SurLym trial: study protocol for a multicentre pragmatic randomised controlled trial on the added value of reconstructive lymphatic surgery to decongestive lymphatic therapy for the treatment of lymphoedema.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition caused by lymphatic insufficiency. It leads to swelling of the limb/midline region and an increased risk of infection. Lymphoedema is often associated with mental and physical problems limiting quality of life. The first choice of treatment is a conservative treatment, consisting of exercises, skin care, lymph drainage and compression. Reconstructive lymphatic surgery is also often performed, that is, lymphovenous anastomoses, lymph node transfer or a combination. However, robust evidence on the effectiveness of reconstructive lymphatic surgery is missing. Therefore, the objective of this trial is to investigate the added value of reconstructive lymphatic surgery to the conservative treatment in patients with lymphoedema.

Methods a

SUBMITTER: Devoogdt N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11145716 | biostudies-literature | 2024 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature