Long-term morbidity following axillary dissection in breast cancer patients--clinical assessment, significance for life quality and the impact of demographic, oncologic and therapeutic factors.

Objective: This study describes in detail the surgery-related symptoms following axillary lymph node dissection in breast cancer patients and considers both their significance for long term quality of life and the impact of possible influencing factors.

Material And Methods: Three hundred and ninety six patients were studied retrospectively using a self-report questionnaire and a clinical examination. The symptoms, numbness, pain, edema, arm strength and mobility were evaluated.