[Manual lymph drainage of post-mastectomy "big arm"]

G Ital Med Lav Ergon. 2005 Apr-Jun;27(2):160-4.
[Article in Italian]

Abstract

We estimate the effectiveness of the manual lymphodrainage in the patients with post-mastectomy lymphedema of the upper limb associated to axillary lymphnodes dissection of the ipsilateral arm. The best results were found in the patients with soft and recent lymphedema (which means that was seen within one year); the worst were found in the chronic hard lymphedema. An important psychological assistance and physiotherapy were required to complete the rehabilitation. However, the physiotherapy was very effective when associated to pressed bandage of the arm, at the end of the LDM therapy. Furthermore, the muscle contraction in the bandage had reinforced the lymphoematic pump effect.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Arm*
  • Axilla
  • Bandages
  • Drainage / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lymph Node Excision / adverse effects*
  • Lymphedema / etiology*
  • Lymphedema / psychology
  • Lymphedema / rehabilitation
  • Lymphedema / therapy*
  • Mastectomy / adverse effects*
  • Middle Aged
  • Physical Therapy Modalities
  • Psychotherapy
  • Time Factors