[Treatment of upper limb lymphedema after radical mastectomy with liposuction technique and pressure therapy].

OBJECTIVE

To study a new method of treatment for upper limb lymphedema after radical mastectomy.

METHODS

From Jun. 2001 to Sep. 2003, 11 cases (2 with complication of erysipelas) of upper limb lymphedema being treated with radical mastectomy for more than 2 years were used as model. All the edema of limbs was sucked from hypodermis with liposuction technique and compressed with compression garment. Three months after operation, elasticity stress was conducted every night.

RESULTS

The reduction of the edema of upper limbs was remarkable. The average decrease of circumference was 4 cm. No erysipelas was observed.

CONCLUSION

The liposuction technique and elasticity stress is a new and effective approach to the treatment of upper limb lymphedema.