Providers · Oncology
Lymphedema after cancer treatment: refer for compression
Cancer treatment accounts for about 68% of lymphedema cases, and 2 in 5 breast cancer patients develop lymphedema within 5 years of surgery. For breast, gynecologic, urologic, melanoma, sarcoma and head and neck surgeons, medical and radiation oncology, and survivorship programs.
Patients we help
Who we see
- Arm, hand and chest swelling after mastectomy, lumpectomy or axillary node removal
- Leg and genital swelling after gynecologic, urologic or melanoma surgery and pelvic radiation
- Swelling after sarcoma surgery and limb-sparing procedures
- Head and neck lymphedema after surgery or radiation
- Reported rates after treatment: breast up to 40%, sarcoma 30%, gynecologic 20%, melanoma 16%, genitourinary 10%, head and neck 4%
What we provide
- Arm sleeves, gauntlets and gloves, ready-to-wear and custom
- Stockings, wraps and custom flat knit for legs
- Chest, trunk, head and neck garments
- Night garments to hold reduction
- Pneumatic compression pumps (E0651 / E0652) and pump garments
- Printed sleeves — patients wear what they like
Early referral matters. Swelling that lasts 3 months or more should be evaluated for lymphedema. We work alongside your lymphedema therapist — or help your patient find one.
Related pages
What we handle for your office
- Benefits check and prior authorization, and we tell your office right away if anything is missing
- Fitting by certified compression fitters, with in-stock garments, wraps and custom flat knit
- Pumps (E0651 / E0652) delivered and set up, with follow-up
- Updates to your office through Parachute Health or by fax
- A cash-pay option for patients without coverage, through our online shop
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Sources: Lymphedema Advocacy Group and Lymphedema Education & Awareness Project fact sheets (LymphedemaAdvocacyGroup.org, LymphedemaProject.org), citing J Clin Oncol 2009;27(3):390-7; Cancer 2010;116:5138-49; J Am Coll Cardiol 2008;52(10):799-806; Vasc Med 1998;3:145-156; Clin Genet 2010;77:438-452. This page is referral information for clinicians, not medical advice.