The complications of radiotherapy for breast cancer and the treatment for radiation ulcer.
- Author:
Ye-yang LI
1
;
Min LIANG
;
Jin-lun WANG
;
Li-ren JIAO
;
Jun HUANG
Author Information
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- MeSH: Adult; Aged; Brachial Plexus Neuropathies; etiology; Breast Neoplasms; radiotherapy; Female; Humans; Middle Aged; Radiation Injuries; etiology; surgery; Radiotherapy; adverse effects; Surgical Flaps; Treatment Outcome; Ulcer; etiology; surgery
- From: Chinese Journal of Plastic Surgery 2004;20(1):13-15
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
OBJECTIVETo explore the effective treatment for chronic ulcer following radiotherapy for breast cancer and reveal the universality and severity of radiation-induced brachial plexus neuropathy.
METHODSThe TRAM flap, the local expanded flap or the delayed skin flap were applied to repair the ulcer wounds in 16 patients. Electromyogram examinations were used to evaluate the radiation lesions of the brachial plexus.
RESULTSAll the flaps survived successfully with satisfactory results except one, which sustained partial necrosis due to infection. Ten patients underwent regular electromyogram examinations, seven of them were found to have radiation-induced brachial plexus neuropathy.
CONCLUSIONSRadiation ulcer following radiotherapy for breast cancer is often concomitant with brachial plexus neuropathy. These injuries presented a chronically progressive and irreversible course. Application of the flaps that have adequate blood supply can reconstruct the wounds effectively.
