A randomized study comparing manual lymph drainage with sequential pneumatic compression for treatment of postoperative arm lymphedema

This randomized trial compared Lympha Press® to MLD performed in-clinic. Lympha Press® and MLD were equally effective at reducing swelling. (Study funded by research grants from the Cancer Foundation of Sweden).

A randomized study comparing manual lymph drainage with sequential pneumatic compression for treatment of postoperative arm lymphedema.

PUBLICATION: K. Johansson, E. Lie, C. Ekdahl, J. Lindfelt. Department of Physical Therapy and Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Lund, Sweden., (1998) Lymphology, 31, 56-64.

STUDY SIZE: 28 patients

Manual lymph drainage (MLD) was compared with Lympha Press® for treatment of unilateral arm lymphedema in 28 women previously treated for breast cancer. Following two weeks of therapy with a standard compression sleeve with maintenance of steady arm volume, patients were randomly assigned to either of two treatment regimens (MLD performed according to Vodder technique for 45 min./day, and Lympha Press® with a pressure of 40-60 mmHg for two hours/day). Both treatments were carried out for two weeks.

RESULTS: MLD and Lympha Press® each significantly decreased arm volume but no significant difference was detected between the two treatment methods.