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The effect of oncological treatment in breast cancer patients on functional effi ciency of the upper limb and the principles of physiotherapeutic management

Introduction: Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumour and the second cause of death among women in Poland following lung cancer. Its therapy includes a number of procedures, including surgical treatment, the choice of which depends, among others, on the histological form of the cancer and disease severity. In recent years, radical surgical techniques have been replaced by conserving ones, and in the context of routine resection of the axillary lymph nodes (lymphadenectomy), biopsy was introduced, i.e. sentinel lymph node biopsy (SNB). Also, wide access to reconstructive treatments carried out with various techniques, using patients’ own tissues or artificial materials (breast implants) have been applied.

Study aim: The aim of the work is to present the current state of knowledge on the principles of breast cancer treatment and its undesirable consequences, as well as the selection of physiotherapeutic methods depending on the type of upper limb dysfunction as a result of the performed surgery.

Research materials: The research materials consist of patients treated using various surgical and oncological methods as well as physiotherapeutic procedures at the Holy Cross Oncology Centre in Kielce, from 2014 to 2016. The written consent of the Clinic Chief and patients for the publication of their image was obtained. The authors of the work do not indicate any conflict of interest.

Research Methods: The research methodology was based on the presentation of selected patients treated using various oncological and surgical methods for breast cancer treatment, as well as characterization of the physiotherapeutic methods necessary in restoring expected functional upper limb status in these patients.

Conclusions: Modern methods used in breast cancer treatment should be conditioned by good cooperation of an entire team of specialists from various clinical areas and physiotherapists. The purpose of this procedure is to cure the patient, minimize the occurrence of complications and adverse side effects, and restore functional capacity. An integral part of such breast cancer treatment patients is, among others, their effective rehabilitation.

