1. 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

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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. Faces of Lymphedema

7. 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)

8. Stages of Lymphedema

9. 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.

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. 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

13. 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

14. Types of Compression

15. Management Tools- Ready to Wear Compression

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

17. Multilayer Bandaging

18. 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 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.

19. Further Information
Multilayer bandaging
Lymphedema primer

20. THANK YOU