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Lymph is a clear colorless fluid which originates in body tissue and travels in the
lymph vessel system carrying away tissue fluid as well as metabolic waste. In passing
from one region of the body to another, cellular debris and microorganisms are filtered
by lymph nodes along its path.
Lymphedema is the abnormal collection of lymph fluid which causes swelling of an arm
or a leg. It can reduce one's ability to function as well as impair quality of life. Most
cases stem from cancer or its treatment. Surgery to remove cancer often removes regional
lymph nodes and radiation to the chest of groin/pelvic areas can disrupt the body's ability
to drain accumulated lymph from the distal limb. Modern cancer treatments lead to lymphedema
in 20% of patients.
Early intervention is key, In Europe, Lymphatic Drainage Therapy is frequently performed
prior to radiation or surgery to prevent the complication of lymphedema. "Any doctor who
tells you that nothing can be done for lymphedema is wrong" reported Jane Brody of the New
York Times (April 7th 1998). Effective measures include manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapy,
bandaging and specialized exercises.
We recommend Lymphatic Drainage to be applied for one or two sessions prior to surgery
and radiation. This process drains and stimulates the lymphatic system before it is inhibited
by the ensuing trauma. (it is much more difficult to drain post-operatively or
post-radiation). The drainage will make it easier for your surgeon to make incisions
through clean tissue , particularly for reconstructive surgery. After surgery, Lymphatic
Drainage can be used to prevent infection and may also alleviate pain and spasm. The therapy
has also been shown to improve the scarring process. Post-op drainage can require several
sessions which proceed as follows:
The National Lymphedema Network in San Francisco has a hotline: 800-541-3259 and the
National Cancer Institute can fax several pages of info about lymphedema to you.
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