The Risk of Secondary Lymphedema due to Procedures in the Affected Arm Post-Mastectomy: A Literature Review

The risk for upper extremity lymphedema post-mastectomy in women surgically treated for breast cancer is a concern since it is often painful, aesthetically displeasing, and can increase the risk of infection. However, there is a paucity of data examining if diagnostic procedures performed in the ipsilateral arm post-mastectomy increases the risk of lymphedema. The purpose of this research is to examine the relationship between diagnostic procedures performed in the ipsilateral arm post-mastectomy and the occurrence of lymphedema with or without related complications. A systematic review of the literature was conducted from multiple, online databases available from 1992 through 2014, and included CINAHL, MedLine, PsychInfo, and ERIC. Search terms included lymphedema, breast cancer, mastectomy, blood pressure, and infection. Exclusion criteria comprised articles focused on male gender, primary lymphedema, metastases, survival, quality of life studies, reoccurrence breast cancer, breast conservation, lymphedema management, lymphedema, and lymphoma. The results of this study were inconclusive concerning a relationship between upper extremity lymphedema and procedures performed in the ipsilateral arm after mastectomy. This literature review outlines gaps in the data showing a need for more focused research on the causes of secondary lymphedema after breast cancer surgery with lymph node removal. Further research on the impact of diagnostic and other invasive procedures on the ispilateral arm after mastectomy should be considered