As has already been mentioned, there is always a small risk associated with the use of a general anesthetic. However, you are far more likely to be run over while crossing the road than you are to suffer any serious complication caused by a general anesthetic.

Very rarely, the supply of oxygen to the brain can be interrupted during anesthesia, and brain damage, possibly with paralysis, or death can occur. Although this risk has to be borne in mind, it should be kept in perspective.

Other minor complications are a sore throat, coughs and chest infections. Muscle pain which may develop as a result of the muscle relaxants used usually lasts for no more than 48 hours.

If a complication arises

If you are at all concerned about anything that occurs after your operation, contact your doctor, the consultant or the hospital ward for advice. Although serious complications are not common, it is better to err on the safe side, and most doctors will be happy to discuss your worries with you.

Recurrence

One of the worst complications to follow surgery for cancer is to have a recurrence of the disease. The risk of cancer recurring in the scar of the operation or in the lymphatic in the armpit should be less than 5 per cent. The surgeon will take all possible steps to be sure that local control of the cancer is achieved. Recurrence outside the area of the breast and its immediate lymphatic drainage is less easy to predict and to treat.

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