Her Fight is Our Mission

Lymphedema is a well-documented complication following axillary clearance or radiation during breast cancer treatment. At Apollo Athenaa Women’s Cancer Centre, we recognise the importance of proactive intervention to minimise this risk and ensure better long-term outcomes. Through a combination of microsurgical innovation, physiotherapy, and patient education, our prophylactic strategies are designed to protect lymphatic health from the outset of cancer care.

Preventive Lymphovenous Anastomosis (LVA)

One of the most promising advancements in lymphedema prevention is preventive lymphovenous anastomosis, a microsurgical procedure performed at the time of axillary clearance to re-route lymphatic flow before symptoms develop.

Additional Preventive Measures

To further reduce the risk of lymphedema, Apollo Athenaa offers a comprehensive post-surgical care protocol that includes:

• Early Physiotherapy: Gentle, supervised physiotherapy begins soon after surgery to stimulate lymphatic circulation, maintain shoulder mobility, and reduce the likelihood of postoperative stiffness. Individualized rehabilitation plans are created by our certified lymphedema physiotherapists.
• Compression Garments: Custom-fitted compression sleeves are provided for high-risk patients, particularly during periods of travel or increased arm activity. These garments support lymphatic flow and help prevent fluid accumulation.
• Ongoing Monitoring and Education: Patient awareness is key to early detection. We educate patients on early warning signs, such as heaviness, tightness, or subtle swelling, so they can seek intervention before lymphedema becomes advanced. Regular follow-up appointments ensure continuous evaluation and support.

Key Advantages

• Proactive Microsurgical Intervention: During axillary clearance, functioning lymphatic vessels are carefully identified and connected to nearby veins using supermicrosurgical techniques. This creates an alternate drainage route for lymph fluid, bypassing the disrupted nodes.
• Immediate Lymphatic Bypass: By establishing new pathways intraoperatively, lymphatic fluid is redirected into the venous system, helping to prevent fluid buildup and chronic swelling post-surgery.
• Minimally Invasive with Fast Recovery: The procedure is performed through tiny incisions and causes minimal tissue trauma, leading to less postoperative discomfort and faster recovery.
• ICG Lymphography: Indocyanine Green (ICG) lymphography is used during surgery to accurately map and select viable lymphatic channels, enhancing surgical precision and ensuring effective anastomosis.

At Apollo Athenaa, our prophylactic approach to lymphedema is rooted in early action, advanced surgical solutions, and empowering patients with knowledge and care. By integrating preventive LVA with physiotherapy and long-term monitoring, we help minimise risk and maximise post-cancer quality of life.