Treatments - Breast Surgery

Axillary Clearance

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Axillary clearance, also known as axillary lymph node dissection (ALND), is a surgical procedure integral to the management of breast cancer, particularly in assessing and treating regional lymph node involvement. Within the comprehensive approach to breast cancer care, Birmingham Breast Group (BBG) strategically integrates axillary clearance as part of its high-quality management protocol, ensuring optimal outcomes and personalised care.

At a Glance

Treatment time:

2-3 hours

Anaesthetic:

General Anaesthetic

Return to work:

2-4 weeks

Duration:

Case dependent

Final results:

Breast cancer management

About This Treatment

Axillary clearance involves the surgical removal of a portion of the lymph nodes in the axilla (armpit) region, typically following a positive sentinel lymph node biopsy (SNB) or when extensive lymph node involvement is suspected.

This procedure aims to accurately stage breast cancer, assess the extent of nodal metastasis, and guide further treatment decisions, including adjuvant therapy.

Axillary clearance plays a crucial role in breast cancer management by providing vital information about the spread of cancer beyond the primary tumour site. By examining the axillary lymph nodes for the presence of cancer cells, clinicians can determine the stage of the disease and tailor treatment strategies accordingly. This may include the administration of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy to target any residual cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.

The primary objective of axillary clearance is to accurately stage breast cancer, facilitating appropriate treatment planning and optimising outcomes. By removing potentially cancerous lymph nodes, this procedure aims to reduce the risk of regional recurrence and improve long-term survival rates. Additionally, axillary clearance allows for the assessment of nodal involvement, which informs the need for adjuvant therapies and helps guide prognostic predictions.

Birmingham Breast Group (BBG) is renowned for its commitment to excellence in breast cancer care, encompassing a multidisciplinary approach that integrates advanced surgical techniques like axillary clearance into its comprehensive management protocol. The seamless integration of axillary clearance within BBG’s framework reflects its dedication to delivering personalised, evidence-based care to patients like you at every stage of your breast cancer journey.

At BBG, axillary clearance is performed by a team of highly skilled breast surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists, working collaboratively to ensure optimal patient outcomes. This multidisciplinary approach allows for comprehensive preoperative evaluation, precise surgical execution, and thorough postoperative care, thereby maximising the effectiveness of axillary clearance as part of the treatment plan.

Central to BBG’s philosophy is a patient-centred approach that prioritises individualised care and shared decision-making. When undergoing axillary clearance at BBG, you are actively involved in the treatment process, with ample opportunities to discuss treatment options, ask questions, and express concerns. This collaborative relationship fosters trust and empowers you to make informed decisions about your care, ensuring that your preferences and values are respected throughout the treatment journey.

BBG remains at the forefront of breast cancer research, actively participating in clinical trials and contributing to advancements in the field. Through ongoing research initiatives, BBG seeks to optimise treatment protocols, enhance surgical techniques, and improve treatment outcomes following axillary clearance. By incorporating the latest evidence-based practices and innovative technologies, BBG continues to set the standard for high-quality breast cancer management.

Axillary clearance plays a vital role in the comprehensive management of breast cancer, providing essential staging information and guiding treatment decisions. Through its integration within the Birmingham Breast Group’s framework, axillary clearance exemplifies the commitment to excellence, innovation, and patient-centred care. By leveraging multidisciplinary expertise, personalised treatment approaches, and ongoing research efforts, BBG continues to enhance the quality of care and outcomes when undergoing axillary clearance as part of the breast cancer treatment journey.

Treatment Image

Frequently Asked Questions

The team at Birmingham Breast Group (BBG) comprises expert breast surgeons with specialised training and extensive experience in performing axillary clearance. These surgeons possess advanced knowledge of breast anatomy, lymphatic drainage pathways, and oncologic principles, ensuring precise and thorough removal of lymph nodes while minimising risks and complications. Supported by a multidisciplinary team of oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists, BBG surgeons collaborate closely to deliver comprehensive and personalised care to patients undergoing axillary clearance. Their expertise and dedication to excellence contribute to optimal outcomes and patient satisfaction within BBG’s comprehensive breast cancer management program.

Candidates for axillary clearance typically include breast cancer patients with positive sentinel lymph node biopsy results, indicating potential lymph node involvement. Additionally, individuals with large tumours, aggressive cancer subtypes, or extensive lymph node metastasis may benefit from axillary clearance to accurately stage the disease and guide further treatment decisions. Multidisciplinary evaluation, including imaging studies and pathological assessments, helps determine candidacy for axillary clearance, ensuring that patients receive appropriate and personalised management tailored to their specific cancer profile and clinical needs.

Common side effects following axillary clearance include temporary discomfort, swelling (seroma – fluid), and limited arm mobility, known as axillary web syndrome or “cording.” Numbness and tingling sensations in the arm are also common due to nerve disruption. Lymphedema, characterised by swelling and fluid buildup in the arm, is a potential long-term complication, although less frequent with modern surgical techniques. Additionally, there’s a risk of infection, bleeding, and seroma (fluid) formation at the surgical site. Rehabilitation exercises and lymphedema management strategies can help mitigate side effects and promote optimal recovery following axillary clearance.

Following axillary clearance, downtime varies but typically ranges from two to six weeks. Patients may return to sedentary work within two to four weeks post-surgery, depending on individual recovery progress and job requirements. Light exercise, such as walking, is usually permitted after two to four weeks, with gradual resumption of more strenuous activities over the following weeks. Driving is typically allowed once patients are off pain medications and have regained sufficient arm mobility, typically within two to four weeks. However, it’s crucial to follow postoperative instructions and consult with our healthcare team for personalised guidance.

How much does Axillary Clearance cost at Birmingham Breast Group?

As each case is unique, the cost of treatment at BBG may vary depending on individual factors. We tailor our approach to meet your specific needs, ensuring that you receive personalised care and comprehensive support throughout your journey.

Initial consultation

please enquire

All consultations are conducted in strict privacy and all information is confidential.

Surgery costs from

based on consultation

Each procedure has its own personalised treatment plan that is meticulously tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. Healthcare Insurance may be accepted.

Axillary Clearance

Our Specialist Team

Meet the dedicated professionals at Birmingham Breast Group – committed to excellence, compassion, and personalised care for every patient.

View Our Full Team

BSc, MBBS, MSc, MRCS (Ed), FRCS (Eng), MD, FEBS

Naren Basu

Lead Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon

Meet Naren

BSc, BM, MRCP, FRCR, MD

Daniel Henderson

Consultant Clinical Oncologist

Meet Daniel

MBChB, PhD, FRCS (Eng)

Ms Salena Bains

Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon

Meet Salena

Consultant Clinical oncologist

Dr James Good

PhD, FRCR

Meet James

BSc, PhD, FRCP

Professor Daniel Rea

Professor of Medical Oncology

Meet Daniel

MRCP, FRCR

Dr Sara Meade

Consultant Clinical Oncologist

Meet Sara

BSc, MBBS, MRCS, FRCR

Dr Faisal Majid

Consultant Radiologist

Meet Faisal

MSc, PhD, FRCPath

Dr Abeer Shaaban

Path Consultant Pathologist

Meet Abeer

Bsc, MBBS, MD (Pathology) FRCPath

Dr Rachna Awasthi

Path Consultant Pathologist

Meet Rachna

 

Dawn Larkin

Breast Care Specialist Nurse

Meet Dawn

 

Ruth Tracey

Macmillan Breast Health Care Assistant

Meet Ruth

 

Dr Nadia Alishah

Job Title Here

Meet Nadia

Qualifications Here

Gill Farrington

Breast Care Specialist Nurse

Meet Gill
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Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020

Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.

View More Reviews
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Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020

Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.

View More Reviews
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Written by a patient at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 1st December 2019

I have been a patient of Dr Basu since being diagnosed with Breast Cancer a few months ago. Despite the curse of my diagnosis I couldn’t have asked for a better Dr and standard of care. He and his team are super-efficient, have gone out of their way to get fast effective treatment for me and he has super-human levels of patience. During every consultation he has been ever patient, carefully listened to all my questions and concerns then taken the time to explain everything to me and provided constant reassurance. He has been accessible at all times even over weekends and the support has been broad. He looks after you as if you are family and despite having a 90 minute journey to see him at times as we wanted the fastest appointment we couldn’t ask for anything more. Our family see him as an angel not just a doctor for what he has done for us and would recommend him in less than a blink of a eye.

View More Reviews
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Written by a patient at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30th September 2019

I first met Naren Basu in 2016 at the Queen Elizabeth Women’s Hospital. I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. He is an exceptionally skilled man at putting people at their ease and explaining everything with great patience and candour. He is a consummate professional and really knows his stuff, especially relating to breast cancer. He is very clever, witty, and a super surgeon. He carried out a reduction to both my breasts, removing the tumours at the same time. I was fortunate indeed to have my surgery via the NHS, it would have been very expensive as a private patient but worth every penny. I felt like a million dollars after my operation. I think he is a fabulous man and so skilled on so many levels and outstanding in human kindness.

View More Reviews
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Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 12th June 2019

Nine days before I was due to go on an extended holiday I discovered problems in both breasts. I was lucky enough to get an appointment 3 days before travel. Mr Basu even called me on the day of the appointment to ask me to come in earlier to ensure they had time to undergo all of the tests that evening. Anyone who has had these problems will know how overwhelming it is but Mr Basu took his time to speak to me and explained all of the procedures/tests that would be carried out that evening and possible outcomes. I did have a small procedure and again everything was explained fully and felt quite safe in his hands. The follow up appointments were just as thorough and Mr Basu made sure I understood all that we discussed. If I ever found myself in this position again Mr Basu would be my first port of call.

View More Reviews
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Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 11th May 2020

I was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer November 8th 2019 , I was then appointed Dr Henderson almost immediately to discuss my treatment plan and way forward, I must say Dr Henderson was absolutely fantastic, he has a real calming nature and really put myself and my husband at ease , plotting my treatment course from day 1 gave us a massive line of sight to work to and in with combination of the nurses at little Aston facing the biggest fight of my life became easier & easier as the week progressed, I owe Dr Henderson my life and can’t thank him enough, he’s worth is weight in gold

View More Reviews
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Written by a patient at Good Hope Hospital, 27th November 2019

I am currently under the care of Dr Daniel Henderson at Good Hope Hospital, and I couldn’t ask for better. He listens, and speaks to you in laymans terms so you understand what is going on now and in the future. He talks to you and not at you, and has a very calm and soothing manner. If you are lucky enough to be referred to him, rest assured that you are in good hands, as he gets things actioned quickly.

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a patient at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 1st December 2019

I have been a patient of Dr Basu since being diagnosed with Breast Cancer a few months ago. Despite the curse of my diagnosis I couldn’t have asked for a better Dr and standard of care. He and his team are super-efficient, have gone out of their way to get fast effective treatment for me and he has super-human levels of patience. During every consultation he has been ever patient, carefully listened to all my questions and concerns then taken the time to explain everything to me and provided constant reassurance. He has been accessible at all times even over weekends and the support has been broad. He looks after you as if you are family and despite having a 90 minute journey to see him at times as we wanted the fastest appointment we couldn’t ask for anything more. Our family see him as an angel not just a doctor for what he has done for us and would recommend him in less than a blink of a eye.

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a patient at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30th September 2019

I first met Naren Basu in 2016 at the Queen Elizabeth Women’s Hospital. I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. He is an exceptionally skilled man at putting people at their ease and explaining everything with great patience and candour. He is a consummate professional and really knows his stuff, especially relating to breast cancer. He is very clever, witty, and a super surgeon. He carried out a reduction to both my breasts, removing the tumours at the same time. I was fortunate indeed to have my surgery via the NHS, it would have been very expensive as a private patient but worth every penny. I felt like a million dollars after my operation. I think he is a fabulous man and so skilled on so many levels and outstanding in human kindness.

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 12th June 2019

Nine days before I was due to go on an extended holiday I discovered problems in both breasts. I was lucky enough to get an appointment 3 days before travel. Mr Basu even called me on the day of the appointment to ask me to come in earlier to ensure they had time to undergo all of the tests that evening. Anyone who has had these problems will know how overwhelming it is but Mr Basu took his time to speak to me and explained all of the procedures/tests that would be carried out that evening and possible outcomes. I did have a small procedure and again everything was explained fully and felt quite safe in his hands. The follow up appointments were just as thorough and Mr Basu made sure I understood all that we discussed. If I ever found myself in this position again Mr Basu would be my first port of call.

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 11th May 2020

I was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer November 8th 2019 , I was then appointed Dr Henderson almost immediately to discuss my treatment plan and way forward, I must say Dr Henderson was absolutely fantastic, he has a real calming nature and really put myself and my husband at ease , plotting my treatment course from day 1 gave us a massive line of sight to work to and in with combination of the nurses at little Aston facing the biggest fight of my life became easier & easier as the week progressed, I owe Dr Henderson my life and can’t thank him enough, he’s worth is weight in gold

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a patient at Good Hope Hospital, 27th November 2019

I am currently under the care of Dr Daniel Henderson at Good Hope Hospital, and I couldn’t ask for better. He listens, and speaks to you in laymans terms so you understand what is going on now and in the future. He talks to you and not at you, and has a very calm and soothing manner. If you are lucky enough to be referred to him, rest assured that you are in good hands, as he gets things actioned quickly.

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020

Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.

View More Reviews
View More Reviews

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Priory Hospital Edgbaston

Priory Road, Edgbaston, B5 7UG

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Spire Parkway Solihull

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Spire Little Aston

Little Aston Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield, B74 3UP

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Mindelsohn Way, Birmingham, B15 2FQ

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