A randomised trial of interventions for the management of lymphoedema after axillary treatment for breast cancer

Funded Activity Summary

As part of the management of early breast cancer, the axilla (armpit) is usually dissected surgically to determine whether the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, and to lessen the chance of cancer recurring in this area. Information on lymph node involvement by cancer affects decisions about treatment, such as whether chemotherapy should be used. Surgical operations on the axilla can lead to nerve and muscle damage, and interfere with the flow of lymph (tissue fluid) from the arm, which results in swelling and discomfort (lymphoedema). Various treatments are available for lymphoedema, including massage, exercise and complession, but good information on their relative effectiveness in the short and long term are lacking. Evidence of effectiveness is important because some treatments involve considerable expense for patients and health care services, and the best treatment is the minimum treatment that is effective. Australian Consumers have called repeatedly for lymphoedema treatment trial research. A randomised controlled trial (RCT) is proposed with a follow-up period of four weeks for the reduction-phase treatment of lymphoedema. The trial will include a control group that receives no treatment except education on skin care. Women in the control group or with an insufficient response to sub-maximal treatment in the trial will receive a further four weeks of maximal treatment (not included in the trial). Only women who give informed consent will participate in the trial. The treatment combinations are (1) exercise; (2) massage; (3) compression; (4) exercise + massage; (5) exercise + compression; (6) massage + compression; (7) exercise + massage + compression. All women will receive skin care education. Women will be followed up with regular measurements of arm signs and symptoms.

Funded Activity Details

Start Date: 01-01-2003

End Date: 01-01-2005

Funding Scheme: NHMRC Project Grants

Funding Amount: $151,250.00

Funder: National Health and Medical Research Council

Research Topics

ANZSRC Field of Research (FoR)

Rehabilitation And Therapy: Occupational And Physical

ANZSRC Socio-Economic Objective (SEO)

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Other Keywords

breast cancer | chronic pain | intervention trial | lymphoedema | morbidity | outcome assessment | quality of life | randomised trial | treatment | women's health

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