Effectiveness of Biker Shorts-Style Compression Garments for the Treatment of Secondary Lower Limb Lymphedema.

Abstract

Background: Gradient compression garments are a standard treatment for lower limb lymphedema. However, few reports exist on the indications, effectiveness, and limitations of a biker shorts-style compression garment providing only proximal local compression of the thigh and lower abdomen for lymphedema treatment. This pilot study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of using biker shorts-style compression garments for lower limb lymphedema treatment. Methods and Results: We retrospectively analyzed 40 limbs that received treatment using biker shorts-style compression garments. The primary endpoint was the volume change in the thigh (compression region) and the lower leg (non-compression region) after 6 months of using biker shorts-style compression garments. The control was the volume change in the same patients during an equivalent time period when gradient compression garments were worn. Changes in lymphedema-related symptoms and patients' subjective comments were secondary endpoints. Of the 40 limbs analyzed, 33 limbs were early-stage cases classified as stage 1 or lower by the International Society of Lymphology. Twenty-one limbs had pain and heaviness associated with lymphedema in the thigh or groin. After 6 months of using biker shorts-style compression garments, there was a significant reduction in thigh volume compared to that after using gradient compression garments during the same period. Lymph-related pain improved in all limbs. Significantly poorer thigh volume improvement was observed in patients with a missing posterolateral pathway on lymphangiography and a history of radiation therapy. Conclusion: Compared to gradient compression garments, biker shorts-style compression garments may improve thigh volume and symptoms in lower limb secondary lymphedema.