The Keys to Successful Treatment & Management of Lymphedema
Lymphedema is a complex condition that affects millions of Americans. It is a disease all too often caused by surgery, sedentary living, cancer therapy, poor vein health, infection, and a host of other reasons. Lymphedema results from damaged lymph nodes or lymph vessels which cause an atypical accrual of protein-rich edema due to impaired transport capacity from the lymphatic system, carrying bacteria, viruses, and other waste products away from the body. This results in chronic, painful soft tissue swelling limiting a patient's ability to walk and perform even the most basic activities of normal daily living. The current supply of lymphedema therapists is estimated to be just 1 to every 100,000 lymphedema patients, creating a vast shortage of those who can provide adequate care for this growing population.

This course provides clinicians with a thorough understanding of the lymphatic system and the complex pathology of lymphedema. Attendees will be able to recognize the clinical presentation of lymphedema and appreciate the importance of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). This seminar will not only help you treat your patients, but will also assist you in teaching them proper life and limb saving self-care techniques.

Course Content

• OVERVIEW OF LYMPHATIC SYSTEM
• Anatomy of lymphatic system
• Physiology of lymphatic system
• Description of lymphoid tissue
• Lymphatic circulation
• Lymph propulsion
• PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF LYMPHEDEMA
• Stages of lymphedema
• Primary lymphedema

• Congenital malformations

• Secondary lymphedema
  • Post breast cancer
  • Trauma
  • Venous complications
• DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING
• Lymphoscintigraphy
• Xeroradiography
• CT scans
• COMPLETE DECONGESTIVE THERAPY
• Manual lymphatic drainage techniques
• Multi-layer bandaging techniques
• Patient education
• Patient exercises
• DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSES
• Lipedema
• Chronic venous insufficiency
• Venous-lymphostatic insufficiency
• Generalized edemas
• Edema during pregnancy
• Acute Inflammation
• INTERMITTENT PNEUMATIC COMPRESSION THERAPY
• LYMPHEDEMA CASE STUDIES