Liao, S.F., Li, S.H., & Huang, H.Y. (2012). The efficacy of complex decongestive physiotherapy (CDP) and predictive factors of response to CDP in lower limb lymphedema (LLL) after pelvic cancer treatment. Gynecologic Oncology, 125(3), 712–715.
To evaluate the efficacy of an intensive complete decongestive physical (CDP) therapy program and identify predictive factors of response in lower-limb lymphedema
Women with unilateral LLL underwent a CDP program of 10–24 sessions that included 45 minutes of manual lymph drainage, compression therapy for 23 hours a day, and remedial exercise and instructions for skin and nail care.
The study was conducted at a single-site with multiple settings in Taiwan.
The study looked at mutliple phases of care.
The study used a retrospective review design.
Circumference measurements were used to calculate lymphedema volume.
Findings suggest that CDP is beneficial for management of lower-limb lymphedema. The lymphedema volume difference in the affected limb was directly correlated with response to CDP.
Findings suggest that CDP is beneficial for management of lower-limb lymphedema in patients treated for pelvic cancers. This is one of few studies for lower-limb lymphedema management. Nurses can educate and support patients in adhering to a CDP program to manage lymphedema. The authors noted that compliance with compression bandaging is a critical component of CDP, and nurses need to emphasize this with patients.