Li, L., Yuan, L., Chen, X., Wang, Q., Tian, J., Yang, K., & Zhou, E. (2016). Current treatments for breast cancer-related lymphoedema: A systematic review. Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention, 17, 4875–4883.
STUDY PURPOSE: To summarize the effects of different breast cancer–related lymphedema (BCRL) treatments
TYPE OF STUDY: Systematic review
PHASE OF CARE: Multiple phases of care
APPLICATIONS: Elder care
Based on the study limitations, the most effective treatment for BCRL could not be identified, because of varying quality and small sample sizes with high risk of bias. Different treatments for BCRL might reduce volume, but effects and well designed randomized, controlled trials with reported placebo effects are needed.
CDT remains the standard of care for the treatment of lymphedema. Complementary therapies may be safe, but more well designed randomized, controlled trials are needed.