NCT07014657

Effect of Digital Combined Decongestive Therapy in Patients With Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema: a Follow-up Study

• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 29 (actual)
• Sponsor: Bezmialem Vakif University · Academic / Other
• Sex: Female
• Age: —
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This study investigated the short- and long-term effects of digital combined decongestive therapy in breast cancer-related lymphedema. Limb volume and quality of life (Lymph-ICF) were assessed at baseline, post-treatment, and 12-week follow-up.

Detailed description

This study evaluated the feasibility and effectiveness of a digital combined decongestive therapy (CDT) program in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema. After an initial face-to-face training session on self-bandaging, self-manual lymphatic drainage, breathing exercises, and skin care, patients followed a 4-week digital CDT program with remote guidance. Compression garments were used during the maintenance phase. Limb volume was measured using circumference method. Quality of life was assessed with the Lymph-ICF questionnaire. Assessments were repeated post-treatment and at 12-week follow-up.

Conditions

• Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
BEHAVIORAL	Digital Combined Decongestive Therapy	Participants received digital combined decongestive therapy, which included an initial face-to-face session where skin care and risk reduction training were provided. Self-bandaging and self-manual lymphatic drainage techniques were demonstrated and practiced under supervision. Additionally, decongestive and breathing exercises were taught to both patients and caregivers. Following this, the intensive treatment phase was conducted remotely using electronic communication technologies over a period of 4 weeks to monitor and guide the therapy. After the intensive phase, participants continued with maintenance therapy, which involved the use of compression stockings. The therapy aimed to reduce limb volume and improve symptoms related to breast cancer-related lymphedema.

Timeline

• Start date: 2018-01-10
• Primary completion: 2024-01-05
• Completion: 2024-06-20
• First posted: 2025-06-11
• Last updated: 2025-06-11

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Turkey (Türkiye)