Post-therapeutic lymphedema in breast cancer

Abstract

Introductions. Lymphedema is an interstitial accumulation of protein-rich lymph fluid, due to the post-therapeutic alteration of lymphatic circulation in the upper limb. The appearance of lymphedema is favoured by a number of risk factors. All of these factors ultimately lead to a process of tissue fibrosis. Materials and methods. This study was carried out in an outpatient regimen, for a period of 12 months, in the kinetotherapy room, using massage elements for lymphatic drainage and kinetotherapy technique. The study group included 15 patients aged 27-65 years.Results and discutions. Patients evaluated the quality of life after surgery based on the physical and mental symptoms, which is why anxiety, pain reduction through massage and kinetotherapy give patients self-confidence as well as confidence in the recovery process. Conclusions. This complex programme that includes lymphatic drainage massage methods and kinetotherapy techniques should be applied individually, progressively, under the control of the kinetotherapist. Key words: lymphedema, kinetotherapy technique, lymphatic drainage massage,