Expert-consensus on lymphedema surgeries: candidacy, prehabilitation, and postoperative care.

Abstract

For over 2 decades, the mainstay of lymphedema treatment has been complete decongestive therapy, however, surgical options are available when conservative treatment is not successful in reducing lymphedema. Standardized pre-surgical and post-surgical guidelines for candidates are not readily available. As part of the 2023 Lymphedema Summit that was sponsored by the American Cancer Society, and the Lymphology Association of North America, an expert consensus workgroup was formed and developed an expert consensus which affirms the importance of pre-surgical guidelines for candidates with lymphedema. The workgroup recommended that guidelines should be tailored to four major end-user groups: (1) patients, (2) referring physicians, (3) allied health professionals, and (4) surgeons.