Why Should Blood Draws Be Avoided on the Arm After Breast Surgery?
Blood draws and blood pressure measurements are often avoided on the arm on the same side as previous breast surgery, especially when lymph nodes under the arm have also been removed or treated. There are several important medical reasons for this precaution.
Reasons to Avoid Blood Draws or Blood Pressure Measurements on That Arm
1. Risk of Arm Swelling or Lymphedema
After breast surgery, particularly when lymph nodes are removed through an axillary lymph node dissection or sentinel lymph node biopsy, lymphatic drainage from that arm may be reduced.
Pressure or irritation to the arm, such as repeated blood draws or compression from a blood pressure cuff, may increase the risk of lymphatic fluid accumulation and chronic swelling known as lymphedema.
2. Increased Risk of Infection
Because lymphatic drainage may be impaired, the affected arm may be more vulnerable to infection.
When the skin is punctured during a blood draw or injection, or when even a small wound occurs, the risk of infection such as cellulitis may increase.
3. Compression May Irritate Blood Vessels and Tissues
The pressure created by a blood pressure cuff may affect sensitive blood vessels and tissues in the arm. This may contribute to swelling, inflammation, discomfort, or pain.
Recommendations After Breast Surgery
๐ Always inform healthcare professionals which side of the breast was operated on.
๐ Avoid blood draws, injections, blood pressure measurements, or acupuncture on the affected arm whenever possible.
๐ Use the opposite arm instead.
๐ Keep the skin on the affected arm clean and protect it from cuts, scratches, burns, and insect bites.
Blood draws and blood pressure measurements should generally be avoided on the arm on the same side as breast surgery because they may increase the risk of chronic swelling or infection, especially when lymph nodes have been removed.
Reference :
Targeted Therapy Cancer Center
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