Exploring patient perception of success and benefit in self-management of breast cancer-related arm lymphoedema.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to identify factors influencing patient perception of success and benefit with self-management of breast cancer-related lymphoedema (BCRL) and explore how patients decide whether their swollen limb has improved or deteriorated.

Methods: This qualitative study used a Grounded Theory approach. Twenty-one women in the BCRL self-management phase participated in one in-depth interview exploring their experience and perspective on self-managing their BCRL.

Treatment and outcomes of head and neck oedema referrals to a hospital-based lymphoedema service.

A retrospective review of all head and neck cancer-related lymphoedema (HNCRL) referrals from 1 October 2009 to 30 September 2013 was undertaken. HNCRL referrals significantly increased over a 4-year period. Lymphoedema clinic records were manually examined for the presentation of HNCRL, treatments provided, and outcomes.