A 2D Computational Model of Lymphedema and of its Management with Compression Device

The purpose of this study is to model a lymphedema following a mastectomy and its management (compression therapy). During surgery for breast cancer, an axillary node dissection can be done and cause damages to the lymphatic system leading to a secondary lymphedema located in upper limb. Limb lymphe...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Mathematical modelling of natural phenomena 2017-01, Vol.12 (5), p.180-195
Main Authors: Eymard, N., Volpert, V., Quere, I., Lajoinie, A., Nony, P., Cornu, C.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
35Q30
35Q35
35Q68
Biopsy
Breast cancer
Complications
Compression
Compression tests
Compression therapy
compressive device
Computer applications
Edema
Garments
Lymphatic system
Lymphedema
mathematical modeling
Pain
Patients
Surgery
Two dimensional models
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Summary:The purpose of this study is to model a lymphedema following a mastectomy and its management (compression therapy). During surgery for breast cancer, an axillary node dissection can be done and cause damages to the lymphatic system leading to a secondary lymphedema located in upper limb. Limb lymphedema is an incurable disease associated with chronic and progressive limb swelling condition. The main clinical consequence of lymphedema is the limb edema, clinically resulting in pain, discomfort, strength reduction and musculoskeletal complications due to limb excessive heaviness. Some devices for lymphedema (e.g. bandaging and garments) could be more personalized, taking into account both characteristics of compressions and patients. Before the evaluation of these therapeutic strategies in humans, an ``in silico'' approach could be used to investigate the interest of gradual or intermittent compression testing in virtual patients. For that purpose, we developed a simplified model of the lymph flow through the lymphatic system in a whole upper limb including the corresponding interstitial fluid exchanges.
ISSN:1760-6101
0973-5348
1760-6101
DOI:10.1051/mmnp/201712511