Lymphedema Prophylaxis Utilizing Perioperative Education
Abstract
The purpose is to evaluate perioperative training for lymphedema assessment and protection. The hypothesis is that structured perioperative training in lymphedema protection will decrease lymphedema, the episodes of infection, the time to detection of lymphedema and improve the QOL in patients undergoing axillary dissection and/or radiation therapy for breast cancer as compared to a control group. The specific questions (scope) are 1) what is the incidence of lymphedema and infection during the first three years after surgery among breast cancer patients who received perioperative training in lymphedema protection as compared to a control group? 2) What are the differences in the measured QOL among breast cancer patients during the first three years after surgery that received perioperative education in lymphedema protection as compared to a control group? 3) What are the retention of information on lymphedema protection, and the compliance with arm precautions among breast cancer patients who received perioperative lymphedema training as compared to a control group? Major Findings: During the first 21.5 months of the study, the incidence of lymphedema was 32.9% overall with 40% in the intervention group as compared to 26.8% in the control group. The QOL measures for the intervention group decreased thus far as compared to the control group. The knowledge scores on lymphedema protection were comparable between the two groups. Significance: The lymphedema rate observed overall thus far, and including acute and chronic lymphedema, is greater than reported in the literature. With a decrease in QOL scores and the same knowledge of lymphedema protection, additional analyses may show other influences on the use of the lymphedema protection knowledge, which may impact lymphedema occurrence. This may shift established practice in lymphedema prevention and detection for breast cancer survivors.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA408763
Entities
People
- Mary A. Kosir
Organizations
- Wayne State University