Lymphoscintigraphic demonstration of chylous leak after axillary lymph node dissection.

Chyle leak is a potentially serious complication resulting from violation of the thoracic duct, right lymphatic duct, or one of their terminal branches. It may impair nutrition and immunity, compromise and delay wound healing, prolong hospitalization, and delay adjuvant therapy. After surgery for breast carcinoma, this is a rare occurrence. Here, the author describes a novel application of lymphoscintigraphy showing thoracic duct injury after a wide excision and axillary clearance.