Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Physical Therapy for Surgery

Objective: The aim of this work was to systematically review the studies which assess the effects of Compression therapy in mastectomy upper limb lymphedemaMethods: Systematic review of all published studies with all research designs except expert opinions. A search was made in Medline, Cochrane library, PEDro and Google scholar; from the earliest date to 2015.Intervention: Compression therapy programs performed by the physical therapist in woman diagnosed as upper limb lymphedema post mastectomy Outcome measures: Lymphedema volume, joint mobility, pain and quality of life Results: Only 9 studies met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis could be done and the current level of evidence to support the effectiveness of compression therapy on upper limb lymphedema volume is strong and only 2 studies of meta analysis support effectiveness of compression therapy on joint mobility is weak . As according to this review there is no support enough to use compression therapy to improve joint mobility but compression therapy has strong effect on reduction of lymphedema volume Conclusion: The current level of evidence to support the effectiveness of compression therapy in reduction of upper limb lymphedema volume post mastectomy is good

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