The Effect of Combined Decongestive Therapy and Pneumatic Compression Pump on Body Image in Patients With Lymphedema

Background:

Lymphedema is a common complication for breast cancer therapy. Patients with lymphedema may experience pain and body image issues. This study investigates the effect of Combined Decongestive Therapy and pneumatic compression pump on body image in patients with lymphedema secondary to breast cancer treatment.

methods: 42 women with breast cancer related lymphedema participated. All patients completed the body image and relationships scale. Researchers divided the participants randomly into an intervention (n=21) or control group (n=21). A certified nurse worked on Combined Decongestive Therapy in the intervention group in two phases. In the first phase, CDT was accompanied by use of a compression pump for four weeks, three days per week. In the second phase, CDT was performed daily without compression pump for four weeks by patients at home. At the end of each phase, both groups completed the questionaire. Researchers analyzed the data with SPSS v.17.

Inclusion criteria

• histoty of breast cancer,
• history of surgery and chemotherapy and as needed hormone therapy and radiotherapy,
• affected by lymphedema (with degree of mild to severe) based on specialist diagnosis,
• at least 1 year ago was undergone axillary node dissection,
• do not have knowledge about combined decongestive therapy,
• phone accessibility,
• 35-70 years old.

Exclusion criteria

• psychotic disorder,
• existence sever pain at axillary area,
• history of hysterectomy duo to uterus cancer,
• severe cardiac disease,
• heart failure,
• renal failure,
• severe hypertension,
• existing other malignancies,
• recurrent infection in arm,
• musclo skeletal disease