The impact of a self-care skills strengthening rehabilitation program on post-surgical lymphedema: A randomized controlled tele-health intervention

Abstract

Purpose

Affecting millions of people worldwide, breast cancer-related lymphedema continues to be a significant problem in the postoperative period. This study aimed to examine the impact of a novel self-care skills-strengthening rehabilitation program on post-surgical lymphedema in women with breast cancer.

Methods

The study included 40 female patients who underwent breast cancer surgery, divided into 20 participants in the intervention group and 20 in the control group. Data were collected using the "Symptom Warning Model for Lymphedema," "Upper Extremity Circumference Measurement Monitoring Form," "Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema Self-Care Scale," "Progressive Upper Limb Exercises and Muscle Relaxation Training," and the "Self-Management Guide for Lymphedema." The intervention group received a three-month rehabilitation program with telephone follow-ups. The study followed the CONSORT checklist.

Results

No cases of lymphedema were observed in the intervention group, while two cases occurred in the control group. The intervention group showed a statistically significant higher mean score on the Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema Self-Care Scale than the control group. The rehabilitation program accounted for 81% of the improvement in self-care capability for breast cancer-related lymphedema following surgery.

Conclusion

This study indicates that a rehabilitation program for women who have undergone breast cancer surgery has a positive impact on lymphedema care, offering a beacon of hope for improved patient outcomes.