Management of Lymphedema in the Cancer Patient Karie Ann de Gannes, CLT, CMT Founder of Lymphedema Association of Trinidad & Tobago Certified Lymphedema Therapist Academy of Lymphatic Studies Klose Training

What is Lymphedema? here is a short video on living with lyphedema

Why Me? No one told me, who this will affect? Lymphedema affects, young, and young at heart, male and female. Lymphedema, is a result of an impaired lymphatic system. It affects, male, female, child and i have even seen animals with lymphedema

What causes Lymphedema? Lymphedema is a result of pooling or collecting of lymph fluid within an area, this is as a result of a damaged lymphatic system Primary lymphedema e.g. Genetics Obesity Secondary Lymphedema. E.g. Trauma, Surgery, Radiation, Chemotherapy

Main Points on Lymphedema For many it is a daily reminder of cancer treatment and the harsh unspoken reality of a life debilitating condition. Lymphedema is the build-up of fluid in tissue when the lymph system is impaired or blocked. The lymph system is a network of lymph vessels, tissues, and organs that carry lymph throughout the body. Lymphedema occurs when lymph is not able to flow through the body the way that it should. Somewhat like clogged pipes. Cancer and its treatment are risk factors for lymphedema. Tests that examine the lymph system are used to diagnose lymphedema. E.g. Doppler Test, MRI, CT Scan or Radionuclide imaging of your lymphatic system (lymphoscintigraphy). Stages may be used to describe lymphedema. 0-3

Faces of Lymphedema

Symptoms of Lymphedema Lymphedema signs and symptoms, which occur in affected arm or leg, include: Swelling of part or all of your arm or leg, including fingers or toes. A feeling of heaviness or tightness. Restricted range of motion. Aching or discomfort. Recurring infections. Hardening and thickening of the skin (fibrosis)

Stages of Lymphedema

Where can lymphedema be present? Lymphedema may present in the extremities, trunk, abdomen, head and neck, external genitalia and inner organs. Its onset may be gradual or sudden.

Is there a cure? There is no cure or permanent remedy for lymphedema. Once the lymph nodes or vessels have been damaged, the patient is at risk of developing lymphedema.

Complete Decongestive Therapy CDT is the only successful,known form of management for lymphedema. This includes: Vodder Manual Lymphatic Drainage Skin and Nail care Multi layer bandaging/compression wear Remedial Exercises.

Precautions Reduce weight Avoid infection Avoid blood work done on affected limb Avoid blood cuff on affected limb Avoid changes in temperature, e.g. ice or heat Consider compression wear especially during exercise and air travel. Include a Certified Lymphedema Therapist in your patient management program

Management of Lymphedema in Palliative Patient Each Patient’s needs are unique Tailor the treatment to the needs of the patient. Complete Decongestive Therapy Multilayer Bandaging (Short Stretch Bandages ) Adjustable compression wear

Types of Compression

Management Tools- Ready to Wear Compression

TYPES OF COMPRESSION cont. Medical compression in the form of Binders Bandage Liners Compression knee highs, stockings or arm sleeves Compression wrapping

Multilayer Bandaging

Service Providers of CDT Please contact The Lymphedema Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT) for a list of Certified Lymphedema Therapists. Karie Ann de Gannes President Lymphedema Association of Trinidad & Tobago 1-868-776-7285 Complete Decongestive Therapy must be administered by a trained therapist. The caregivers and family are instructed on the routine specific to the patient’s needs. N.B. Each case is unique.

Further Information Multilayer bandaging Lymphedema primer

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