Two Different Physiotherapy Programs in Lymphedema Following Head and Neck Cancer Treatment

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of complex decongestive physiotherapy (CDP) and home programs on internal/external lymphedema, staging, fibrosis, and three-dimensional (3D) surface scanning and volume evaluation in head and neck lymphedema. Twenty-one patients were randomly divided into three groups: CDP; home program including self manual lymph drainage (MLD) and exercises; and control. CDP included MLD drainage, compression, exercise, and skin care. Self-MLD and exercises were performed by home program group patients. Assessment methods were applied at baseline and 4 weeks later for all groups. MD. Anderson Cancer Center Head and Neck Lymphedema Protocol was implemented to evaluate head and neck external lymphedema, staging, and fibrosis. An Artec Eva 3D scanner and the Autodesk ReCap Photo Studio software were used to determine and calculate the volume of the head and neck region via 3D surface scanning. Head and neck external lymphedema and fibrosis assessment criteria were performed to evaluate visible soft tissue edema and the degree of stiffness. To assess internal lymphedema, Patterson's scale was applied using fiber-optic endoscopic imaging.

Sex

All

Minimum age

22 Years

Maximum age

73 Years

Inclusion Criteria:

* \>18 years old
* had unilateral/bilateral neck dissection
* had received radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy
* elapsed time of 3 or more months since cancer treatments
* had secondary HNL

Exclusion Criteria:

* having metastases due to HNC or other primary cancers
* receiving/having received treatment to regulate the lymph flow
* having the diagnosis of neurological, orthopedic, or rheumatologic diseases that may cause circulation and movement in the head and neck region.

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