Manual Lymphatic Drainage Breast Massage in Breast Cancer Patients After Breast Conserving Surgery

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · Mar 5, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a gentle massage technique called manual lymphatic drainage, which may help reduce side effects in women receiving radiation therapy after breast conserving surgery for localized breast cancer. Side effects of treatment can include swelling, pain, and a decrease in quality of life. The goal of this trial is to see if this type of massage can make these side effects less severe, helping women feel better during their recovery.

To be eligible for this trial, participants must be women aged 18 or older who have had lumpectomy surgery and are scheduled to receive radiation therapy. They should have localized breast cancer and must be able to understand and sign consent forms in English or Spanish. However, women with certain health conditions or those who are pregnant or nursing cannot participate. Those who join the trial can expect to receive the massage as part of their treatment and will be monitored for any changes in their side effects. This trial is currently recruiting participants, so if you or someone you know meets these criteria and is interested, it could be a valuable opportunity to explore.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Female with native breasts and localized breast cancer who are status post-lumpectomy surgery, will receive whole breast radiation therapy with/without nodal irradiation, with standard fractionation or moderate hypofractionation
• • Age \>= 18 years
• • Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent in English or Spanish
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Underlying diagnosis of chronic inflammatory illness or collagen vascular disorder, e.g. scleroderma, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia as these conditions may significantly affect the likelihood and magnitude of radiation related toxicity
• • Uncontrolled intercurrent illness including, but not limited to, ongoing or active infection, symptomatic congestive heart failure, unstable angina pectoris, unstable cardiac arrhythmia, or psychiatric illness/social situations that would limit compliance with study requirements
• • Inability to provide written informed consent in English or Spanish
• • Patients receiving ultra-hypofractionation, and/or partial breast or chest wall radiation therapy are excluded