Procedure:
Removal of lymphatic nodes for diagnostic purposes.
Risk of this procedure:
There are some risks/ complications, which include:
(a) Damage to major blood vessels. This may require further surgery or blood transfusion.
(b) The loss of the glands may cause lymphatic fluid to build up which may need removal. This is usually temporary and settles over 2-3 weeks.
(c) The space present after removal of nodes may develop infection.
(d) Nerves may need to be cut in removing the nodes and this may cause numbness or muscle weakness or pain in the area of the cut nerve. This is usually permanent.
(e) The removal of nodes may cause swelling in the limb on the side of the operation. This occurs in less than 1 in 100 people and may require further treatment.
(f) The limb may be more prone to infection after node removal.
(g) The scar may become thickened and be discoloured and painful.
(h) The scar, which develops after the surgery, may contract and cause difficulty in movement in the area.