Multi-segment bioimpedance in the evaluation of treatment for secondary lower limb lymphedema: Gynecological cancer

Abstract

<b>Aim</b>: The present aimed study was to report the mobilization of body fluids after five days of intensive treatment for secondary lower limb lymphedema.<br /> <b>Materials and methods</b>: A crossover clinical trial was conducted involving the analysis of changes in intracellular and extracellular fluids in all extremities and the trunk in women with lower limb lymphedema secondary to treatment for gynecological cancer. Evaluations were performed with multi-segment bio impedance analysis before and after intensive treatment using Godoy Method® eight hours per day for five days. Comparisons were made using Wilcoxon signed-ranks test.<br /> <b>Results</b>: Significant changes in intracellular and extracellular fluids were found in all extremities and the trunk (p&lt;0.0001 for all comparisons).<br /> <b>Conclusion</b>: Intensive Godoy Method® leads to important changes in the distribution of body fluids in the treatment of lower limb lymphedema following treatment for gynecological cancer, with a significant increase in fluids in the upper limbs and trunk as well as significant reductions in the lower limb and in intracellular and extracellular water.