Self-management in secondary lymphoedema: clinical evaluation of a single-bandage multicomponent compression system.

Abstract

Background: Secondary limb lymphoedema significantly impairs patients' quality of life. Effective decongestive treatment requires strong compression therapy, but limited access to specialist care and the poor acceptability of conventional systems may reduce adherence.

Aims: This clinical evaluation aimed to assess the acceptability, efficacy and safety of an innovative multicomponent compression system in a single bandage that can be applied by patients or their relatives.

Methods: A total of 10 adults, with stage II secondary lymphoedema affecting a single lower limb, received training in bandage self-application and their progress was followed for 4-5 weeks. Main outcomes included lymphoedema volume reduction, change in quality of life (EuroQol-5D-3L), patients' acceptability and safety.

Findings: The bandage was reapplied daily by patients or their relatives, most often their spouse, and worn ~22 hours per day. Rapid and pronounced reduction in lymphoedema volume was measured, comparable to those achieved in specialised hospital settings, together with substantial improvements in patients' quality of life, including mobility, daily activities and pain or discomfort. The bandage was well accepted, easy to apply, and compatible with normal footwear. No adverse event was reported.

Conclusions: The new bandage provided effective decongestion of stage II lymphoedema and enabled self-application by patients or relatives, thereby supporting patient autonomy, potentially improving adherence, and reducing reliance on specialist services and associated healthcare costs. Additional studies should be considered to further evaluate this multicomponent compression bandage in a larger cohort of patients.

Implications for practice: These results support its use in lymphoedema management, as a promising alternative to conventional systems used in routine practice, particularly for patients who wish to take an active role in managing their condition.