Pereira de Godoy, J.M., & Guerreiro Godoy, M.D. (2013). Evaluation of a new approach to the treatment of lymphedema resulting from breast cancer therapy. European Journal of Internal Medicine, 24(1), 59–62.

To evaluate the efficacy of a new combination therapy for the management of lymphedema

All patients had a three-to-four hour weekly session that included manual lymph drainage, mechanical lymph drainage, and exercises using facilitating apparatuses and a compression sleeve made from a cotton-polyester material. Exercise and daily life activities were adapted for home use, and psychological and nutritional supports were provided. Compression sleeves were adapted for home use. Activities were individually evaluated and adapted for each patient by an occupational therapist to ensure they could be adapted to fit the treatment program. The textile used for low-stretch compression sleeves exert pressure with muscle activity and rest, and lengthwise elasticity allows flexibility in the limb.  Arm volume was measured monthly.

• The sample (N = 66) was comprised entirely of females. 
• Mean age of the sample was 58.8 years with a range of 33–72 years.

The study was conducted in a single-site, outpatient setting in Brazil.

 A prospective study design was used.

Water displacement was used to measure volume.

• Mean follow up was 12.3 months. 
• The mean volume difference at baseline was 559 ml. 
• An average of 70.1% volume reduction was found at the end of the study (p < 0.0001).

The model of treatment appeared to be effective in management of lymphedema among women with breast cancer.

• The study had a small sample size with fewer than 100 patients.
• Bias is a risk because of the lack of a control group, no blinding, and no random assignment. 
• No disease-related information or patient adherence information was provided.

This approach for lymphedema management appears to be effective. Methods shown here are similar to complete decongestive therapy, with differences in the textile used for compression sleeves, use of an apparatus for arm exercises, and once weekly manual lymph drainage.