What Happens If the Lymphatic Vessels and Nodes are Removed

Question

What happens if the lymphatic vessels and nodes are removed from the right axillary region?
A) All lymph will drain directly into the superior vena cava.
B) The right arm will become gangrenous from lack of oxygen.
C) The right arm will become edematous.
D) The patient will experience anginal pain.

Accepted Answer

The lymphatic vessels and nodes are responsible for draining excess fluid from tissues and returning it to the bloodstream. If they are removed from the right axillary region, lymphatic fluid from the right arm will not be able to properly drain and will instead accumulate, causing edema (swelling) in the arm. Gangrene and anginal pain are not related to lymphatic drainage. Lymph does not drain directly into the superior vena cava, it must first pass through lymph nodes.