From: breastadvocateapp.com
For many women with breast cancer, treatment doesn’t end after the tumor is removed. Decisions about lymph node treatment can have a lasting impact on recovery and quality of life.
Now, new research presented at the 15th European Breast Cancer Conference (EBCC 2026) suggests that radiotherapy may help some patients avoid more extensive lymph node surgery while reducing their risk of lymphedema.
Why Are Lymph Nodes Removed?
Lymph nodes are small glands that help filter harmful substances from the body. During breast cancer surgery, doctors often check the lymph nodes under the arm (called the axillary lymph nodes) to see if cancer has spread.
If cancer is found in these lymph nodes, additional treatment is often recommended. Traditionally, that has meant axillary lymph node dissection (ALND), a surgery that removes many of the lymph nodes from the armpit.
While this procedure can be effective, it also increases the risk of developing lymphedema, a condition that causes swelling in the arm, hand, breast, or chest due to a buildup of lymphatic fluid.
What Did the New Study Find?
Researchers studied women with breast cancer who received chemotherapy or hormone therapy before surgery and still had small amounts of cancer remaining in their sentinel lymph nodes.
Instead of automatically performing a full lymph node dissection, researchers compared two treatment approaches:
- Axillary lymph node dissection (ALND)
- Axillary radiotherapy, which uses targeted radiation to destroy any remaining cancer cells without removing additional lymph nodes
Early results showed that patients treated with radiotherapy experienced lower rates of lymphedema than those who underwent more extensive lymph node surgery.
Researchers also found that cancer control appeared to be similar between the two groups during the early follow-up period, although the study is continuing to evaluate long-term outcomes.
Why This Matters
Lymphedema is one of the most common long-term side effects after breast cancer treatment.
Symptoms may include:
- Swelling in the arm or hand
- A feeling of heaviness or tightness
- Reduced flexibility
- Discomfort or aching
- An increased risk of infection
Although not every patient develops lymphedema, reducing that risk whenever possible can make a meaningful difference in daily life.
If future results continue to support these findings, some patients may be able to receive effective cancer treatment while avoiding a more invasive surgery and lowering their chance of developing lymphedema.
Does This Change Breast Cancer Treatment Today?
Not yet.
These findings are encouraging, but the trial is still ongoing. Researchers will continue following patients for several years to confirm that radiotherapy provides the same long-term cancer control as surgery.
Until then, treatment decisions should always be made with your multidisciplinary care team based on your individual diagnosis, stage of cancer, and personal treatment goals.
Questions to Ask Your Surgeon
If your breast cancer has spread to your lymph nodes, consider asking:
- Do I need additional lymph node surgery?
- Am I a candidate for axillary radiotherapy?
- What is my risk of developing lymphedema?
- How will this treatment affect my long-term recovery?
- Are there newer approaches that may reduce side effects?
Understanding your options before treatment can help you make informed decisions with confidence.
How the Breast Advocate App Can Help
Every breast cancer diagnosis is unique, and so is every treatment plan.
The Breast Advocate App was created to help patients better understand their surgical and treatment options before making important decisions. With personalized, evidence-based education, the app empowers you to prepare for conversations with your healthcare team and ask informed questions about procedures, reconstruction, lymph node management, and recovery.
Knowledge is one of the most powerful tools you can bring to your appointment.
Download the Breast Advocate App and take an active role in your breast cancer journey.
Barbara Jacoby is an award winning blogger that has contributed her writings to multiple online publications that have touched readers worldwide.