for AWS monitoring.
Related Concept Videos
Nephrotic Syndrome II : Assessment and Medical Management
Assessment of the Mouth
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies
Assessment of Respiration
Subjective Assessment: Nurses interview the patient to gather information directly during the subjective assessment. It includes questions about the individual's medical history, medications, and symptoms, focusing on past respiratory conditions like...
Nursing Assessment
The nurse collects all aspects of the patient's health in the initial assessment, establishing priorities for ongoing focused assessments...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-IV: Assessement and Diagnostic Studies
Medical History

