Zhang J, Zhou C, Ma Q, Zhang Y, Zhang X. Preventing lower limb lymphedema after pelvic lymphadenectomy with progressive resistance exercise training: A randomized controlled trial.
Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs 2024;
11:100333. [PMID:
38188370 PMCID:
PMC10770521 DOI:
10.1016/j.apjon.2023.100333]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective
This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a self-designed progressive resistance exercise training program for preventing the development of lower limb lymphedema.
Methods
An open-label randomized controlled trial was conducted in patients who underwent radical surgery for cervical cancer treatment in our department between October 7, 2019, and October 7, 2021. The participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: progressive resistance exercise training, graduated compression stocking, and control group.
Results
A total of 267 patients were enrolled (89 in each group). The incidence of lower limb lymphedema was 9.0% (n = 8) in the progressive resistance exercise training group, 28.1% (n = 25) in the graduated compression stocking group, and 42.7% (n = 38) in the control group. Over the 2-year follow-up period, the risk of lower limb lymphedema was significantly lower in the progressive resistance exercise training group than in the control group, with a hazard ratio (HR) (95% confidence interval [CI]) of 0.156 (0.073-0.335). The study was underpowered to demonstrate a statistically significant reduction in risk in the graduated compression stocking group, with an HR (95% CI) of 0.624 (0.376-1.033).
Conclusions
Progressive resistance exercise training is an effective strategy for preventing lower limb lymphedema after pelvic lymphadenectomy for cervical cancer. It imposes no additional economic burden and can be performed conveniently without the need for dedicated exercise facilities. This makes it particularly accessible to patients in developing countries, allowing them to exercise at their convenience.
Trial registration
ChiCTR1800014905.
Collapse