I’m on the waiting list for an unrelated surgery, but consultant has raised a possible issue with previous lymph node clearance - this will be my first GA since that op. The anaesthetist is being consulted, but I’m wondering how it might differ / what problems I might face.
Has anyone had general anaesthetic post-node clearance? Anything to know?
Thanks.
Hi!
I was a consultant anaesthetist until last year, when I retired.
Was there an issue during your last anaesthetic to your knowledge?
Otherwise cannot see how lymph node surgery can have any bearing on future anaesthetics. Even if something like lymphoedema affects the blood pressure cuff, you can always use the other arm or one of your calfs.
I’d get some more info if possible!
Cheers.
No issues with the last surgery, but that was the node clearance. I know I’m not supposed to have vaccines or other injections into my arms - alas, nodes gone on both sides - so assumed it had something to do with that.
Every confidence the anaesthetist will steer me right ahead of the op, just curious for info ahead of the game.
Thank you for the reply.
I had right sided breast cancer in 2017 with full node clearance and went on to develop lymphoedema. I had corrective surgery on my left breast last year and although the GA process was started in my left hand they swiftly moved it to my foot. The anaesthetist said he would do this when I was asleep as can be painful. I think this method was used partly because of my lymphoedema and partly because they wanted the left side clear of tubes etc. Michele x
They may consider avoiding using your upper limbs in this scenario for the cannulas etc but that is not a problem but definitely worth a discussion with your anaesthetist!
Best wishes!