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.
Treatments - Breast Surgery
Axillary Clearance
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
What is axillary clearance?
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.
What is the goal of axillary clearance?
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.
Axillary clearance surgeon
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.
Axillary clearance in Birmingham
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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Axillary Clearance
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 in Birmingham?
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.
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Each procedure has its own personalised treatment plan that is meticulously tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. Healthcare Insurance may be accepted.
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Axillary Clearance
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Meet the dedicated professionals at Birmingham Breast Group – committed to excellence, compassion, and personalised care for every patient.
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.
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