Pneumatic compression versus manual lymph drainage as part of decongestive care for breast cancer–related lymphedema

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

Participants with unilateral breast cancer–related upper extremity lymphedema receive complete decongestive therapy (CDT) delivered in different ways: standard CDT including manual lymph drainage (MLD), CDT plus intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC), or CDT with IPC instead of MLD. Eligible women are adults (18–65) with at least six months of unilateral lymphedema meeting >20% limb volume or >2 cm circumference difference after mastectomy and axillary dissection. Outcomes include changes in limb volume and circumference, symptoms such as heaviness and tension, upper limb function, and quality of life measured before and after the treatment period. The trial aims to clarify whether IPC can be a useful adjunct or alternative to MLD within routine CDT.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Female gender
* Patients aged 18-65 years
* Having a history of unilateral mastectomy and lymph node dissection at least one year ago due to breast cancer diagnosis.
* Having unilateral breast cancer-related upper extremity lymphedema (\>20% volume difference between the two upper extremities or \>2 cm difference in circumference at any measured point) according to the diagnostic criteria of the International Society of Lymphology (Committee 2023) for at least six months.
* Not having received lymphedema treatment or exercise therapy for the last six months
* Completing breast cancer primary treatment at least 6 months ago (except hormone therapy/aromatase inhibitors)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Bilateral breast cancer
* Bilateral axillary lymph node dissection
* Metastatic breast cancer
* Receiving ongoing radiotherapy or chemotherapy
* Primary or bilateral lymphedema
* Having active cancer
* Presence of stage 3 lymphedema
* Uncontrolled serious systemic disease (cardiopulmonary diseases, arterial or venous diseases, renal dysfunction, uncontrolled hypertension or hypotension, cardiac arrhythmia, scleroderma, Sudek's atrophy).
* Current or recent (within the last 3 months) infection (cellulitis, lymphangitis) or deep venous thrombosis
* Presence of open wounds
* Using medications that may affect body fluid and electrolyte balance (diuretics, etc.).
* Individuals with serious mental and sensory problems
* Being pregnant
* Body mass index \>40 kg/m2

Where it's running

• Pamukkale University
  Denizli, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Emre Bezmez, M.D.
• Email: emrebezmez@gmail.com
• Phone: +905319902220

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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• Gentle Touch therapy for arm lymphedema after breast cancer surgery

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.