Postmastectomy lymphedema.

Abstract

Disturbing lymphedema of the related arm occurs in 20 to 30 per cent of patients after conventional mastectomy.Infection, obesity and radiation therapy are the most important contributing factors in the development of swollen arm. Continuous suction drainage of the wound and the use of antibiotics will reduce the incidence of infection. Lymphangiosarcoma is a rare fatal complication of postmastectomy lymphedema.