Akita et al — Subcutaneous Lymph Flow After Mastectomy
Explores lymph node/vessel regeneration pathways after axillary clearance (Ax) or SLNB, including in patients who underwent vascularised lymph node transfer (VLNT).
Verified verbatim
Conclusion: Subcutaneous lymph flow from the chest wall to the ipsilateral axilla following mastectomy was observed more frequently after SLNB than after Ax; however, the resumption of lymph flow in other directions, including the contralateral axilla, was common after either procedure. In contrast, following VLNT, lymph flow from the chest to the transferred LNs was not observed very often. Understanding the direction of lymph flow from the chest wall following mastectomy may be useful to discern the direction in which malignant neoplasms, including lymphoma, are transported and to plan for lymphatic flow restoration.
My take
Supports the general principle that contralateral rerouting is a common, expected physiological response to disrupted ipsilateral drainage — regardless of the exact original surgery.