Lymphedema can be a debilitating consequence of breast cancer, but a rare surgery gives patients’ hope.
Up to 30% of breast cancer patients can suffer lymphedema … a condition that leads to swelling of the arms and hands after surgery and/or radiation when lymph nodes are removed or affected. The condition can worsen with time. Women can suffer chronic achiness or pain from the swelling and added weight. A rare surgery to transplant or transfer lymph nodes is giving women relief and greatly improving their quality of life. Patient Renee Mauer suffered for six years with lymphedema and felt immediately different upon waking from surgery. Her surgeon, Teresa Buescher (BOO-shur), MD explains how it works.