Axillary Lymph Node Dissection (ALND)
Removal of multiple lymph nodes from the underarm — performed when sentinel node biopsy shows significant cancer involvement, ensuring complete clearance and accurate staging.
What is Axillary Lymph Node Dissection (ALND)?
Axillary Lymph Node Dissection (ALND) is the surgical removal of multiple lymph nodes from the underarm in patients with breast cancer that has clearly spread to the axilla. It is performed when sentinel lymph node biopsy shows significant disease, when underarm nodes are clinically obviously involved, or in selected locally advanced cancers. ALND ensures complete cancer clearance, accurate staging, and helps guide further therapy. Dr. Tejasree Vengala performs ALND at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad, with attention to careful technique that minimises long-term complications such as arm swelling and shoulder stiffness.
How the Procedure Works
Anaesthesia & Preparation
Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. The breast and underarm area are prepared in sterile fashion.
Underarm Incision
A curved incision is made in the underarm, hidden in the natural skin crease for the best cosmetic outcome.
Node Dissection
Lymph nodes from levels I and II of the axilla are carefully removed, with attention to preserving important nerves and blood vessels.
Drain Placement
A small soft drain is placed to remove fluid that collects after surgery. The drain is removed when the output reduces, usually within a week.
Closure & Recovery
The wound is closed in layers with absorbable sutures. Most patients are discharged in 2–3 days with structured shoulder physiotherapy.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
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Complete clearance of involved underarm lymph nodes
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Accurate staging guides further cancer treatment
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Reduces the chance of cancer returning in the underarm
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Carefully placed incision hidden in natural skin crease
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Structured physiotherapy preserves shoulder function
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Compassionate, expert care by a female breast surgeon
When the underarm is clearly involved, doing a complete, careful clearance is the right operation — but the technique still matters enormously. Protecting the nerves and vessels, planning physiotherapy from day one, and following the patient closely afterwards is what keeps the arm working well.
— — Dr. Tejasree Vengala, Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Axillary Lymph Node Dissection (ALND) Cost in Hyderabad
The cost of axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) in Hyderabad depends on the underlying breast condition, number of lymph nodes requiring removal, complexity of the procedure, investigations required, and the care needed before and after surgery.
For patients requiring surgical removal and evaluation of lymph nodes from the armpit region as part of breast cancer treatment, the approximate cost ranges between ₹80,000 and ₹1,60,000.
| Procedure | Approximate Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Axillary Lymph Node Dissection (ALND) | ₹80,000 – ₹1,60,000 |
The final cost may vary depending on your individual condition, findings during evaluation, extent of lymph node involvement, pathology requirements, and whether any additional procedures are required.
Factors That Influence Axillary Lymph Node Dissection (ALND) Cost
The overall cost may depend on:
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Breast condition and lymph node involvement: The diagnosis, extent of disease, and number of lymph nodes requiring evaluation or removal may influence treatment planning and surgical complexity.
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Pre-operative evaluation: Required breast imaging, biopsy reports, staging investigations when needed, blood tests, and medical assessments before surgery may affect the overall cost.
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Surgical complexity: The extent of lymph node dissection and anatomical considerations may influence the procedure cost.
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Pathology evaluation: Detailed examination of removed lymph node tissue may affect the overall cost.
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Additional procedures: If ALND is performed along with mastectomy, lumpectomy, reconstruction, or other breast procedures, the total cost may vary.
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Hospital stay and post-operative care: The duration of admission, medicines, wound care, drain management, physiotherapy guidance, and follow-up requirements may influence the final estimate.
Is Axillary Lymph Node Dissection (ALND) Covered by Insurance?
Axillary lymph node dissection may be covered by health insurance when it is performed as part of medically necessary breast cancer treatment. Coverage depends on your insurance policy, inclusions, exclusions, and approval process.
Our insurance support team can assist you with checking your policy coverage, required documentation, cashless approval process, and insurance-related queries before surgery.
- Checking your policy coverage
- Cashless approval process
- Required documentation
- Insurance-related queries before the procedure
Dr. Tejasree Vengala
Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon
During consultation, Dr. Tejashree Vengala, General & Laparoscopic Surgeon in Hyderabad, will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and investigation reports to determine the appropriate surgical approach. She will explain the procedure, expected recovery, and guide you regarding the estimated cost based on your individual condition and treatment requirements.
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