Cording

Cording, also described as axillary web syndrome, can occur after axillary surgery such as full axillary dissection, sentinel node biopsy and after excision of masses from the axillary tail of the breast. It presents as a visible and palpable cord of subcutaneous tissue running from the axilla to the elbow.

It is thought to be a superficial thrombophlebitis (inflammation of the superficial veins), a variant of Mondor's disease (superficial thrombophlebitis of the breast). http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21987036

Other authors describe it as an inflammation of the lymphatics in the upper arm.

Cording generally resolves in about 12 weeks. Anti-inflammatory drugs can help, as can massage, range of motion exercises, and physical therapy.

Adhesions is a term used for intra-abdominal scarring from prior surgery or infection.