Complex physical therapy employing self-adjusting garment (ReadyWrap®) in breast cancer-related lymphedema cases in Brazilian women: a protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Lymphedema is a common complication following breast cancer treatment. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a self-adjusting compression garment (ReadyWrap®) in reducing (phase 1) and maintaining (phase 2) upper limb volume in women presenting breast cancer-related lymphedema. METHODS: This study will comprise a randomized, controlled, single-blind clinical trial concerning women with breast cancer-related lymphedema undergoing treatment at a public cancer treatment reference hospital in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The intervention will be carried out by adapting self-dressing versus the standard treatment of compressive bandaging (phase 1) and compressive mesh (phase 2). Both groups will be assessed at the beginning and end of intensive treatment and followed up for up to 12 months to evaluate immediate and late outcomes. Assessments will be carried out by physical upper limb examination (inspection, palpation, volume, dynamometry, and thermography) and questionnaires application to assess patient's quality of life pertaining to the health, functionality, and symptoms of the affected upper limb, as well adverse effects and adherence to treatment. Data will be analyzed descriptively and analytically through univariate and multiple linear regressions. P values < 0.05 will be considered statistically significant. DISCUSSION: This study will evaluate the effectiveness of a self-adjustable garment (ReadyWrap®) in the treatment of lymphedema secondary to breast cancer in Brazilian women compared to the gold standard treatment for limb volume reduction (phase 1) and maintenance (phase 2) phases comprising, respectively, a compressive bandaging and a compressive mesh. The outcome results will provide data based on both quantitative responses and self-reported participant outcomes. The study will also assess the cost-effectiveness of the ReadyWrap® treatment versus standard care. Finally, we expect to reaffirm one more product/therapy as a treatment for this extremely complex and impactful condition following the data analysis. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT04934098 [Clinical trials phase 1]. Registered on June 22, 2021. NCT04881604 [Clinical trials phase 2]. Registered on May 11, 2021.

Effectiveness of physical exercise programmes in reducing complications associated with secondary lymphoedema to breast cancer: a protocol for an overview of systematic reviews.

INTRODUCTION: Breast cancer-related lymphoedema (BCRL) is one of the most underestimated and debilitating complications associated with the treatment that women with breast cancer receive. Several systematic reviews (SRs) of different physical exercise programmes have been published, presenting disperse and contradictory clinical results. Therefore, there is a need for access to the best available and summarised evidence to capture and evaluate all the physical exercise programmes that focus on reducing BCRL. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of different physical exercise programmes in reducing the volume of lymphoedema, pain intensity and improving quality of life. METHOD AND ANALYSIS: The protocol of this overview is reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols, and its methodology is based on Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Only those SRs involving physical exercise by patients with BCRL will be included, whether on its own or combined with other exercises or other physical therapy interventions.The outcomes of interest to be considered will be lymphoedema volume, quality of life, pain intensity, grip strength, range of motion, upper limb function and any adverse event. The MEDLINE/PubMed, Lilacs, Cochrane Library, PEDro and Embase databases will be searched for reports published from database inception to April 2023.Two researchers will perform study selection, data extraction and risk of bias assessment independently. Any discrepancy will be resolved by consensus, or ultimately, by a third-party reviewer. We will use Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation System to assess the overall quality of the body of evidence. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: The results of this overview will be published in peer-reviewed scholarly journals and the scientific dissemination will take place in national or international conferences. This study does not require approval from an ethics committee, as it does not directly collect information from patients. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42022334433.

The breast cancer-related lymphedema multidisciplinary approach: Algorithm for conservative and multimodal surgical treatment.

BACKGROUND: Multiple surgical alternatives are available to treat breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) providing a variable spectrum of outcomes. This study aimed to present the breast cancer-related lymphedema multidisciplinary approach (B-LYMA) to systematically treat BCRL. METHODS: Seventy-eight patients presenting with BCRL between 2017 and 2021 were included. The average age and BMI were 49.4 ± 7.8 years and 28.1 ± 3.5 kg/m2 , respectively. Forty patients had lymphedema ISL stage II (51.3%) and 38 had stage III (48.7%). The mean follow-up was 26.4 months. Treatment was selected according to the B-LYMA algorithm, which aims to combine physiologic and excisional procedures according to the preoperative evaluation of patients. All patients had pre- and postoperative complex decongestive therapy (CDT). RESULTS: Stage II patients were treated with lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) (n = 18), vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) (n = 12), and combined DIEP flap and VLNT (n = 10). Stage III patients underwent combined suction-assisted lipectomy (SAL) and LVA (n = 36) or combined SAL and VLNT (n = 2). Circumferential reduction rates (CRR) were comparable between patients treated with LVA (56.5 ± 8.4%), VLNT (54.4 ± 10.2%), and combined VLNT-DIEP flap (56.5 ± 3.9%) (p > .05). In comparison to LVA, VLNT, and combined VLNT-DIEP flap, combined SAL-LVA exhibited higher CRRs (85 ± 10.5%, p < .001). The CRR for combined SAL-VLNT was 75 ± 8.5%. One VLNT failed and minor complications occurred in the combined DIEP-VLNT group. CONCLUSION: The B-LYMA protocol directs the treatment of BCRL according to the lymphatic system's condition. In advanced stages where a single physiologic procedure is not sufficient, additional excisional surgery is implemented. Preoperative and postoperative CDT is mandatory to improve the outcomes.

Utilisation des microchirurgies pour la prévention et le traitement du lymphœdème lié au cancer / Use of microsurgery for the prevention and treatment of cancer-related lymphedema

INTRODUCTION: Le lymphœdème lié au cancer est une complication causée par un dysfonctionnement du système lymphatique à la suite de certains traitements oncologiques ou par le cancer lui-même, dont les plus communs sont les cancers du sein, gynécologiques, de la peau et uro-génitaux. Il peut apparaître après un traitement chirurgical d'un cancer comme une dissection ganglionnaire ou une biopsie du ganglion sentinelle, mais également à la suite de traitements de radiothérapie. Les principales manifestations sont l'enflure du membre ou de la zone atteinte pouvant être accompagnée d'une sensation de lourdeur, de raideur ou de douleur et d'une diminution de la mobilité. Le lymphœdème peut également induire une morbidité physique et causer de la détresse psychologique chez les patients, pouvant nuire de manière importante à leurs relations sociales et à leur qualité de vie. En outre, les personnes ont un risque plus élevé d'expérimenter des épisodes de cellulite et de lymphangite, pouvant ainsi augmenter la fréquence d'hospitalisation et les coûts associés aux traitements. Le traitement actuellement proposé aux personnes atteintes de lymphœdème est la thérapie décongestive complexe. Cette dernière implique, entre autres, des drainages manuels et le port de vêtements de compression, qui demeurent généralement nécessaires jusqu'à la fin de la vie du patient. Bien que cette thérapie puisse, dans certains cas, réduire et maintenir un volume réduit du membre atteint, elle ne permet pas de restaurer le réseau lymphatique lésé. Les microchirurgies pourraient représenter une alternative qui permettrait de restaurer le réseau lymphatique lésé et ainsi de prévenir et d'améliorer les symptômes des personnes atteintes de lymphœdème lié au cancer. Parmi ces microchirurgies, on retrouve la reconstruction lymphatique immédiate comme microchirurgie préventive. Celle-ci se pratique au même moment que la chirurgie oncologique, soit avant l'apparition du lymphœdème. L'anastomose lymphoveineuse et le transfert de ganglions lymphatiques vascularisés sont, pour leur part, des microchirurgies thérapeutiques réalisées chez des patients atteints de lymphœdème. CONTEXTE: Compte tenu des avantages que pourraient offrir la reconstruction lymphatique immédiate, l'anastomose lymphoveineuse et le transfert de ganglions lymphatiques vascularisés pour la prévention et le traitement du lymphœdème lié au cancer, l'INESSS s'est vu confier le mandat d'évaluer la pertinence clinique de ces microchirurgies dans les établissements de santé québécois, et le cas échéant, de formuler des recommandations relatives à l'organisation de cette offre de services au Québec. MÉTHODOLOGIE: Une revue systématique des données issues de la littérature a été réalisée afin de documenter l'efficacité et l'innocuité des différentes microchirurgies. La littérature considérée porte sur les personnes atteintes d'un cancer, de tous types et de tous stades, ayant subi une microchirurgie dans le but de prévenir ou de guérir un lymphœdème. Des consultations auprès des parties prenantes, comprenant des experts cliniques ainsi que des patients, ont été menées. Des données clinico-administratives ont également été analysées afin d'obtenir un portrait de la problématique au Québec, d'évaluer les coûts des microchirurgies ainsi que l'impact budgétaire que pourraient avoir ces microchirurgies si elles étaient implantées dans notre système de santé. L'ensemble des données a été intégré dans le but de produire des constats auxquels un niveau de preuve a été rattaché. Ces constats, ainsi que des propositions de recommandations, ont été soumis au Comité délibératif permanent ­ Modes d'intervention en santé, pour que celui-ci puisse délibérer en vue de la formulation des recommandations définitives. CONSTATS: L'intégration des données scientifiques, contextuelles et expérientielles a permis de formuler les constats suivants : Besoin de santé: Le lymphœdème lié au cancer est relativement fréquent et apparaît principalement à la suite du traitement chirurgical d'un cancer (dissection ganglionnaire ou biopsie du ganglion sentinelle), mais également de traitements de radiothérapie; La majorité des lymphœdèmes liés au cancer se produisent dans les 2 ans suivant l'intervention oncologique, mais l'expérience clinique a démontré que certains patients développent des symptômes jusqu'à 20 ans plus tard; Le lymphœdème est une source d'anxiété importante omniprésente chez les patients. Contrairement au cancer, les patients n'ont aucun espoir de guérison de leur lymphœdème; Le nombre de personnes pouvant être atteintes de lymphœdème au Québec est difficile à quantifier. Selon la littérature, le risque de développer un lymphœdème à la suite d'une dissection axillaire ou d'une radiothérapie pour le traitement du cancer du sein est estimé à 15 %, ce qui pourrait représenter entre 635 et 1 074 nouveaux cas de lymphoedème au Québec annuellement (lymphoedème lié au cancer du sein uniquement). La modification des pratiques chirurgicales pour le traitement du cancer du sein comme l'avènement de la biopsie du ganglion sentinelle tend à diminuer le nombre de nouveaux cas potentiels de lymphœdème depuis quelques années. Prise en charge: La prise en charge des patients atteints de lymphœdème lié au cancer semble compromise par le manque de connaissances de la part des professionnels de la santé et des autres intervenants, l'accès limité à l'information et l'absence de trajectoire de soins pour cette condition; La thérapie décongestive complexe est le traitement actuellement proposé aux patients atteints de lymphœdème lié au cancer de stade précoce à avancé. Elle représente un fardeau important pour les patients; L'accès à la thérapie décongestive complexe est restreint en raison d'un nombre limité de thérapeutes certifiés pratiquant cette intervention. Ceux-ci travaillent majoritairement en clinique privée, ce qui oblige un investissement financier important de la part du patient; Le degré d'observance des patients quant à la thérapie décongestive complexe semble être variable en raison du nombre important de soins au quotidien. Les autodrainages, le port de vêtements de compression, les soins de la peau ainsi que les exercices occupent une bonne partie de la journée des patients; La thérapie décongestive complexe pourrait permettre de maintenir un volume réduit du membre atteint sans toutefois restaurer le réseau lymphatique lésé; Les microchirurgies pourraient représenter une alternative, ou un complément, qui permettrait de prévenir ou d'améliorer les symptômes de certains patients atteints de lymphœdème lié au cancer en restaurant le réseau lymphatique lésé. État de la pratique des microchirurgies au Québec: Actuellement, aucun établissement n'offre la reconstruction lymphatique immédiate dans le but de prévenir les lymphœdèmes liés au cancer; Deux établissements de santé montréalais offrent la pratique de microchirurgies afin de traiter les patients atteints de lymphœdème au moyen de la technique d'anastomose lymphoveineuse ou du transfert de ganglions lymphatiques vascularisés; Un troisième établissement est actuellement en élaboration d'un projet afin d'acquérir l'équipement nécessaire pour pratiquer la reconstruction lymphatique immédiate, l'anastomose lymphoveineuse et le transfert de ganglions lymphatiques vascularisés; Trois chirurgiens plasticiens sont surspécialisés dans la pratique des microchirurgies à des fins de prévention et (ou) de traitement du lymphœdème. Le nombre de patients actuellement traités demeure minime à ce jour. Selon les experts consultés, une offre de service de microchirurgies thérapeutiques devrait être concentrée dans certains centres spécialisés disposant de l'expertise et de l'équipement nécessaires; Considérant la pratique des dissections ganglionnaires dans un nombre élevé de centres partout sur le territoire québécois et la difficulté de sélectionner les patients qui pourraient le plus en bénéficier, il serait difficilement envisageable d'offrir la reconstruction lymphatique immédiate à tous les patients potentiellement à risque de développer un lymphœdème; L'ajout de la reconstruction lymphatique immédiate aux patients atteints de cancer pourrait augmenter le temps opératoire et allonger les délais d'accès à la chirurgie aux patients atteints de cancer et même, à d'autres populations nécessitant une intervention chirurgicale. Appréciation du niveau de la preuve Scientifique: Bien qu'on retrouve quelques études sur le sujet, le niveau de preuve associé à l'évaluation de l'efficacité et de l'innocuité des microchirurgies pour la prévention ou le traitement du lymphœdème associé au cancer du sein est jugé faible. Plusieurs limites et variations méthodologiques rendent la généralisation des données disponibles extrêmement difficile; Les données disponibles sont insuffisantes pour évaluer l'efficacité des microchirurgies pour les lymphœdèmes liés aux autres types de cancer; Pour ces raisons, les constats qui suivent concernent uniquement les microchirurgies pour la prévention et le traitement du lymphœdème lié au cancer du sein. MISE À JOUR DES RECOMMANDATIONS: La pertinence de mettre à jour le présent avis sera évaluée et déterminée en fonction de l'apport de nouvelles données en soutien à l'une ou l'autre des dimensions abordées dans cet avis, notamment la publication des résultats des essais cliniques en cours ainsi que la collecte de données en contexte québécois.

INTRODUCTION: Cancer-related lymphedema is a complication caused by dysfunction of the lymphatic system following certain oncologic treatments or by the cancer itself, the most common of which are breast, gynecological, skin and urogenital cancers. It can occur after surgical treatment of cancer such as lymph node dissection or sentinel node biopsy, but also following radiotherapy treatments. The main manifestations are swelling of the affected limb or area, which may be accompanied by a feeling of heaviness, stiffness or pain and a decrease in mobility. Lymphedema can also induce physical morbidity and cause psychological distress in patients, which can significantly affect their social relationships and quality of life. In addition, individuals are at greater risk of experiencing episodes of cellulitis and lymphangitis, which can increase the frequency of hospitalization and the costs associated with treatment. The current treatment offered to people with lymphedema is complex decongestive therapy. This involves, among other things, manual drainage and the wearing of compression garments, which are generally necessary for the rest of the patient's life. Although this therapy can, in some cases, reduce and maintain a reduced volume of the affected limb, it does not restore the damaged lymphatic network. Microsurgery could be an alternative to restore the damaged lymphatic network and thus prevent and improve the symptoms of people with cancer-related lymphedema. Among these microsurgeries is Lymphatic Microsurgical Preventing Healing Approach (LYMPHA). This is performed at the same time as the oncology surgery, before the onset of lymphedema. Lymphaticovenous anastomosis and vascularized lymph node transfer are, for their part, therapeutic microsurgeries performed on patients with lymphedema. BACKGROUND: Given the potential benefits of LYMPHA, lymphaticovenous anastomosis, and vascularized lymph node transfer for the prevention and treatment of cancer-related lymphedema, INESSS was mandated to evaluate the clinical relevance of these microsurgeries in Quebec health care institutions and, if appropriate, to make recommendations regarding the organization of this service offering in Quebec. METHODOLOGY: A systematic review of data from the literature was conducted to document the efficacy and safety of various microsurgeries. The literature considered includes cancer patients of all types and stages who have undergone microsurgery to prevent or cure lymphedema. Stakeholder consultations, including clinical experts as well as patients were conducted. Clinical and administrative data were also analyzed to obtain a portrait of the problem in Quebec, to evaluate the costs of microsurgery and the budgetary impact that microsurgery could have if it were implemented in our health care system. All of the data were integrated to produce findings to which a level of evidence was attached. These findings, along with proposed recommendations, were submitted to INESSS Comité délibératif permanent ­ Modes d'intervention en santé (standing deliberative committee on health care interventions) for deliberation in order to formulate the final recommendations. FINDINGS: The integration of scientific, contextual, and experiential data resulted in the following findings: Health needs: Cancer-related lymphedema is relatively common and occurs primarily following surgical treatment of cancer (lymph node dissection or sentinel node biopsy), but also following radiation treatments. The majority of cancer-related lymphedema occurs within 2 years of cancer surgery, but clinical experience has shown that some patients develop symptoms up to 20 years later. Lymphedema is a pervasive and significant source of anxiety for patients. Unlike cancer, patients have no hope of recovery from lymphedema. The number of people who may have lymphedema in Quebec is difficult to quantify. According to the literature, the risk of developing lymphedema following axillary dissection or radiation therapy for breast cancer is estimated to be 15%, which could represent between 635 and 1074 new cases of lymphedema in Quebec annually (breast cancer-related lymphedema only). Changes in surgical practices for the treatment of breast cancer, such as the advent of sentinel node biopsy, have tended to decrease the number of potential new cases of lymphedema in recent years. MANAGEMENT: Management of patients with cancer-related lymphedema appears to be compromised by a lack of knowledge among health care professionals and other participants, limited access to information, and the absence of a care pathway for this condition. Complex decongestive therapy is the current treatment offered to patients with early to advanced cancer-related lymphedema. It represents a significant burden for patients. Access to complex decongestive therapy is limited due to a limited number of certified therapists performing this procedure. Most of them work in private clinics, which requires a significant financial investment from the patient. Patient compliance with complex decongestive therapy appears to be variable due to the large amount of daily care. Self-drainage, compression garments, skin care and exercise occupy a large part of the patient's day. Complex decongestive therapy could maintain a reduced volume of the affected limb without restoring the injured lymphatic network. Microsurgeries could be an alternative, or an adjunct, to prevent or improve symptoms in some patients with cancer-related lymphedema by restoring the injured lymphatic network. STATUS OF MICROSURGERY PRACTICE IN QUEBEC: Currently, no facilities offer LYMPHA to prevent cancer-related lymphedema. Two Montreal health care facilities offer microsurgeries to treat patients with lymphedema using the lymphaticovenous anastomosis or vascularized lymph node transfer. A third facility is currently developing a project to acquire the necessary equipment to perform LYMPHA, lymphaticovenous anastomosis and vascularized lymph node transfer. Three plastic surgeons are subspecialized in microsurgeries for the prevention and/or treatment of lymphedema. The number of patients currently treated remains minimal. According to the experts consulted, the provision of therapeutic microsurgeries services should be concentrated in certain specialized centres having the necessary expertise and equipment. Considering that the practice of lymph node dissections exists in a large number of centres throughout Quebec and the difficulty of selecting the patients who could most benefit from it, it would be difficult to consider offering LYMPHA to all patients potentially at risk of developing lymphedema. The addition of LYMPHA to cancer patients could increase operative time and lengthen surgery waiting time for cancer patients and even other populations requiring surgery. UPDATING THE RECOMMENDATIONS: The relevance of updating this advisory will be evaluated and determined based on the contribution of new data in support of any of the dimensions addressed in this advisory, particularly the publication of the results of ongoing clinical trials and the collection of data in the Quebec context.

Experience in a rehabilitation center for mastectomized women at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE: Describe the experience lived in an interdisciplinary follow-up care center for mastectomized women at a public university in São Paulo during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD: Experience report on the health care provided in the health center for mastectomized women. RESULTS: The care was provided three times a week by an interdisciplinary health team. The mentioned areas that cover the women care in the center: Physical, Psychological, Social Support and Health Education. CONCLUSIONS: The attention by an interdisciplinary team becomes prevalent in the care of mastectomized women, since cancer and its treatment produce various changes in women's lives in the short and long term, so follow-up and support must be biopsychosocial, covering all areas that may be affected, especially during the pandemic.

Sistema de selección de sistemas elastocompresivos en personas con cáncer de mama de un hospital con recursos limitados / Selection system for elastocompressive systems in people with breast cancer from a hospital with limited resources

El cáncer de mama es un problema de salud pública en Chile. El linfedema es un trastorno linfovascular secundario a la extirpación de los ganglios linfáticos por cirugía en el cáncer de mama, que produce un aumento del volumen y la fibrosis en el miembro superior. Diferentes prendas de compresión son usadas para la prevención y el tratamiento del linfedema. Por eso, el programa de Garantías Ex-plícitas en Salud garantiza la entrega de sistemas elastocompresivos a las personas con diagnóstico de cáncer de mama para prevenir y tratar el linfedema. Sin embargo, en hospitales públicos los sistemas elastocompresivos pueden ser recursos limitados, por eso, muchas veces se deben priorizar. Este artículo tiene por objetivo describir un sistema de selección de sistemas elastocompresivos en personas con diagnóstico de cáncer de mama en el modelo de atención kinesiológico temprano y prospectivo.

Breast cancer is a public health problem in Chile. Lymphedema is a lymphovascular disorder secondary to the removal of lymph nodes by surgery in breast cancer, resulting in increased volume and fibrosis in the upper limb. Different compression garments are used for the prevention and treatment of lymphedema. Therefore, the "Garantías Explícitas en Salud" program guarantees the delivery of compression garments to people diagnosed with breast cancer to prevent and treat lymphedema. However, in public hospitals, the compression garments can be limited resources, so they often need to be prioritized. This article aims to describe the selection system for compression garments in people diagnosed with breast cancer in the early and prospective physical therapy care model.

Cuidado de enfermagem na perspectiva do mundo da vida da mulher-que-vivencia-linfedema-decorrente-do-tratamento-de-câncer-de-mama / Atención en enfermería en la perspectiva de mundo de la vida de la mujer-que-vivencia-linfedema-decorrente-del-tratamiento-de-cáncer-de-mama / Nursing care on the world of life perspective of women-who-experience-lymphedema-resulting-from the-breast cancer-treatment

RESUMO Objetivo Desvelar sentidos da mulher na vivência do linfedema decorrente do tratamento de câncer de mama e analisar propostas de cuidado na perspectiva do mundo da vida dessa mulher. Método Estudo fenomenológico, fundamentado no referencial teórico e metodológico de Martin Heidegger. Os cenários de pesquisa foram o Hospital Ascomcer e a Fundação Cristiano Varella, ambos em Minas Gerais, Brasil. Procedeu-se entrevista fenomenológica com 13 mulheres que vivenciavam o linfedema por câncer de mama. Resultados As mulheres mostraram-se envergonhadas e chateadas com o braço sem estética. Ficam deprimidas, perdem a autoestima e tentam disfarçar, mas nem sempre é possível. Em alguns momentos, preferem não sair de casa. Sentem dificuldade de comprar roupas que se ajustem no braço edemaciado. O ser-aí-mulher-que-vivencia-o-linfedema-em-decorrência-do-tratamento-de-câncer-de-mama revela-se na aparência e na impessoalidade. O linfedema implica em mudanças físicas visíveis a todos, porém está oculta as dificuldades vividas pelo ser-mulher no cotidiano assistencial. Conclusão e implicações para a prática Cabe ao Enfermeiro considerar a percepção da mulher sobre si mesma em relação a sua imagem corporal para ampliar a sua prática profissional e buscar repensar estratégias de cuidado que aumentem a autoestima e melhorem sua qualidade de vida.

RESUMEN Objetivo Desvelar sentidos de la mujer en vivencia del linfedema resultante del tratamiento de cáncer de mama y analizar propuestas de cuidado en la perspectiva de mundo de la vida de esa mujer. Método Estudio fenomenológico, fundamentado en el referencial teórico y metodológico de Martin Heidegger. Los escenarios de investigación fueron el Hospital Ascomcer y la Fundación Cristiano Varella, ambos en Minas Gerais, Brasil. Se realizó entrevista fenomenológica con trece mujeres que vivían el linfedema. Resultados Las mujeres se mostraron avergonzadas y aburridas con el brazo sin estética. Se quedan deprimidas, pierden la autoestima e intentan disimular, pero no siempre es posible. En algunos momentos prefieren no salir de casa. Sienten dificultad para comprar ropa que se ajuste en el brazo edemaciado. El ser-ahí-mujer-que-vivencia-el-linfedema-en-consecuencia-del-tratamiento-de-cáncer-de-mama se revela en la apariencia e impersonalidad. El linfedema implica cambios físicos visibles a todos, pero está oculto en las dificultades vividas por el ser-mujer en el cotidiano asistencial. Conclusión e implicaciones para la práctica Cabe al enfermero considerar la percepción de la mujer sobre sí misma en relación a su imagen corporal para ampliar su práctica profesional y buscar repensar estrategias de cuidado que aumenten su autoestima y mejoren su calidad de vida.

Abstract Objective To unveil the woman's senses in the experience of lymphedema resulting from the treatment of breast cancer and analyze care proposals from the perspective of this woman's world of life. Method a phenomenological study, based on the theoretical and methodological reference of Martin Heidegger. The research scenarios were the Ascomcer Hospital and the Cristiano Varella Foundation, both in Minas Gerais, Brazil. A phenomenological interview was conducted with thirteen women who experienced lymphedema due to breast cancer. Results The women were ashamed and annoyed with the arm without esthetics. They become depressed, lose self-esteem and try to disguise, but it is not always possible. At times, they prefer not to leave the house. They find it difficult to buy clothes that fit in the swollen arm. The being-there-woman-who-experiences-the-lymphoedema-in-treatment-of-breast-cancer is revealed in appearance and impersonality. Lymphedema implies physical changes visible to all, but the difficulties experienced by the being-woman in daily care are hidden. Conclusion and implications for practice It is up to the nurse to consider the woman's perception about herself in relation to her body image to broaden her professional practice and seek to rethink care strategies that increase self-esteem and improve her quality of life.

Tratamiento quirúrgico del linfedema de miembro superior postratamiento del cáncer de mama / Surgical treatment of lymphedema of the upper limb after breast cancer

Introducción. El linfedema de miembro superior postratamiento del cáncer de mama es una afección progresiva y crónica que compromete a una gran cantidad de pacientes causando efectos físicos, psicológicos y sociales. El linfedema secundario se da en un 20-40% de los casos luego de la cirugía del cáncer de mama con vaciamiento y radioterapia. Este es un problema desafiante. El tratamiento conservador ha demostrado no ser suficientemente exitoso por lo que su tratamiento quirúrgico es una buena opción. La transferencia microquirúrgica de nódulo linfático vascularizado (TNLV) brindó una nueva esperanza para este grupo de pacientes. Material y métodos. En el periodo comprendido entre marzo 2016 y agosto 2018 se analizaron 16 pacientes con una edad promedio de 50,25. Se realizó tratamiento quirúrgico basándose en la transferencia de nódulo linfático vascularizado (TNLV) de la ingle a la axila por medio de una anastomosis microquirúrgica de la arteria circunfleja ilíaca superficial en pacientes que presentaron linfedema secundario al tratamiento del cáncer de mama. Se realizó simultáneamente a la cirugía reconstructiva de la mama con colgajo libre DIEP y también en un segundo tiempo quirúrgico. Tiempo quirúrgico de 4,3 horas y una estadía en internación de 2,3 días. Resultados. La vitalidad de los colgajos fue 100%. Como morbilidad, se presentaron cuatro casos de seroma, una infección y una dehiscencia en la zona dadora. Con un seguimiento promedio de 10,43 meses y una reducción significativa de volumen del miembro afectado del 27.47% en comparación con el preoperatorio. La incidencia de celulitis descendió. La linfografía posoperatoria indicó una mejoría en el drenaje linfático del miembro afectado. Conclusiones. La transferencia linfática vascularizada al miembro afectado en conjunto con la cirugía reconstructiva mamaria DIEP es un procedimiento seguro y eficaz en el tratamiento del linfedema de miembro superior en pacientes mastectomizadas con vaciamiento ganglionar y radioterapia.

Purpose: Upper limb lymphedema post breast cancer treatment is a progressive and chronic condition that involves a large number of patients causing psychological, physical and social effects. The incidence of secondary lymphedema is about 20-40% before breast cancer treatment. This is a challenging problem. The conservative treatment has shown not to be successful enough so the surgery is a really good option. The vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) offers some hope to this group of patients. The purpose of the investigation is to demonstrate that te VLNT is an efficacious approach to treating postmastectomy upper limb lymphedema. Methods: From March 2016 to August 2018 were analyzed sixteen patients with a mean age of 50.25 years. They all have secondary lymphedema. They underwent surgical treatment based on vascularized lymph node transfer from the groin to the axially area or elbow as a recipent site. The deep inferior epigastric perforator flap was made at the same time, as a stacked flap. In only six cases, the VLNT was made on a second surgical time. The serrato's vessels were used as a recipient vessels in the axilary area and a radial artery branch and the cephalic vein were used in the elbow. Results: The flaps vitality was 100%. There were four seroma cases, one infection and one dehiscence. At a mean follow up of 10.43, the mean circumference reduction rate of the lymphedematous limb was about 27.47% between the preoperative and the postoperative groups. The postoperative lymphoscintigrapy showed a little improvement. The follow up of the vitality of the nodes was made by a lymphatic contrast tomography, and it showed all nodes survived. Conclusions: The vascularized lymph node transfer and the DIEP flap were confirmed as an effective and safe treatment to the secondary lymphedema in this type of patients, and it really improves postmastectomy upper limb lymphedema

Influence of vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) flap positioning on the response to breast cancer-related lymphedema treatment. / Influência do posicionamento do retalho linfonodal vascularizado na resposta ao tratamento cirúrgico do linfedema secundário ao câncer de mama.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the initial therapeutic experience of transplantation of vascularized lymph nodes in patients with lymphedema of the upper limbs secondary to the treatment of breast cancer, and to verify if the positioning of the transplant influences the surgical result. METHODS: we conducted a prospective, comparative test of two therapeutic modalities, with 24 patients with lymphedema of the upper limb after breast cancer treatment, classified as grades 2 and 3, according to the International Lymphedema Society. The two types of procedures performed were: 1) total breast reconstruction with - deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap associated with lymph node flap, in patients with no previous breast reconstruction or loss of previous reconstruction (axillary positioning); 2) isolated inguinal lymph node flap performed in patients with completed breast reconstruction or without the desire to perform the breast reconstruction (wrist positioning). RESULTS: the reduction percentage of the affected limb volume was 20.1% (p=0.0370). The number of infectious episodes (cellulites) also decreased significantly, from 41% in the preoperative period to 12.5% in the postoperative one (p=0.004). There were no differences between the proximal and distal groups. CONCLUSION: the transplantation of lymph nodes positively affected the postoperative evolution of patients with lymphedema secondary to breast cancer. We observed no differences in relation to flap positioning.

OBJETIVO: analisar a experiência terapêutica inicial do transplante de linfonodos vascularizados em pacientes portadoras de linfedema de membros superiores secundário ao tratamento do câncer de mama e verificar se o posicionamento do transplante influencia o resultado cirúrgico. MÉTODOS: ensaio prospectivo, comparativo, de duas modalidades terapêuticas em 24 pacientes portadoras de linfedema de membro superior após tratamento de câncer mamário, classificados como graus 2 e 3, segundo a Sociedade Internacional de Linfedema. Os dois tipos de procedimentos realizados foram: 1) reconstrução total da mama com retalho de perfurante da artéria epigástrica inferior (DIEP- deep inferior epigastric perforator flap) associado ao retalho linfonodal, em pacientes sem reconstrução mamária prévia ou com histórico de perda da reconstrução (posicionamento axilar); 2) retalho linfonodal inguinal isolado foi realizado em pacientes com reconstrução mamária finalizada ou sem o desejo de realizar a reconstrução da mama (posicionamento no punho). RESULTADOS: a porcentagem de redução do volume do membro afetado foi de 20,1% (p=0,0370). O número de episódios infecciosos (celulites) também sofreu redução significativa, de 41% no período pré-operatório para 12,5% no pós-operatório (p=0,004). Não foram observadas diferenças entre os grupos proximal e distal. CONCLUSÃO: o transplante de linfonodos afetou positivamente a evolução pós-operatória de pacientes portadoras de linfedema secundário ao câncer de mama. Não foram observadas diferenças em relação ao posicionamento do retalho.

Prevalência de linfedema após mastectomia em portadoras de câncer de mama: uma revisão sistemática acerca da influência da reconstrução imediata / Prevalence of lymphedema after mastectomy in women living with breast cancer: a systematic review of the influence of immediate reconstruction

Este estudo objetivou analisar, por meio de uma revisão sistemática da literatura, a influência da reconstrução imediata na prevalência de linfedema após mastectomia em pacientes portadoras de câncer de mama. Foram analisados os mais relevantes estudos publicados originalmente em qualquer idioma até agosto de 2018, indexados às bases de dados US National Library of Medicine, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science e Scientific Electronic Library Online. A amostra foi composta por 10 publicações que se adequaram aos critérios de inclusão e exclusão estabelecidos, incluindo 2.425 pacientes submetidas a apenas mastectomia e 2.772 pacientes submetidas à mastectomia associada à reconstrução imediata da mama. A prevalência de linfedema foi 20,95% nas pacientes submetidas a apenas mastectomia (n = 508) e de 5,23% nas pacientes submetidas à mastectomia associada à reconstrução imediata (n = 145), havendo diferença estatisticamente significativa (p < 0,001). Concluiu-se que a mastectomia associada à reconstrução imediata influencia positivamente o prognóstico das pacientes portadoras de câncer de mama, proporcionando um índice significativamente menor de linfedema, quando comparada à realização de apenas mastectomia.

This study aimed to analyze, through systematic review of literature, the influence of immediate reconstruction on the prevalence of lymphedema after mastectomy, in women living with breast cancer. The analysis considered the most relevant studies originally published, in any language, up to August 2018, indexed on the databases of the US National Library of Medicine, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and Scientific Electronic Library Online. The sample comprised 10 publications that met the established criteria for inclusion and exclusion, including 2,425 patients who were subjected to mastectomy alone, and 2,772 patients who were subjected to mastectomy associated with immediate reconstruction of the breast. The prevalence of lymphedema was 20.95% in patients who had been subjected to mastectomy alone (n = 508), and 5.23% among those patients who were subjected to mastectomy associated with immediate reconstruction of the breast (n = 145), the difference being statistically significant (p < 0.001). We concluded that mastectomy, when associated with immediate breast reconstruction, has a positive influence on the prognosis of patients living with breast cancer, thereby providing a much lower rate of lymphedema when compared with mastectomy alone.

Linfedema asociado al cáncer de mama: factores de riesgo, diagnóstico y tratamiento quirúrgico / Breast cancer related lymphedema: risk factors, diagnosis and surgical treatment

Resumen El linfedema asociado al cáncer de mama es una de las complicaciones más subestimadas y debilitantes del tratamiento de esta entidad. Ocurre como resultado de la interrupción del flujo linfático en asociación a otros factores. La incidencia varía dependiendo del tipo tratamiento recibido, existiendo mayor riesgo en los casos en los que se realiza mastectomía total, disección axilar, radioterapia, y en los pacientes en los cuales los ganglios están positivos para cáncer, hubo una mayor cantidad de linfonodos resecados, se utilizaron taxanos o padecen de obesidad. El diagnóstico clínico y a través de técnicas de imágenes es fundamental para evaluar el estado funcional del sistema linfático. Los objetivos principales en el manejo del linfedema son limitar la morbilidad del paciente, mejorar la funcionalidad y la calidad de vida. Existen procedimientos que buscan prevenir el desarrollo del linfedema asociado al cáncer de mama. Una vez establecido, el tratamiento puede ser conservador y quirúrgico. El tratamiento quirúrgico incluye procedimientos fisiológicos (reconstructivos) y resectivos. El éxito depende de una buena selección de los pacientes y la realización de un tratamiento individualizado. A continuación, se presenta una revisión en cuanto a la incidencia, factores de riesgo, estrategias diagnósticas y técnicas quirúrgicas con énfasis en el tratamiento microquirúrgico.

Breast cancer related lymphedema is one of the most underestimated and debilitating complications of the treatment of this entity. Occurs as result of the interruption of the lymphatic flow in association with other factors. The incidence varies depending on the type of treatment received; being a higher risk in cases in which total mastectomy, axillary dissection, radiotherapy are performed; and in patients in whom the lymph nodes are positive for cancer, there was a greater number of harvested lymph nodes, taxanes were used or in obese patients. Clinical diagnosis and imaging techniques are essential to assess the functional status of the lymphatic system. The main objectives in the management of lymphedema are to limit patient morbidity, improve functionality and quality of life. There are procedures that seek to prevent the development of breast cancer related lymphedema. Once established, the treatment can be conservative and surgical. Surgical treatment includes physiological (reconstructive) and excisional procedures. Success depends on a good selection of patients and the performance of an individualized treatment. The following is a review regarding the incidence, risk factors, diagnostic strategies and surgical techniques with emphasis on microsurgical treatment.

Intra- and Interrater Reliability and Concurrent Validity of a New Tool for Assessment of Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema of the Upper Extremity.

OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study was to develop and assess intra- and interrater reliability and validity of a clinical evaluation tool for breast cancer-related lymphedema, for use in the context of outcome evaluation in clinical trials. DESIGN: Blinded repeated measures observational study. SETTING: Outpatient research laboratory. PARTICIPANTS: Breast cancer survivors with and without lymphedema (N=71). INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: The assessment of intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for the Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema of the Upper Extremity (CLUE) standardized clinical evaluation tool. RESULTS: Intrarater reliability for the CLUE tool was ICC: 0.88 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.71-0.96). Interrater reliability for the CLUE tool was ICC: 0.90 (95% CI, 0.79-0.95). Concurrent validity of the CLUE score (Pearson r) was 0.79 with perometric interlimb difference and 0.53 with the Norman lymphedema overall score. CONCLUSIONS: The CLUE tool shows excellent inter- and intrarater reliability. The overall CLUE score for the upper extremity also shows moderately strong concurrent validity with objective and subjective measures. This newly developed clinical, physical assessment of upper extremity lymphedema provides standardization and a single score that accounts for multiple constructs. Next steps include evaluation of sensitivity to change, which would establish usefulness to evaluate intervention efficacy.

Does the speed of aquatic therapy exercise alter arm volume in women with breast cancer related lymphoedema? A cross-over randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To identify whether slow aquatic exercise in the form of modified Ai Chi is more effective than conventional (faster pace) aquatic therapy at reducing arm volume in women with or at risk of breast cancer related lymphoedema. METHODS: Randomized, cross-over controlled trial with concealed allocation and blinded assessment. Eighteen women with a history of breast cancer related lymphoedema were recruited. Participants received two intervention sessions (randomized order) with one week apart. Interventions were a 50min conventional aquatic intervention or a 50min modified Ai Chi. Arm volume was measured as the difference between affected and unaffected arm; bio-impedance was measured as an index of extracellular fluid; satisfaction was measured via a 12 question form. Outcomes were measured before, immediately after and one hour after intervention. RESULTS: Comparison between interventions showed larger decreased arm volume of 140mL (95%CI 17-263) immediately after intervention in favor of the Ai Chi intervention, however it was not sustained at 1h follow-up. A post hoc analysis showed 72% of participants had a decrease in arm volume immediately after Ai Chi compared to 28% immediately after conventional aquatic therapy; with a number needed to treat of 3 (95%CI 1.4-6.6). There were no differences between interventions for bio-impedance. Satisfaction was good for both interventions. CONCLUSION: Slow pace aquatic exercise is more effective than conventional aquatic exercise immediately after intervention for arm volume. Also, undesirable increase in arm volume seems to subside after 1h, which can be beneficial if therapy does not address arm volume. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ACTRN12614000557639 (https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12614000557639).

Prevenção e Cuidado do Linfedema após Câncer de Mama: Entendimento e Adesão às Orientações Fisioterapêuticas / Prevention and Care of Lymphedema after Breast Cancer: Understanding and Adherence to Physiotherapeutic Guidelines / Prevención y Cuidado del Linfedema después del Cáncer de Mama: Comprensión y Adhesión a las Orientaciones Fisioterapéuticas

Introdução: O linfedema é a complicação mais frequente após a cirurgia do câncer de mama. A intervenção fisioterapêutica precoce é fundamental para melhorar a qualidade de vida e prevenir tal sequela, porém as orientações preventivas podem gerar um sentimento de incapacidade e limitação. Objetivo: Identificar o nível de compreensão e a adesão das pacientes às orientações fisioterapêuticas na prevenção e cuidado do linfedema. Método: Pesquisa descritiva, qualitativa, realizada no Hospital do Câncer III do Instituto Nacional de Câncer José Alencar Gomes da Silva (INCA). Foram incluídas 14 pacientes, submetidas a tratamento cirúrgico para o câncer de mama, sendo realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas. Resultados: As pacientes entrevistadas relataram que receberam orientações da equipe de fisioterapia e compreenderam a importância das recomendações. Os principais sentimentos despertados, ao serem questionadas sobre a adesão aos cuidados preventivos, foram a preocupação, o medo e o pânico, além do fantasma do linfedema. As entrevistadas reconheceram que, logo após a cirurgia, aderiram mais aos cuidados preventivos, mas que com o passar do tempo, essa rotina de cuidados tornou-se mais complicada, especialmente diante de seus compromissos domésticos. Conclusão: Pôde-se perceber que essas mulheres convivem com um grande medo de desenvolver o linfedema, porém têm a forte necessidade de retomar suas tarefas domésticas. Foi marcante nas falas o quanto as orientações fisioterapêuticas geram angústia, tristeza e sensação de inutilidade nessas mulheres. A fisioterapia deve estar atenta à maneira como apresenta as orientações preventivas de linfedema, devendo buscar sempre a adaptação e nunca a proibição, de forma a trazer compreensão e promover a cooperação, compartilhando com as mulheres a responsabilidade por seu autocuidado.

Introduction: Lymphedema is the most common complication after breast cancer surgery. Early physiotherapeutic intervention is essential to improve quality of life and prevent such sequelae, but preventive guidelines can generate a feeling of incapacity and limitation. Objective: To identify the level of understanding and adherence of patients to physiotherapeutic guidelines in the prevention and care of lymphedema. Method: Descriptive, qualitative research, performed at Hospital de Cancer III the National Cancer Institute José Alencar Gomes da Silva (INCA). Fourteen patients were submitted to surgical treatment for breast cancer, and semi-structured interviews were performed. Results: The patients interviewed reported that they received guidance from the physiotherapy team and understood the importance of the recommendations. The main feelings aroused when asked about adherence to preventive care were worry, fear and panic, as well as the phantom of lymphedema. The interviewees recognized that soon after the surgery, they adhered more to preventive care, but that with the passage of time, this routine of care became more complicated, especially in front of their domestic commitments. Conclusion: We can see that these women coexist with a great fear of developing lymphedema, but they have a strong need to resume their domestic tasks. It was remarkable in the speeches how much the physiotherapeutic orientations generate anguish, sadness and sense of uselessness in these women. Physiotherapy should be attentive to the way it presents the preventive guidelines for lymphedema, and should always seek adaptation and never prohibition, in order to bring understanding and promote cooperation, sharing with women the responsibility for their self-care.

Introducción: El linfedema es la complicación más frecuente después de la cirugía del cáncer de mama. La intervención fisioterapéutica precoz es fundamental para mejorar la calidad de vida y prevenir tal secuela, sin embargo, las orientaciones preventivas pueden generar un sentimiento de incapacidad y limitación. Objetivo:Identificar el nivel de comprensión y adhesión de las pacientes a las orientaciones fisioterapéuticas en la prevención y cuidado del linfedema. Método: Investigación descriptiva, cualitativa, realizada en el Hospital del Cáncer III del Instituto Nacional de Cáncer José Alencar Gomes da Silva (INCA). Se incluyeron 14 pacientes, sometidos a tratamiento quirúrgico para el cáncer de mama, realizándose entrevistas semiestructuradas. Resultados: Las pacientes entrevistadas relataron que recibieron orientaciones del equipo de fisioterapia y comprendieron la importancia de las recomendaciones. Los principales sentimientos despertados al ser cuestionados sobre la adhesión a los cuidados preventivos fueron la preocupación, el miedo y el pánico, además del fantasma del linfedema. Las entrevistadas reconocieron que luego de la cirugía, se adhirieron más a los cuidados preventivos, pero que, con el paso del tiempo, esa rutina de cuidados se volvió más complicada, especialmente ante sus compromisos domésticos. Conclusión: Se puede percibir que esas mujeres conviven con un gran miedo a desarrollar el linfedema, pero tienen la fuerte necesidad de reanudar sus tareas domésticas. Fue marcante en las conversaciones cuanto las orientaciones fisioterapéuticas generan angustia, tristeza y sensación de inutilidad en esas mujeres. La fisioterapia debe estar atenta a la manera como presenta las orientaciones preventivas de linfedema, debiendo buscar siempre la adaptación y nunca la prohibición, para traer comprensión y promover la cooperación, compartiendo con las mujeres la responsabilidad por su autocuidado.

Influência do posicionamento do retalho linfonodal vascularizado na resposta ao tratamento cirúrgico do linfedema secundário ao câncer de mama / Influence of vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) flap positioning on the response to breast cancer-related lymphedema treatment

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar a experiência terapêutica inicial do transplante de linfonodos vascularizados em pacientes portadoras de linfedema de membros superiores secundário ao tratamento do câncer de mama e verificar se o posicionamento do transplante influencia o resultado cirúrgico. Métodos: ensaio prospectivo, comparativo, de duas modalidades terapêuticas em 24 pacientes portadoras de linfedema de membro superior após tratamento de câncer mamário, classificados como graus 2 e 3, segundo a Sociedade Internacional de Linfedema. Os dois tipos de procedimentos realizados foram: 1) reconstrução total da mama com retalho de perfurante da artéria epigástrica inferior (DIEP- deep inferior epigastric perforator flap) associado ao retalho linfonodal, em pacientes sem reconstrução mamária prévia ou com histórico de perda da reconstrução (posicionamento axilar); 2) retalho linfonodal inguinal isolado foi realizado em pacientes com reconstrução mamária finalizada ou sem o desejo de realizar a reconstrução da mama (posicionamento no punho). Resultados: a porcentagem de redução do volume do membro afetado foi de 20,1% (p=0,0370). O número de episódios infecciosos (celulites) também sofreu redução significativa, de 41% no período pré-operatório para 12,5% no pós-operatório (p=0,004). Não foram observadas diferenças entre os grupos proximal e distal. Conclusão: o transplante de linfonodos afetou positivamente a evolução pós-operatória de pacientes portadoras de linfedema secundário ao câncer de mama. Não foram observadas diferenças em relação ao posicionamento do retalho.

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate the initial therapeutic experience of transplantation of vascularized lymph nodes in patients with lymphedema of the upper limbs secondary to the treatment of breast cancer, and to verify if the positioning of the transplant influences the surgical result. Methods: we conducted a prospective, comparative test of two therapeutic modalities, with 24 patients with lymphedema of the upper limb after breast cancer treatment, classified as grades 2 and 3, according to the International Lymphedema Society. The two types of procedures performed were: 1) total breast reconstruction with - deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap associated with lymph node flap, in patients with no previous breast reconstruction or loss of previous reconstruction (axillary positioning); 2) isolated inguinal lymph node flap performed in patients with completed breast reconstruction or without the desire to perform the breast reconstruction (wrist positioning). Results: the reduction percentage of the affected limb volume was 20.1% (p=0.0370). The number of infectious episodes (cellulites) also decreased significantly, from 41% in the preoperative period to 12.5% in the postoperative one (p=0.004). There were no differences between the proximal and distal groups. Conclusion: the transplantation of lymph nodes positively affected the postoperative evolution of patients with lymphedema secondary to breast cancer. We observed no differences in relation to flap positioning.

Sobrevivência e Fatores de Risco em Mulheres com Câncer de Mama: a Relação do Linfedema / Survival and Risk Factors in Women with Breast Cancer: the Relationship of Lymphedema / Supervivencia y Factores de Riesgo en Mujeres con Cáncer de Mama: la Relación del Linfedema

Introdução: O linfedema relacionado ao câncer de mama é a principal complicação dos tratamentos para essa neoplasia, acometendo o membro superior homolateral à mama comprometida. Objetivo: Analisar a incidência, fatores de risco e o impacto na sobrevida global do linfedema secundário ao câncer de mama. Método: Estudo de coorte retrospectivo com dados de 709 mulheres atendidas em núcleo de reabilitação de câncer de mama, entre 1989 e 2014. Realizou-se comparação de frequências absolutas categóricas com o teste qui-quadrado. As funções de sobrevida foram calculadas por meio do método de Kaplan Meier e o modelo de riscos proporcionais de Cox foi utilizado para avaliação de fatores prognósticos; utilizou-se a regressão logística para definir fatores associados à incidência de linfedema. Resultados: Predominaram mulheres brancas, média de idade de 61,5 anos. Das mulheres com linfedema (33,24%), 85,8% foram diagnosticadas em estadiamento avançado, maior frequência de linfadenectomia axilar (p=0,064) e baixa realização da biópsia de linfonodo sentinela (p<0,0001). No status de sobrevida, as mulheres com linfedema apresentaram maior frequência de óbito por causas relacionadas ao câncer (50,2%), com taxa de sobrevivência de 0,996 até cinco anos. As principais características preditoras ao óbito dessas mulheres foram o estadiamento avançado e a quantidade de linfonodos comprometidos. Conclusão: As mulheres com linfedema apresentaram maior chance de óbito por câncer do que o outro grupo, porém permaneceram vivas por período maior. O estadiamento avançado e a não realização da biópsia do linfonodo sentinela foram considerados fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento do linfedema e como características preditoras de óbito.

Introduction: Lymphedema related to breast cancer is the main complication of the treatments for this neoplasm, affecting the upper limb homolateral to the compromised breast. Objective: To analyze the incidence, risk factors and impact on overall survival of lymphedema secondary to breast cancer. Method: Retrospective cohort study with 709 women attended at a rehabilitation center for breast cancer, between 1989 and 2014. The categorical absolute frequencies were compared to the Chi-square test. Overall survival rate was calculated using Kaplan Meier method and the Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to evaluation of prognostic factors, the definition of indicators associated with lymphedema incidence was calculated with logistic regression. Results: White women predominated, mean age 61.5 years. Women with lymphedema (33.24%), 85.8% were diagnosed at an advanced stage, a higher frequency of axillary lymphadenectomy (p=0.064) and low sentinel lymph node biopsy (p<0.0001). In the survival status the women with lymphedema presented a higher death rate due to the cancer (50.2%), with a survival rate of 0.996 up to five years. Women death predictors were advanced cancer stage and the amount of compromised lymph nodes. Conclusion: Women with lymphedema present a greater chance to die from cancer than the other group, but they remain alive for a longer period. The advanced stage and non-performance of sentinel lymph node biopsy were considered risk factors for the development of lymphedema and the predictive characteristics of death.

Introducción: El linfedema relacionado con el cáncer de mama es la principal complicación de los tratamientos para esta neoplasia, afectando al miembro superior homolateral a la mama comprometida. Objetivo:Analizar la incidencia, factores de riesgo y impacto en la supervivencia global del linfedema secundario al cáncer de mama. Método: Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo con 709 mujeres atendidas en un núcleo de rehabilitación de cáncer, entre 1989 y 2014. Se realizó la comparación de sus series completas con la prueba Chi-cuadrado. Funciones de sobrevida fueran calculadas por método de Kaplan Meier y el modelo de evaluación de Cox fue utilizado para la evaluación de factores pronósticos, regresión logística fue usada para la definición de indicadores asociados al incidencia de linfedema. Resultados:Predominaron mujeres blancas, media de edad 61,5 años. Las mujeres con linfedema (33,24%), 85,8% fueron diagnosticadas en estadio avanzado, mayor frecuencia de linfadenectomía axilar (p=0,064) y baja realización de la biopsia de ganglio centinela (p<0,0001). En el estatus de sobrevida, mujeres con linfedema presentaron mayor frecuencia de muerte por cáncer (50,2%), con tasa de supervivencia de 0,996 hasta cinco años. Las características predictoras de muerte fueran estadio avanzado y la cantidad de ganglios linfáticos comprometidos. Conclusión: Las mujeres con linfedema presentan mayor probabilidad de muerte por cáncer que el otro grupo, sin embargo, permanecen vivas por período mayor. El estado avanzado y la no realización de la biopsia del ganglio centinela fueron considerados factores de riesgo para el desarrollo del linfedema y como características preditorias del óbito.

Profile of women with lymphedema after breast cancer treatment / Perfil de mujeres con linfedema en post tratamiento de cáncer de mama / Perfil de mulheres com linfedema no pós-tratamento de câncer de mama

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify the profile of women with lymphedema after breast cancer treatment. Methods: This is a descriptive, retrospective and quantitative study with data from medical records of women with lymphedema who began treatment between 2010 and 2015 in a rehabilitation center. An instrument was used for data collection to characterize the participants and analysis was performed by means of descriptive statistics, the Chi-Square test and Fisher's exact test. Results: 235 women with a mean age of 56.8 years were included, with an association between lymphedema and age (p = 0.016). It was observed that 76.6% of the sample had some comorbidity associated with breast cancer, especially hypertension (48.1%). They underwent radical surgery (60%), axillary lymphadenectomy (77.9%), sentinel lymph node biopsy (16.6%) and radiotherapy (74%). Treatments carried out for lymphedema were decongestant therapy and complementary treatments with 95.7% of adherence of women to therapies. Conclusion and implications for practice: Women with lymphedema presented risk factors such as radical surgery, axillary lymphadenectomy and radiotherapy, and good adherence to the required treatments of lymphedema. Knowing the profile of this population is crucial to the treatment choice.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Identificar el perfil de mujeres con linfedema después del tratamiento del cáncer de mama. Métodos Estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo y cuantitativo con datos de fichas médicas de mujeres con linfedema que fueron atendidas entre 2010 y 2015 en un núcleo de rehabilitación. Para la recogida de datos fue utilizado instrumento para caracterizar a las participantes y el análisis fue hecho por medio de estadística descriptiva con las pruebas de Chi-Cuadrado y Fisher. Resultados: Fueron incluidas 235 mujeres con edad media de 56,8 años, habiéndose encontrado asociación entre linfedema y edad (p = 0,016). Se observó que 76,6% de la muestra presentó alguna comorbilidad asociada al cáncer de mama con destaque para la hipertensión (48,1%). Fueron sometidas a cirugía radical (60%), a linfadenectomía axilar (77,9%), a biopsia del linfonodo centinela (16,6%) y a radioterapia (74%). Los tratamientos para cuidados con el linfedema fueron la terapia descongestiva y tratamientos complementarios con adhesión de 95,7% de las mujeres a las terapias. Conclusión e Implicaciones para la práctica: Las mujeres con linfedema presentaron factores de riesgo como cirugía radical, linfadenectomía axilar y radioterapia; se encontró buena adhesión a los tratamientos necesarios para el control del linfedema. Conocer el perfil de esta población es primordial para seleccionar los tratamientos.

RESUMO Objetivo: Identificar o perfil de mulheres com linfedema após tratamento do câncer de mama. Métodos: Estudo descritivo, retrospectivo e quantitativo com dados de prontuários de mulheres com linfedema que iniciaram atendimento entre 2010 e 2015 em um núcleo de reabilitação. Para coleta de dados foi utilizado instrumento para a caracterização das participantes e análise por meio de estatística descritiva e teste de Qui-Quadrado e Fisher. Resultados: Foram incluídas 235 mulheres com média de idade de 56,8 anos havendo associação entre linfedema e idade (p =0,016). Observou-se que 76,6% da amostra apresentaram alguma comorbidade associada ao câncer de mama com destaque para hipertensão (48,1%). Foram submetidas a cirurgia radical (60%), linfadenectomia axilar (77,9%), biopsia do linfonodo sentinela (16,6%) e radioterapia (74%). Os tratamentos para cuidados com o linfedema foram terapia descongestiva e tratamentos complementares com adesão de 95,7% das mulheres às terapias. Conclusão e Implicações para a prática: As mulheres com linfedema apresentaram fatores de risco como cirurgia radical, linfadenectomia axilar e radioterapia, e boa adesão aos tratamentos necessários para controle do linfedema. Conhecer o perfil dessa população é primordial para eleição de tratamentos.