Lymphoedema Clinic

What is lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema is the swelling of a limb due to failure of the lymphatic system. This swelling is sometimes caused by cancer or the treatment of cancer.   The most common areas of the body which are affected are in an arm or a leg. 

Why does lymphoedema occur?

There are two main jobs of the lymphatic system.  One is to maintain the flow of fluid around the body by transporting proteins and waste products from the tissues.  The other is being a central part of the immune system.  When there is failure of the lymphatic system excess fluid builds up which causes the swelling.   There are two types of lymphoedema.  Primary lymphoedema is usually determined from birth and is often hereditary. Secondary lymphoedema is usually caused by damage to or the removal of the lymph nodes due to the treatment of cancer or cancer itself.  Sometimes secondary lymphoedema is caused by an accident or severe infection that has nothing to do with cancer.

Is there a cure for lymphoedema?

Unfortunately, most of the underlying causes of lymphoedema are irreversible and as such, there is currently no known cure. However, appropriate treatment can be implemented to reduce the swelling and keep it to a minimum. This medical treatment can, in most cases, improve quality of life dramatically.

How is lymphoedema treated?

The management of lymphoedema involves the removal of as much excess fluid and proteins as possible and then preventing them building up again within the tissues.  This can be achieved by compression garments, specialised massage techniques, bandaging, exercising and addressing any other factors, which are contributing to the condition.  The treatment options chosen will depend on the degree and nature of the swelling and what treatment is acceptable to the patient.

What treatment does Lewis-Manning Hospice provide for lymphoedema?

The lymphoedema clinic at Lewis-Manning Hospice provides free treatment and support for patients with secondary lymphoedema due to cancer and / or its treatment.

Referrals to the clinic are accepted from healthcare professionals, general practitioners, consultants and specialist doctors and nurses working with people who have cancer.  The clinic runs from 9.00am – 5.00pm, Monday to Friday.  Assessment and treatment is carried out by nurses trained and experienced in the management of lymphoedema.

A physiotherapist is available for consultation.

If you would like more information about the lymphodema clinic or the condition itself please contact the clinic on 01202 708470.

How often are patients seen?

The initial appointment will last from one hour and patients are usually asked to return to be taught the simple lymph drainage.  Follow-up appointments are usually at one month, three months and then six months depending on individual needs. 

When patients are confident in their ability to control their lymphoedema they may be discharged form the clinic.  The staff are always happy to help should further support be needed in the future.

Support from the clinic

Patients are encouraged to contact staff at any time if problems occur.  Close links are maintained with the British Lymphology Society and the Lymphoedema Support Network.

The clinic’s Honorary Consultant is Mr A. I. Skene, Consultant Breast Surgeon, Royal Bournemouth Hospital.

Costs

Although the clinic makes no charges for any of its services, it is only partly funded by the NHS via the Primary Care Trust. 

Make a donation to help fund the lymphoedema clinic

How to refer to the lymphoedema clinic

You may download the Lymphoedema Referral Form or visit the Health Professionals section of the website for more information.