Lymphedema impacts nearly 40% of women after breast cancer treatment. The condition involves limb and upper quadrant swelling which is naturally progressive over time if left untreated. The lymphatic system is unique in structure and functions from the circulatory system; the presentation of lymphedema is different than other forms of systemic swelling. Due to those nuances, it is necessary to recognize that swelling related to lymphatic system failure requires specialized knowledge and skills in clinical management.

Editor: Barbara Billek-Sawhney, PT, EdD, DPT, GCS

Learning Objectives:

1. develop an understanding of what lymphedema is and how this clinical condition develops related to breast cancer treatment.
2. identify the anatomical components and structure of the lymphatic system as it relates to the breast and upper quadrant.
3. identify risk factors for the development of lymphedema including treatment interventions and lifestyle activities.
4. deferentially diagnose breast cancer related lymphedema from other forms of systemic swelling conditions.
5. describe the signs and symptoms associated with adverse events in lymphedema including infections, blood clots, recurrent cancer, and swelling exacerbations.
6. synthesize knowledge to appropriately identify the hallmark skin and tissue changes associated with the varying stages of condition severity.
7. explain best practices for treatment interventions including the components of complete decongestive therapy and additional adjunctive therapies.
8. describe evidence based clinical measurement tools and patient-reported outcomes measures and recommend standardized use of those tools to support a clinical management plan.
9. identify and differentiate the precautions and contraindications for lymphedema management.
10. rationalize emerging evidence base for risk reduction and describe how to implement prospective models of care that promote early identification and intervention.

Course Instructions

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