Sensitivity in upper extremity after surgery for breast cancer with lymphadenectomy

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the sensitivity in path nerve intercostobrachial after breast cancer surgery with axillary lymphadenectomy. Methods: cross-sectional study with women undergoing axillary dissection after breast cancer surgery. The sensitivity of the upper ipsilateral and contralateral axillary lymphadenectomy in the intercostal nerve pathway (medial and superior) by Estesiômetro Semmes-Weinstein, heat and ice. For this, the participants were blindfolded and were applied evaluation techniques, starting with the affected limb. The women were questioned about the presence of numbness, tingling, pricking, burning, fully anesthetized or weight on the region. Descriptive analyzes and comparative were performed and the significance level ≤ 0.05. Results: 10 women who participated showed no significant reduction in sensitivity by Estesiômetro Semmes-Weinstein. There was a reduction of thermal sensitivity and numbness was the most frequent complaint. Conclusion: decreased sensitivity in the limb ipsilateral lymphadenectomy when compared to the contralateral, suggesting changes nerve during surgery to remove breast cancer.