Efficacy of gradient compression sleeves in preventing postoperative upper extremity lymphoedema after breast cancer surgery.

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is a serious complication after breast cancer surgery. This study evaluated the efficacy of gradient compression sleeves in preventing BCRL. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: = 52) or conventional care plus gradient compression sleeves (20-30 mmHg) for 12 months. The primary outcome was arm circumference change at 10 standardized sites measured at 90, 180, and 360 days post-surgery for evaluating efficacy. Secondary outcomes included Breast Cancer Lymphedema Symptom Experience Index (BCLE-SEI) for symptom severity and life impact for evaluating safety. Blinding of participants was not feasible due to the nature of the intervention. No serious adverse events occurred; 8 mild transient skin irritations were reported. CONCLUSIONS: Prophylactic gradient compression sleeves may reduce BCRL progression and improve quality of life. Limitations include single-center design and lack of blinding. REGISTRATION: ISRCTN registry(ISRCTN44170920).