Effectiveness of lymphatic massage on lymph oedema among patients with breast cancer undergone mastectomy in a tertiary care hospital

Mrs.Jiji P S; Mrs. Smitha P V; Mrs.Jayarani R S

Volume : VII, Issue : XII, December - 2018

Effectiveness of lymphatic massage on lymph oedema among patients with breast cancer undergone mastectomy in a tertiary care hospital

Mrs. Jiji P S, Mrs. Smitha P V, Mrs. Jayarani R S

Abstract :

Breast cancer is the most frequent malignancy in women.[1] The incidence of lymph oedema after east cancer treatment varies from 25% to 38%.[2] The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of lymphatic massage on lymph oedema among patients with east cancer undergone mastectomy at Govt. Medical College Hospital, Kottayam. A quantitative approach was used for the study and the design adopted was pre experimental design. The conceptual framework, Betty Neuman�s system model theoretically supported the study. Thirty five patients with east cancer undergone mastectomy and on treatment in the Department of Radiotherapy were selected by non probability purposive sampling technique. The data were collected using socio personal and clinical data sheet and modified Foldi lymph oedema rating scale. A pre test was conducted among the subjects on the first day before the intervention. The intervention –lymphatic massage– was given as a series of soft rhythmic strokes to the patient both on the inner and outer aspect of affected extremity. The massage technique was reinforced with the help of patient information booklet on lymphatic massage. Findings revealed that lymphatic massage had statistically significant effect on lymph oedema (p < 0.05 ) among patients with east cancer undergone mastectomy. Based on the findings of the present study, it can be concluded that lymphatic massage was effective in reducing lymph oedema at repeated post tests among patients with east cancer undergone mastectomy.