THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM

The lymphatic system is comprised of lymph nodes, lymph vessels and lymph fluid.

Being part of the immune and circulatory systems, it aids the body in fighting

infections and works to assure optimal health.

TWO TYPES OF LYMPHEDEMA 

Primary lymphedema – described as congenital dysfunction of the lymphatic system.

Secondary lymphedema – can be a side effect of cancer treatment, including lymph

node dissection and radiation therapy, in addition to many other non-cancer related

causes, as previously mentioned.

When the lymphatic system is damaged, a build-up of lymph fluid remains in the

tissues of an affected limb or body part, giving rise to a condition called

Lymphedema, which is a chronic and progressive swelling. Lymphedema can occur

in any part of the body, and while primarily occurring in the limbs, it can also occur in

the breast, genitals, as well as the head, face, and neck.

Lymphedema can be a side effect of cancer treatment in which lymphatic structures

are either removed or altered. Trauma, congenital malformations, infection, obesity

are other causes. Once acquired, Lymphedema is a life-long condition, which

requires focused therapeutic intervention and diligent self-care management.

-Visible intermittent or chronic swelling in a limb or body part

-Heaviness, tightness, or a feeling of fullness in an affected limb or body part

-Unusual, rapid, or progressive swelling

-Tight-fit feeling of clothing or jewelry

Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is the Gold Standard of Care in treating

Lymphedema. CDT is a 4-part intensive therapy protocol, consisting of:

• Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
• Gradient Compression Bandaging (GCB)
• Skin Care
• Therapeutic Exercises

Once discharged from intensive CDT, patients are educated in self -care maintenance,

which primarily involves caring for their Lymphedema with specialized compression

therapy garments. They are also taught self-MLD and self-gradient compression

bandaging, if needed, as well as proper skin care and home-based therapeutic

exercises. Patients are also encouraged to be periodically reevaluated by their

therapists or therapy centers, as well as by their physician(s).

Patient education regarding the risk for Lymphedema, including identifying signs and

symptoms is perhaps the most crucial risk reduction steps to avoiding Lymphedema and

as such, we comprehensively consult with our patients about this. We additionally

provide preemptive physical evaluation, leading to individual care plans, focused on

either surveillance or therapeutic intervention, as needed.

If Lymphedema has already been acquired and is still in an early stage, then initial

therapeutic intervention and use of compression therapy garments has been shown to reduce the progression of symptoms.