Effect of Pneumatic Tourniquet on Arm Swelling After Lymph Node Removal

The Effect of Pneumatic Tourniquet Use on Upper Extremity Edema Following Axillary Lymph Node Dissection

The purpose of the proposed study is to evaluate the acute impact of swelling caused by low-pressure tourniquet use in the setting of ipsilateral prior axillary lymph node dissection and the change in swelling reduction following tourniquet use in three limb postures versus healthy volunteers.

PRIMARY OBJECTIVES:

I. To evaluate reduction in swelling and safety of tourniquet use in patients with prior axillary lymph node dissection

OUTLINE:

Participants raise their arm for 15 minutes, then wear a tourniquet inflated for 25 minutes. Hand volume is measured by aqueous volumeter at baseline, after use of the tourniquet and every 5 minutes for 30 minutes, while the arm is placed at a raised on head position, shoulder-level brace position, or at waist in a sling position.

PROCEDURE:

Participants raise their arm for 15 minutes, then wear a tourniquet 8000 inflated for 25 minutes. Hand volume is measured by aqueous volumeter at baseline, after use of the tourniquet and every 5 minutes for 30 minutes, while the arm is placed at a raised on head position, shoulder-level brace position, or at waist in a sling position.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Have previously undergone axillary lymph node dissection
• Or healthy volunteers

Exclusion Criteria:

• Have new-onset lymphedema of the involved limb.
• Infection including cellulitis
• Trauma or planned axillary surgery within 6 months of participation
• Any prior axillary radiation