Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema

J Vis Exp. 2017 Jan 12:(119):54996. doi: 10.3791/54996.

Abstract

Lymphedema is one of the most common complications after breast cancer surgery. There are many diagnostic tools for lymphedema, but no standard method yet exists. Progressive Resistance Exercise (PRE) is expected to improve lymphedema without additional swelling. This study showed the therapeutic effects of PRE on lymphedema by using ultrasonography to measure the change in thickness of the muscle and subcutaneous tissue. The thickness of subcutaneous tissue decreased more in the PRE group than in the non-PRE group. Ultrasonography is widely used in many clinics because of its easy accessibility, safety, and inexpensiveness. Ultrasound is one of the best tools for diagnosing and determining treatment efficacy on breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL).

Publication types

  • Video-Audio Media

MeSH terms

  • Breast / diagnostic imaging
  • Breast Cancer Lymphedema / diagnostic imaging*
  • Breast Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Breast Neoplasms / surgery
  • Exercise Therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mastectomy
  • Resistance Training*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Ultrasonography