Endermologie versus Low Level Laser Therapy on Post Mastectomy Lymphedema

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is a major side effect and a complication of breast cancer surgery and radiotherapy, causing chronic lymphedema in the arm. Aim of Study:This study was conducted to compare between efficacy of Endermologie and Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) in treatment of post mastectomy lymphedema.Subjects and Methods: Thirty women diagnosed clinically by oncologist/physician as unilateral breast cancer with secondary upper limb lymphedema post mastectomy, they were selected from Damanhour Oncology Centre suffering from grade II lymphedema without skin changes one year post mastectomy based on tape and volumetric assessment. Their age ranged from 40 to 60 years. They were assigned randomly into two groups (A) and (B) equal in number. Group (A) received 30min Endermologie 3 times per week in addition to routine physical therapy program (manual lymphatic drainage, compression bandage, active range of motion and elevation), hygiene and skin carefor 6 weeks. While, Group (B) received 20min LLLT 3 times per week in addition to routine physical therapy program (manual lymphatic drainage, compression bandage, active range of motion and elevation), hygiene and skin care for 6 weeks. Upper limb lymphedema was evaluated by tape and volumetric assessment before and after the intervention.Results: There was no significant difference in upper limb volume and circumference between both groups pre-treatment (p>0.05). Comparison between the group (A) and (B) posttreatment revealed a significant decrease in upper limb volume and circumference of the group (A) compared with that of the group (B) (p>0.05). Conclusion:These results suggested that Endermologie was more effective than LLLT in reducing limb circumference and volume in post mastectomy lymphedema.