1096-9098/asset/JSO_centre.gif?v=1&s=b44eca97c40499f32ff14e6985e50766d4683ad2)
Research Article
Longitudinal change of treatment-related upper limb dysfunction and its impact on late dysfunction in breast cancer survivors: A prospective cohort study
Article first published online: 18 NOV 2009
DOI: 10.1002/jso.21435
Copyright © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
1096-9098/asset/cover.gif?v=1&s=96beda43b18df3cd9e0fc6722e6240cd02a846a1 "Journal of Surgical Oncology")
Additional Information
How to Cite
Yang, E. J., Park, W.-B., Seo, K. S., Kim, S.-W., Heo, C.-Y. and Lim, J.-Y. (2010), Longitudinal change of treatment-related upper limb dysfunction and its impact on late dysfunction in breast cancer survivors: A prospective cohort study. Journal of Surgical Oncology, 101: 84–91. doi: 10.1002/jso.21435
Publication History
- Issue published online: 18 DEC 2009
- Article first published online: 18 NOV 2009
- Manuscript Accepted: 15 SEP 2009
- Manuscript Received: 12 FEB 2009
Funded by
- National R&D Program for Cancer Control
- Ministry of Health & Welfare, Republic of Korea. Grant Number: 0620440
- Abstract
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- upper limb dysfunction;
- breast cancer;
- objective measurement
Abstract
Background and Objectives
To investigate the prevalence of upper limb dysfunction (ULD) and subtypes after breast cancer surgery and to identify factors associated with late ULD.
Methods
Among 191 enrolled patients, 191 were evaluated at 3 months, 187 at 6 months, and 183 at 12 months after surgery. Pain, shoulder range of motion, muscle strength, and arm circumference were assessed. Based on symptoms and physical examinations, the types of ULD common after breast cancer treatment were diagnosed and categorized.
Results
The prevalence of ULD after surgery were 24.6%, 20.9%, and 26.8% at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. The most common types of ULD were pectoralis tightness at 3 and 6 months and lymphedema at 12 months. Patients with pectoralis tightness or lymphedema at 3 or 6 months showed a higher prevalence of rotator cuff disease at 12 months compared with those without early pectoralis tightness or lymphedema.
Conclusions
The major post-operative ULD were pectoralis tightness at 3 and 6 months and lymphedema at 12 months. Late ULD such as rotator cuff disease were associated with pectoral tightness or lymphedema at earlier stages. Diagnosis and treatment of ULD should take place as soon as possible after surgery. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;101:84–91. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.