After Cancer Treatment

About After Cancer Treatment

Lymphoedema can be a long-lasting side effect of cancer treatment. During cancer surgery, nearby lymph nodes are often removed, and radiation therapy can further damage lymphatic channels. Together, these can disrupt the flow of lymph and cause swelling in the arm or leg. Most patients who develop lymphoedema do so within two to three years of their primary cancer surgery.

Breast cancer survivors are particularly prone to arm lymphoedema, since axillary node clearance combined with post-operative radiation significantly damages the limb's drainage system. Even when nodes are not directly removed, extensive surgery or radiation can injure superficial lymphatics in the skin. The lifetime risk persists, increasing with any new trauma or infection. Dedicated reconstruction after cancer surgery helps reduce this burden.

At Kayakriti, evaluation begins with limb measurements, history of cancer treatment, lymphatic mapping and skin assessment. In early phases, two microsurgical procedures form the core of post cancer recovery surgery. Free vascularised lymph node transfer involves harvesting superficial neck lymph nodes with their artery and vein, then microsurgically anastomosing them at the wrist or ankle after careful tissue release.

Lympho-venous bypass connects blocked lymphatics directly to small veins, redirecting fluid back into circulation. For severely deformed limbs or advanced lymphoedema, excisional procedures or liposuction help reduce bulk and restore shape. These minimally invasive approaches offer minimal discomfort and rapid recovery. Dr. Amit Agarwal's reconstructive surgery after tumor removal is centred on restoring function and quality of life.

What to expect

• Review of cancer treatment history, lymph node status and radiation details.
• Limb measurements and lymphatic imaging to identify surgical candidacy.
• Discussion of lympho-venous bypass and lymph node transfer options.
• Liposuction or excisional debulking discussed for advanced limb deformity.
• Coordinated plan with oncologist for safe timing of reconstruction.

Recovery

• Lympho-venous bypass patients return to desk work within two weeks.
• Lymph node transfer needs four to six weeks before full work duties.
• Liposuction-based debulking usually allows light work in three weeks.
• Compression sleeves and garments continue for at least six to twelve months.