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Updated: Jan 8, 2026

Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema
Published on: January 12, 2017
Compression sleeves for prevention and treatment of breast cancer-related lymphedema: a systematic review and
Haifeng Cheng1, Jianmei Gong2, Lin Yu1
1School of Nursing, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 79 Chongshan East Road, Huanggu District, Shenyang, 110847, Liaoning, China.
Background:
Compression sleeves are widely used for breast cancer-related lymphedema, but evidence on their effectiveness of prevention and treatment in volume reduction is limited.
Objective:
To compare the effects of compression sleeves and conventional care on breast cancer-related lymphedema, providing evidence-based support for clinical application.
Methods:
A systematic search of 9 databases was conducted up to June 9, 2025. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4, and evidence quality was assessed with GRADE profiler 3.6.
Results:
1532 patients were included. Compression sleeves significantly reduced lymphedema incidence post-surgery (P =0 .02) and edema volume/circumference (P <0 .001), and improved shoulder flexion (P =0.02). No significant effects were seen on shoulder abduction (P =0 .18), subjective symptoms (P =0.62), or quality of life (P = 0.32). Evidence quality was moderate for incidence and volume/circumference reduction, and low for other outcomes.
Conclusion:
This meta-analysis shows that compression sleeves reduce lymphedema incidence and volume/circumference, and improve shoulder flexion. They should be considered in lymphedema management, though further research is needed for other outcomes.
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