Using Laser Therapy To Treat Post-Mastectomy Lymphedema

After a mastectomy, it is common to develop upper limb lymphedema. According to one study, the rate of lymphedema is as much as 5% immediately following surgery and 30% after radiotherapy.

“Lymphedema happens when lymph nodes are removed. The lymphatic system itself is responsible for the removal of waste your body produces; it also provides immune response in the form of white blood cells and recycles proteins back to the heart. When too much of that protein builds up in the spaces between the cells, the interstitial tissues, lymphedema occurs. When the body cannot match the removal of fluid with the amount being produced, it results in swelling. Long-term swelling can result in tissue changes.” — James B. Saviers II, MS, OTR/LCLT-LANA

Most cases of lymphedema develop within five years of breast cancer surgery but many women experience lymphedema symptoms immediately after surgery. At that time, many individuals deal with it by using compression or massage. Others will try dietary changes. While these things can result in short-term relief, they are not a long-term solution.

If you have developed lymphedema, you should know that the condition can worsen over time, hardening and causing discomfort in the form of limb weakness and heaviness. If you have attempted to seek help and haven’t found a solution for your condition, the good news is that there is a treatment that has been shown to help—and it has been registered by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 2006.

Low-level laser therapy, LLLT, has been used for the treatment of fibrous scar tissue and can positively impact fibroblasts, which can break down surgical scars and brawny edema. This treatment has also been shown to encourage improved lymphatic function and the development of additional lymphatic vessels, which are needed to reduce edema in the long term.

Another benefit of this treatment is that it can affect macrophage cells, the body’s first line of defense against pathogens. Put more simply, it can help stimulate the immune system.

You may be asking why you haven’t heard about this treatment before now, and the simple answer is that it isn’t a mainstream treatment. However, with the development of new lasers, better medical science, and deeper research, LLLT has become a possible solution for lymphedema.

To learn more about LLLT therapy and if it might be right for you, speak with your surgeon or lymphedema therapist.

You can also read more about medical laser products for lymphedema through RianCorp, and see how your therapist can trial the laser device at no cost for 30 days.

Low-Intensity Laser Light Therapy FAQs

What Is Low-Intentsity Laser Light Therapy for Lymphedema?

Cold laser LLLT is an option for patients living with lymphedema. The procedure uses a laser called the LTU-904 to soften the fibrous tissues in the affected area of the body. Doing this, the built-up fluid can be released.

What Is the LLLT Cold Laser Therapy Procedure?

LLLT therapy involves using the cold laser to stimulate lymphatic drainage and promote the creation of new lymphatic vessels. By doing this, the body is able to improve lymph flow and reduce the amount of fluid or swelling in the tissues.

Your procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional using an approved laser device (The LTU-904 is the only device registered by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for lymphedema). Typically, there will be multiple sessions to treat the affected area, or you can rent or purchase a device to use in your own home. This is not an invasive procedure.

Post is sponsored by RianCorp