Physical Therapy in Lipedema Surgery

Background: Lipedema is an adipose tissue disorder in women, with an abnormal fat deposition in lower limbs and occasionally upper limbs. The patients present pain, bruising, heaviness, and mobility impairment. It affects them physically and psychologically. Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the effects of a modified CDT protocol using the Godoy Method in the postoperative period following lipedema surgery.

Outcomes: pain (VAS), edema resorption, complications, mobility and patient satisfaction.

A descriptive statistical analysis will be performed using means and standard deviation (quantitative outcomes) and percentages (dichotomous and categorical outcomes). An inferential analysis will be carried out using paired and unpaired T-tests as One-way and repeated measures ANOVA to search for differences between quantitative outcomes. Pearson chi-square will also be used to relate dichotomous and categorical variables in a transversal analysis. All missing values will be excluded from the analysis. In all cases, a P<0.05 value and a 95% confidence interval will be determined forstatistical significance. All statistical analysis will be performed using the Stata® version 14.2 package for MS Windows® version 10.

Inclusion criteria

• female subject who underwent a lipedema surgery
• recommendation of the surgeon to receive physical therapy

Exclusion criteria

• unilateral surgery
• lack of data in the clinical history
• only 1-2 physical therapy sessions