Home therapy for lymphedema

PUBLICATION: A. McLeod, (1989) Home Health Care, Summer, 18-19.

A description of a home lymphedema treatment program for children, as applied by the Hospital for Sick Children in Canada. Lympha Press® pneumatic compression treatment was applied at home after an in-patient assessment. Lympha Press® treatment was provided according to an individualized routine, with the limb in elevation, use of a recommended compression garment, specific exercise, education, skin hygiene and infection prevention. All components of the home program must be followed if the benefit is to be maximized. Six of nine patients were followed for two years and showed a positive response to the full regime, with a mean decrease in involved limb circumference of 23%. Pneumatic compression treatment as an adjunct to a conservative home program offers a much-needed advancement to the medical management of lymphedema.