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  Caroline Phillips I have left arm lymphedema due to axillary dissection and radiation therapy 23 years ago. This year I had sentinal node biopsy, right side. In two weeks I will have further surgery and I'm concerned about the risk of developing lymphedema in the right...  moreI have left arm lymphedema due to axillary dissection and radiation therapy 23 years ago. This year I had sentinal node biopsy, right side. In two weeks I will have further surgery and I'm concerned about the risk of developing lymphedema in the right arm when it will be used for blood draw and anesthesia. Further, I have found not a single phlebotomist in my state who will do a blood draw from my foot, and very few medical professionals know how to measure blood pressure on my leg. I'm told that the risk of developing lymphedema after sentinal biopsy is very low, but 5% to 12% seems significant to me.
  
  Does anyone have experience or ideas to share?  less

  • May 16, 2009