A Novel Approach to Lymphedema Management in Upper Extremity Amputations: A Case Report

Many breast cancer survivors experience lymphedema complications from past medical management procedures such as axillary lymph node dissections and/or radiation therapy. These complications negatively affect the patient’s health and overall quality of life. Occupational therapists (OT) certified in...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published inThe Internet journal of allied health sciences and practice
Main Authors Polo, Katie, Gamble, Gali
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published 2015
Online AccessGet full text

Cover

Loading…
More Information
Summary:Many breast cancer survivors experience lymphedema complications from past medical management procedures such as axillary lymph node dissections and/or radiation therapy. These complications negatively affect the patient’s health and overall quality of life. Occupational therapists (OT) certified in lymphedema management can contribute to positive patient outcomes as part of a comprehensive medical team. A case is presented of a 73-year-old female post voluntary trans-humeral amputation due to radiation induced brachial plexopathy. This patient’s treatment was led by an OT certified in lymphedema management and included complete decongestive therapy and analysis of function with a focus on the development of a novel compression garment to support patient self-management.
ISSN:1540-580X
1540-580X
DOI:10.46743/1540-580X/2015.1530