How knowing her options
helped Leanna navigate
mastectomy*
Read how the Resensation® surgical technique using
Avance® (acellular nerve allograft–arwx) after
mastectomy helped Leanna after a BRCA2 gene
mutation diagnosis.
3 minute read
Leanna’s story
Leanna takes after both her grandmothers in countless ways. She never thought a mastectomy experience would be among them.
Her maternal grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 80. Her paternal grandmother survived breast cancer in her 30s but was diagnosed with cancer again later in life. She takes pride in her family’s resilience—and acknowledges their struggle.
In Leanna’s mid-20s, newly engaged, an annual exam discovered a lump in her breast. “You just kind of think of the future,” she said of her initial reaction to the news. “Will I be able to start a family? Am I going to be around for a long time?”
Taking action
Fortunately, the results were normal at Leanna’s follow-up mammogram. Four years later, however, she sought genetic testing after discovering a second lump. When the test revealed a BRCA2 gene mutation, her grandmothers’ experiences made Leanna’s decision clear: She needed a preventive double mastectomy.
Top of Leanna’s mind was a desire to be there for her husband and kids. But she was all too aware of how this potentially life-saving option would result in partial or complete numbness across her chest.1 This knowledge empowered Leanna to discuss the Resensation technique as part of her breast reconstruction process with her surgeon.
There wasn’t even a question in my mind. I’m taking action because I don’t want to risk anything.Leanna
Information matters over time
Nerves take time to regenerate after the Resensation technique.2 For Leanna, that temporary period of numbness after surgery was difficult both physically and emotionally.
Now, Leanna considers herself lucky that she was informed of all her options for breast reconstruction, including the Resensation technique. But she doesn’t want to be one of the lucky ones.
“I really want others to know that they have this option.”
*Each patient outcome is dependent upon the nature and extent of nerve loss or damage, the timing between nerve loss and repair, and the natural course of the patient’s recovery. These testimonials reflect the experience of the particular individual and may not represent typical results. Leanna is an employee of Axogen Corporation. However, the views expressed are her own.
References
- Flowers K, et al. Pain, numbness, or both? Distinguishing the longitudinal course and predictors of positive, painful neuropathic features vs numbness after breast cancer surgery. PAIN Reports. 2021;6(4):e976. doi:10.1097/PR9.0000000000000976
- Yano K, et al. Breast reconstruction using the sensate latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2002;109(6):1897-1903. doi:10.1097/00006534-200205000-00018
Read more stories
Hear from more patients about their experiences with the Resensation technique.
What is AVANCE® (acellular nerve allograft-arwx)?
AVANCE is a sterile nerve graft prepared from donated human tissue. AVANCE is implanted in patients with cut nerves to help restore sensory function.
Important Safety Information
AVANCE has risks related to surgery and the use of donated human tissue that you should understand before treatment.
Surgical and Procedure-Related Risks
As with any nerve repair surgery, complications can occur. Risks related to the surgical procedure and use of AVANCE may include pain, increased sensitivity at the implant site, swelling, bleeding, and infection. Other risks may include scarring (including thick or raised scars), delayed wound healing, scar tissue, and formation of a painful nerve growth. Some patients may experience loss, decrease, or change in sensation or movement in the area being treated. A serious problem involving wound healing has also been reported.
Risk of Infectious Disease Transmission
Because AVANCE is made from donated human tissue, it can pass on infectious diseases. Donors are carefully screened and tested for viruses and other infectious agents. However, these measures do not completely eliminate the risk of disease transmission. All infections thought to be transmitted by AVANCE should be reported to Axogen Corporation at 1-888-296-4361.
What to Watch for After Surgery
After your procedure, your doctor will monitor your healing and nerve recovery. Contact your healthcare provider right away if you notice any of the following:
- Redness, swelling, warmth, or increasing pain at the surgical site
- Drainage or signs of infection
- New or worsening numbness, tingling, or pain
- Changes in movement or weakness
- Any other symptoms that concern you
Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions during recovery and rehabilitation.