340 likes | 1.27k Views
Lymphedema Definition . Abnormal accumulation of fluid in the tissues of the head and neck due to damage to the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is compromised and unable to maintain the fluid balance in the tissues resulting in excess edema or swelling.. Lymphedema and Oncology . Sur
E N D
1. Head and Neck LYMPHEDEMA
2. Lymphedema Definition
Abnormal accumulation of fluid in the tissues of the head and neck due to damage to the lymphatic system.
The lymphatic system is compromised and unable to maintain the fluid balance in the tissues resulting in excess edema or swelling.
3. Lymphedema and Oncology
Surgery – damages and removes lymphatic nodes and vessels, scarring and adhesions
(Neck dissection = removal of lymph nodes)
Radiation – destroys lymph nodes, scarring and fibrosis of lymph structures and tissue
Infection – scarring and fibrosis of lymph vessels, immune system compromise
5. SYMPTOMS
Swelling may result in protein accumulation
causing progressive tissue changes.
Lymphatic system does not grow new nodes
Lymph fluid slowly accumulates
Soft and thick tissues, may become hard, dense, and fibrotic.
6. SYMPTOMS
Swelling in face, head, and neck(characteristic waddle and jowls)
Neck stiffness and poor mobility due to scarring
Limited arm and shoulder function
Poor posture
Difficulty with swallowing, talking, headaches, vision, sleeping position, pain
7.
8. GOALS Reduction of swelling to restore function and improve cosmetic appearance
Increase lymph flow utilizing remaining vessels and other lymphatic pathways
Prevent re-accumulation of lymph fluid
Eliminate fibrotic tissue
Prevent & eliminate infections
9. MLD-Manual Lymph Drainage
Compression- bandaging, head band, facemask
Exercise, posture, positioning, breathing
Self-care techniques
Lifestyle modifications for long term success
Complete Decongestive Therapy
10. EXERCISE Increase in lymph flow & a dilation of lymph vessels
Improves lymph circulation & lymph vessel activity
Abdominal breathing exercises create suction effect
11. EXERCISE
Stretching exercises promote drainage by alleviating restrictions
Strengthening exercises uses muscle contraction to pump fluid
Cardiovascular exercises increases lymph flow (negative pressure gradient)
Posture and Positioning minimizes pooling effects of gravity and promotes drainage
12. COMPRESSION Compression worn as much as possible and especially during the night
Head and neck piece made of compressive fabric to apply light compression to tissue
Transitional compression bandages, head pieces worn initially
Final garment after limb volume reduction
13. COMPRESSION GARMENTS
14.