Houston Hospital Utilizes New Tool in Lymphedema Detection

BAYTOWN — (June 2, 2016) — Breast cancer patients undergoing treatment at Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital now have a valuable tool at their disposal in the battle against the potentially debilitating condition known as lymphedema. The Houston Methodist San Jacinto Cancer Center is the first Houston Methodist institution to offer the Lymphedema Index (L-Dex) measurement system to help prevent lymphedema through early detection of changes in fluid content in the limbs of those susceptible to the condition. The L-Dex® device, manufactured by ImpediMed, is the first U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-cleared device to aid in the assessment of unilateral lymphedema of the limb (swelling in only one limb).

Lymphedema is the most common complication that occurs in many breast cancer patients, particularly when the lymph nodes are removed in the underarm area. The condition may cause significant swelling of the arm or leg due to lymph fluid build up, which can occur when the lymphatic system—responsible for draining excess fluid—is damaged as a result of removal and cancer treatment. The non-invasive and painless L-Dex measurements are taken prior to the start of cancer treatments to establish a baseline reading, with follow up comparison readings scheduled every three months.

“We are piloting this program in breast cancer patients who will have surgery to remove the cancer, which means they will have breasts/lymph nodes removed,” said Jessica Graham, director of the Cancer Center at Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital. “In order to prevent lymphedema with ongoing monitoring using the L-Dex machine, a baseline measurement must be taken.”

Because there is no cure for lymphedema, early detection and prevention of changes in fluid content is critical, allowing treatment to begin prior to full development of the condition.

“Our goal in implementing this program is to provide interim opportunities for education refreshers on risk reduction and offer routine monitoring so that patients have a sense of control over their outcomes,” said Alice Freed, oncology nurse navigator with Houston Methodist San Jacinto.

The handheld L-Dex device takes measurements by passing a harmless electrical signal of very low strength through the affected area. The electrical signal travels through the fluid surrounding the cells that make up the muscle and tissues of the limb. The amount of this fluid increases as lymphedema develops, and increased fluid means the electrical signal travels more easily through the limb.

Freed said lymphedema can occur at any time following cancer treatment, but most frequently occurs within two years of the beginning of treatment, making getting regular L-Dex assessments vital in detecting the condition in its earliest stages.