Lymphedema secondary to postmastectomy radiation: incidence and risk factors.

Background: Postmastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) has proven benefits for certain patients with breast cancer; however, one of its complications is lymphedema. This study examines the incidence of and risk factors associated with lymphedema secondary to PMRT.

Methods: The charts of patients treated with mastectomy at Roswell Park Cancer Institute between January 1, 1995, and April 20, 2001, who received PMRT were reviewed.

The effectiveness of complete decongestive physiotherapy for the treatment of lymphedema following groin dissection for melanoma.

Objective: Groin dissection is performed for the treatment of melanoma and other malignancies. Lymphedema rates as high as 47% have been reported. In 1996, we began using complete decongestive physiotherapy (CDP) in selected patients with lymphedema following groin dissection.