Lymphoedema

Lymphoedema is a long-term (chronic) condition which occurs as a result of changes in the development of the lymphatic system (Primary) or as a result of a secondary cause which reduces the function of the lymphatic system (secondary).

It can affect any part of the body and can occur as a result of primary or secondary reasons.

The UHDB Lymphoedema Teams treat patients, including children, with lymphoedema; and other chronic oedemas.

The UHDB Service is one of 11 worldwide Centres of Excellence awarded by The Lymphoedema Education and Research Network (LERN) (opens in new window) >.

The service is also a national centre for paediatric and primary lymphoedema, lipoedema and vascular malformations. It is recognised by NHS England as one of two centres in the UK (the other being St Georges Hospital in London) for paediatric and primary lymphoedema, which are part of the European Reference Network for vascular rare diseases (VascERN).

Treatment

Early intervention is a key factor in the management of lymphoedema. Appropriate treatment and guidance from specialist trained professionals, can help to control, prevent, and reduce progression and complications. We work with our patients to help them to self-manage their condition.

The main components of lymphoedema management used to reduce and control swelling are:

• Compression: bandaging, compression garments and use of intermittent pneumatic compression devices
• Skin care
• Exercise
• Patient advice / support / education
• Lymphatic drainage: Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), Simple Lymphatic Drainage (SLD)