Função física e sintomas da extremidade superior em mulheres submetidas a procedimentos cirúrgicos por câncer de mama

Abstract

Introduction Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed health condition in women worldwide, in addition to being the main cause of death from cancer in women. In Brazil, this condition is the 2nd most common type of cancer. Among the treatment options, surgical approaches, such as mastectomy, cause six times greater chances of the occurrence of sequelae related to the mobility and function of the upper extremity, such situations cause restrictions in the limb, affecting the biomechanics of the joint and causing functional limitations in activities of daily living. Assessment of the function and symptoms of the upper limb is an important factor for women with this condition . Thus, the use of assessment instruments that address a biopsychosocial model, stands out, and the Quick Dash questionnaire becomes a relevant tool, as it contains items that address the domains of functionality Objective : To analyze the degree of functional disability and upper extremity symptoms, related to the limb ipsilateral to surgery, in women undergoing a surgical procedure s for breast cancer. Methodology : Descriptive, quantitative, observational, cross sectional and retrospective study, in which data were obtained from assessment forms, the Quick DASH questionnaire and medical records of women seen by the outpatient Mastology Physiotherapy service at Maternidade Escola Assis Chateaubriand (MEAC). The data were analyzed using means, standard deviations, absolute frequencies and percentages, and the software used for storage and analysis was Microsoft Excel 2010® and SPSS software version 26. Results Data from 38 women who underwent the procedure s surgery for breast cancer were included in the study. Women were unable to perform heavy domestic tasks and recreational activities that require force or impact on the arms, shoulders or hands, with a percentage of 71.1% (n=27) and 68.4% (n=26), respectively. In relation to work and activities of daily living, 31.6% (n=12) had few limitations and the same percentage were unable to carry out these activities. Regarding the severity of pain and tingling, 44.7% (n=17) and 39.5% (n=15) reported these symptoms as moderate, respectively. Regarding sleep quality, the most prevalent response was that there was no difficulty, 31.6% (n=12). Conclusion : The most common disabilities in this profile of women are related to pain, reduced range of motion and sensitivity disorders. Furthermore, pain is an important factor in issues related to the limitation of activity and social participation in this group.