European journal of surgical oncology : the journal of the European Society of Surgical Oncology and the British Association of Surgical Oncology
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Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
Long term results of a randomised prospective study of preservation of the intercostobrachial nerve.
We have previously reported in a randomised controlled trial comparing intercostobrachial nerve (ICBN) preservation with division that no difference in symptoms was seen between the groups at 3 months follow-up although a reduced area of sensory loss was measured on the arm. To determine if longer follow-up provides evidence for ICBN preservation, follow-up of patients in the trial at 3 years (range 32-38 months) postoperatively was performed. ⋯ Preservation of the intercostobrachial nerve does not affect patient survival. It improves patient sensory deficit significantly and modestly improves long-term symptoms.