Intensive Treatment of Lower-Limb Lymphedema and Variations in Volume Before and After: A Follow-Up

Background and objective Lymphedema is a clinical condition resulting from a failure in the drainage of the lymphatic system and the consequent formation of edema. The aim of the present study was to report the results of five days of intensive treatment for lymphedema and the maintenance of such results at the first follow-up evaluation. Method A clinical trial was conducted involving 409 patients with primary or secondary unilateral, lower-limb lymphedema who underwent intensive treatment with the Godoy method. The treatment consisted of eight hours per day of mechanical lymphatic drainage, 15 minutes per day of cervical stimulation, and compression mechanics involving the use of laced grosgrain (non-elastic) stockings alternated with bandages. Volumetric evaluations were performed at baseline, after five days of intensive treatment, and at the first follow-up evaluation performed one to three months after intensive treatment. Results The mean volume was 2,083.43 ml at baseline and 937.55 ml after five days of intensive treatment, corresponding to a 55% reduction. The mean was 800.83 ml at the follow-up evaluation, corresponding to a reduction of 137 ml [17.12 non-significant difference (p = 0.1)]. Conclusion The intensive treatment of lymphedema leads to considerable reductions in edema within a short period of time, facilitating the continuity of treatment and demonstrating the credibility of the method.