Assessment of tactile sensitivity and function of upper member in the post surgery of mastectomy compared with quadrantectomy

Abstract

The surgeries performed to treat breast cancer can cause significant changes in sensitivity, function and range of upper extremities, which may affect the daily living. The objective of this study was to assess tactile sensitivity and upper limb function in women undergoing surgery for breast cancer, after 90 days of operation, comparing the surgical types mastectomy and quadrantectomy. A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed with volunteers who underwent surgical treatment for breast cancer at the Division of Mastology Ambulatory in the Federal University of São Paulo, Brazil. The sensitivity of the intercostal nerve region was assessed using the Semmes- Weinstein esthesiometer, the range of motion was assessed by goniometry and the function of upper limbs was assessed by a DASH questionnaire. There was no statistically significant difference between groups for the evaluation of sensitivity, most patients had grade 0 disability sensitivity of regions evaluated (breast, armpit and arm); regarding DASH, both groups had no change function and no significant difference between groups; shoulder flexion was lower, with a statistically significant difference, in the mastectomy group. We concluded that the sensitivity and function of the upper limbs were similar in the groups quadrantectomy and mastectomy 90 days after surgery. As for range of motion, only the movement of flexion was lower with a statistically significant difference in the mastectomy group.