Screening for Lymphoedema
Screening
Patients who have been treated for cancer are at high risk of developing lymphoedema. If the earliest signs of lymphoedema can be detected, minimally invasive surgery can be used to reverse these changes and prevent lymphoedema from developing.
Screening
This is why at Oxford Lymphoedema Practice, we developed the first lymphoedema screening programme in the UK. Starting three months after cancer treatment has been completed, you are seen by one of our experienced specialist surgeons. They will make a full assessment of you and your lymphatic system, including medical history, examination, and ICG Lymphography scan. This is the best way to detect the earliest signs of lymphoedema, even before you know that you are affected. You will be able to see live on screen the function of your lymphatic system, and any areas where it is not working well.
If your examination and scan are normal, you will benefit from the reassurance that you do not have lymphoedema, and can continue to enjoy life without restriction. We recommend repeat examination and ICG Lymphography scan every six months for three years, as most people who get lymphoedema do so within three years of completing their cancer treatment.
Having an ICG scan soon after your cancer treatment has finished is highly recommended. It provides knowledge of how the lymphatic system works, and what can go wrong to cause lymphoedema. It also provides a definitive diagnosis, ruling out lymphoedema if it is not present (see our patient story below). It can provide reassurance, and allow you to take control of what is happening to your arm or leg, empowering you as a patient.
Download our Screening leaflet here
Testimonials
Surgery address:
Nuffield Health, The Manor Hospital, Beech Road, Oxford, OX3 7RP
Oxford Lymphoedema Practice, PO Box 1138, Oxford, OX1 9UN
© Oxford Lymphoedema Practice Ltd 2018