Investigating the effectiveness of compression bandage applied with different pressures on the skin and subcutaneous tissue thickness in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema

The study evaluated the effectiveness of compression bandages applied with different pressures on the skin and subcutaneous tissue in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). The study concluded that high-pressure compression bandage was more effective in reducing skin and subcutaneous tissue thickness and inflammation in patients with BCRL. 

Lymphedema is the accumulation of fluid in the body’s tissues leading to swelling. After a breast cancer treatment such as surgery and radiation, lymphedema of the arm can happen to patients. Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) occurs in 1 out of every 5 women who have done breast surgery. BRCL is associated with symptoms such as heaviness, aching, swelling, tightness, and limited range of movements. When BRCL happens, the skin and subcutaneous tissue thicken.

The main treatment for BCRL is compression bandages. Compression below 10mmHg does not seem to be effective in reducing swelling. Additionally, too much pressure can cause lymphatic obstruction (blockage). There is no clear understanding as to how much pressure with compression bandages is essential for BCRL.

The study involved 21 participants with stage 2 one side BCRL. The participants were randomly assigned to either the high-pressure bandage group (45-55mmHg) or the low-pressure group (20-30mmHg). The participants in both groups were given complex decongestive physiotherapy. This involves a combination of manual lymph drainage, compression bandage, skin care, and exercise.

The skin thickness and subcutaneous tissue thickness were reduced significantly in the high-pressure bandage group. In the low-pressure bandage group, the skin thickness was reduced in the hand and arm only and the thickness of subcutaneous tissue was reduced at all points except the hand and arm. Additionally, swelling in the high-pressure bandage group was reduced in a shorter amount of time compared to the other group.

Sleep quality, benefit from treatment, and comfort during the treatment process were not significantly different between the two groups. A few patients experienced redness or itching.

A high-pressure compression bandage was more effective in reducing skin thickness and subcutaneous tissue thickness for patients with BCRL.

The sample size was very small. A larger sample size is needed to validate the findings. Additionally, the study only evaluated patients with stage 2 BCRL.