Warm Acupuncture for Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema

Comparison of Effectiveness Between Warm Acupuncture With Local-Distal Points Association and Local Distribution Points Association in Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema Patients: A Multicenter, Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial

The purpose of this study is to clarify whether local-distal point association is more effective than local point association by warm acupuncture in the management of breast cancer related lymphedema.

Inclusion Criteria:

• At least 6 months after breast cancer surgery and presents with persistent breast cancer related upper extremity lymphedema for at least 3 months. Upper extremity lymphedema is defined as more than 2cm circumference difference or 5% volume difference between the affected and unaffected arms.
• Stage II or III lymphedema according to the 2016 consensus by the international society of lymphology.
• Karnofsky Performance Score (KPS) ≥ 70
• Men or women aged 18 to 80 years
• Out-patients
• Estimated life expectancy > 6 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• Bilateral breast cancer related lymphedema
• Taking diuretic
• History of primary lymphedema
• A diagnosis of severe heart, liver, kidney or hematologic disease
• Edema caused by upper extremity disability or other conditions such as heart failure, kidney disease or malnutrition
• Have hypoproteinemia
• Inflammation, scar, or trauma at the site of operation, or other active skin infections
• Unable to self-care, had a history of psychological disorders, or unable to communicate
• Received lymphedema treatment within the past 1 month
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• The presence of electronic medical device implants
• Deny to sign the informed written consent, or unwilling to conform to randomization
• Participation in other clinical trials during the study period