1. Management of Lymphedema in the Cancer Patient
Karie Ann de Gannes,CLT, CMT
Certified Lymphedema Therapist
Academy of Lymphatic Studies
Klose Training

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

3. What causes Lymphedema?
Primary lymphedema e.g. Genetics
Obesity
Secondary Lymphedema. E.g. Trauma, Surgery, Radiation, Chemotherapy
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

4. Faces and Images of Lymphedema

5. 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)

6. Stages of Lymphedema

7. 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.

8. There is no cure or permanent remedy for lymphedema
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.
click
Is There a Cure?

9. 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.

10. Risk 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

11. 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)

12. Why Lymphedema Management Education is Important
Reinforce the risk, patients do not understand why this happened to me and what now!
Cancer patient living with lymphedema
Compliance is the Key

13. Types of Compression

14. Types of Compression Cont.
Medical compression in the form of
Binders
Bandage Liners
Compression knee highs, stockings or arm sleeves
Compression wrapping

15. 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 and Tobago Tel: 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.

16. THANK YOU