Simplified Lymphatic Microsurgical Preventing Healing Approach (SLYMPHA) for the Prevention of Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema after Axillary Lymph Node Dissection

Lymphedema (LE) is a serious complication of axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) with an incidence rate of 16%. Simplified Lymphatic Microsurgical Preventing Healing Approach (SLYMPHA) is a safe and relatively simple method, which decreases incidence of LE dramatically. Our initial study showed an 88% decrease in clinical LE rate. In the initial study, we used arm circumference measurement for the diagnosis of LE and median follow up was 15 months. The aim of this study was to confirm these results after a long-term follow up period and by using bioimpedance spectroscopy (L-Dex) technology in detecting LE.
Source: Journal of the American College of Surgeons - Category: Surgery Authors: Tags: Breast Source Type: research