The effects of complete decongestive therapy on the extent of secondary lymphoedema in women after breast cancer treatment.

Aim of the study: Aim of the study was to assess the effects of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) on the extent of lymphedema of the upper extremity in women post cancer treatment. Material and methods: Study group: 20 women after breast cancer treatment with a mean age of 63.15 years (± 8.15). The group was intentionally divided into 2 groups: patients with lymphedema and patients without lymphedema. The first group (study group, n = 10) consisted of women who received CDT. 70% of them had undergone mastectomy and 30% - breast-conserving surgery. In addition, 60% had received radiotherapy, 70% - chemotherapy and 80% - hormone therapy. The mean post-treatment period was 6.2 ± 3.5 years. Patients in the second group (control group, n = 10) did not receive any anti-edema treatments. 90% of them had undergone mastectomy and 10% - breast-conserving surgery. In addition, 40% of study participants had received adjuvant treatment in the form of radiotherapy, 80% - chemotherapy and 50% - hormone therapy. The mean post-treatment period was 6.3 ± 4.4 years. Method: The extent of lymphedema was measured using a centimeter tape and Limb Volumes Professional 5.0 software. Results: A significant reduction in the extent of lymphedema (p = 0.005) was achieved in the CDT group between baseline and post-treatment assessments. No such reduction, however, was found in the control group (p = 0.33). Conclusions: Complete decongestive therapy is an effective method of treatment of lymphedema in women post breast cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]