Preservation of Lateral Thoracic Vein and Intercostobrachial Nerve in Breast Conservative Surgery

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Department of General Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Egypt.

Abstract

Background and aim: The major nervous structures of the axilla such as the thoracodorsal and the long thoracic nerves are preserved by most breast surgeons. Nevertheless, the intercostobrachial nerves are frequently sacrificed. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of preservation of intercostobrachial nerve (ICBN) and lateral thoracic vein (LTV) in decreasing postoperative sensory affection and breast edema respectively in breast conservative surgery. Patients and methods: This study was conducted on 30 female patients with early stage breast cancer at General Surgery Department (Surgical Oncology Unit), Tanta University Hospital during the period from September 2013 to September 2014. Patients were divided according to preservation or sacrifation of ICBN and LTV. Results: Preservation of ICBN was accomplished in 15 patients (50%) and accidentally scarified in other 15 patients (50%). Preservation of LTV was accomplished in 27 patients and scarified in the other 3 patients. Conclusion: ICBN preservation decreases postoperative pain and sensory deficit at posteromedial aspect of arm. LTV preservation decreases the occurrence of early postoperative breast edema.

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Ain Shams Journal of Surgery
Volume 8, Issue 1
January 2015
Pages 53-60

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