Lymphedema Management Services
Lymphedema Management Services at Mercy Medical Center assists women who have undergone treatment for breast cancer, as well as any patient with lymphedema resulting from other causes.
Lymphedema is swelling resulting from the accumulation of lymphatic fluid. It can affect the arms, hands, legs, feet and trunk, and less commonly the face and genitalia. In women who have undergone mastectomy or lumpectomy, lymphedema may occur in the arm of the affected side. Lymphedema can also result from lower abdominal surgery such as hysterectomy, cyst removal, and prostatectomy.
Lymphedema Management Services is staffed by an occupational therapist and a physical therapist trained in the Vodder technique of manual lymphatic drainage. They received their training at Lerner Lymphedema Services Academy in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This academy offers the only such program in the U.S. that is physician-taught. Lead instructor Robert Lerner, M.D., pioneered the use of complete decongestive therapy (CDT) for lymphedema.
Lymphedema Management Services provides complete decongestive therapy (CDT) which involves:
- Manual lymph drainage
- Compression bandaging
- Remedial exercise
- Meticulous skin and nail care
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare covers CDT, and a physician's referral is required. Patients can be seen at either location, the Mercy Health Plaza or Mercy Women's Center.
For more information about lymphedema, Lymphedema Management Services, or to make an appointment, call Mercy Rehabilitation Services at 319-398-6020.
