Effects of Education Program for Combined Management of Lymphedema with regard to Breast Cancer Patients with AxillaryLymph Node Dissection: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a combined management of lymphedema education (CMLE) program which was designed for the prevention of breast cancer related lymphedema. Methods: We applied a quasi-experimental study, pre-test, and posttest design with a non-equivalent control group. Breast cancer survivors with partial or total mastectomy and axillary lymph node dissection were recruited and assigned to either an intervention or control group at S hospital in Seoul. The outcomes were measured using the Breast Cancer Lymphedema Symptom Experience Index, Lymphedema Risk Reduction Behavior Check-list, Patients Activation Measure 13, Functional assessment of cancer therapy-General, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand. The circumferences of both arms were measured by a nurse. These measurements were conducted and compared at baseline and two weeks after completing the (CMLE) program. Results: There were statistically significant changes in quality of life, physical wellbeing, and lymphedema risk behaviors in both groups after the CMLE program. There were significant differences in the cir-cumference of right forearm, elbow, and upper arm between the two groups. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the CMLE pro-gram is viable tool to prevent and manage breast cancer related lymphedema and is effective in improving the quality of life in breast cancer survivors with axillary lymph node dissection.

Automated summary

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a combined management of lymphedema education (CMLE) program for the prevention of breast cancer related lymphedema. The results showed significant changes in quality of life, physical wellbeing, and lymphedema risk behaviors in both groups after the CMLE program.