Feasibility and Effects of Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) Breast Massage in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Adjuvant Radiation Therapy
University of Southern California
Summary
This phase II trial evaluates manual lymphatic drainage breast massage for reducing treatment-related side effects in women undergoing radiation therapy after breast conserving surgery for breast cancer that has not spread to other parts of the body (localized). Breast conserving surgery can be an effective treatment option for early stage breast cancer, but it can also be associated with side effects including fluid collection in tissues/swelling (lymphedema), pain, reduced quality of life, and poorer body image. Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle massage technique used to reduce swelling. It may be a safe and effective way to reduce treatment-related side effects in women receiving radiation therapy after surgery for localized breast cancer.
Description
PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: I. Evaluate the feasibility of breast manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) on breast cancer patients receiving adjuvant breast radiation therapy after breast conserving surgery. SECONDARY OBJECTIVES: I. Evaluate the tolerability of breast manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) on breast cancer patients receiving adjuvant breast radiation therapy after breast conserving surgery. II. Preliminarily assess the effect on acute and chronic breast edema, pain, functional status, quality of life, body image and radiation induced fibrosis (RIF). OUTLINE: Patients undergo MLD breast massage…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- Female
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Female with native breasts and localized breast cancer who are status post-lumpectomy surgery, will receive whole breast radiation therapy with/without nodal irradiation, with standard fractionation or moderate hypofractionation * Age \>= 18 years * Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent in English or Spanish Exclusion Criteria: * Underlying diagnosis of chronic inflammatory illness or collagen vascular disorder, e.g. scleroderma, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia as these conditions may significantly affect the likelihood…
Interventions
- OtherLymphedema Management
Undergo MLD breast massage
- OtherQuestionnaire Administration
Ancillary studies
- RadiationAdjuvant breast radiation therapy
Using standard 3D conformal or intensity modulated techniques, patients will receive standard fractionation or moderate hypofractionation radiation therapy. The radiation treatment will last for 3 to 6 weeks, with the length of treatment depending on patient's specific clinical situation.
Location
- USC / Norris Comprehensive Cancer CenterLos Angeles, California