Should Women Avoid Ipsilateral Blood Draws, Injections, and BP Checks After Breast Cancer Treatment?

Study debunks conventional guidance about lymphedema prevention.

To lower risk for breast cancer–related lymphedema (BCRL) and cellulitis, guidelines advise women to avoid blood draws, injections, and blood pressure (BP) assessment in the at-risk (ipsilateral) arm and to wear a compression sleeve during air travel after treatment; however, strictly following these recommendations can be an onerous source of stress and anxiety. Investigators at one academic center serially assessed bilateral arm volume in women with newly diagnosed breast cancer; at each visit, participants also completed surveys about whether they had engaged in nonprecautionary behaviors. Patients at this center are not routinely advised to avoid such activities.

Among 632 women (median age at diagnosis, 52; median body-mass index [BMI],…

Reviewing Authors

Laila Samiian, MD

Disclosures

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAssociation of Women Surgeons (Member, Publications Committee)

Laila Samiian, MD

Disclosures

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAssociation of Women Surgeons (Member, Publications Committee)

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Should Women Avoid Ipsilateral Blood Draws, Injections, and BP Checks After Breast Cancer Treatment?

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Reviewing Authors