Effectiveness of Cohesive Bandage on Axillary Web Syndrome After

Effectiveness of Cohesive Bandage on Axillary Web Syndrome After Breast Cancer Surgery: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of cohesive bandage on the axillary web syndrome in improving pain, reducing swelling and increasing mobility and functionality of the shoulder. Design: randomized single-blinded controlled trial. Follow-up: five physical therapy assessments: pre-intervention; post-intervention, 3 and 6 months post-intervention post-intervention. Participants: 90 consecutive women diagnosed with axillary web syndrome after undergoing unilateral breast cancer surgery with ALND or SLND at the Prıíncipe de Asturias Hospital in Alcalà de Henares, Madrid (Spain). Randomization: women will be randomly assigned to two groups by EpiData 3.1 software. Interventions: Control group: Physical Therapy composed of manual lymph-drainage technique in axilla, and proximal ipsilateral arm, specific thumb manual lymph-drainage on the taut cords to make them gradually more flexible, in conjunction with progressive active arm therapeutic exercises; Intervention group: progressive active arm therapeutic exercises with cohesive bandage.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Unilateral breast cancer;
• Breast surgery with lymphadenectomy and / or sentinel lymph node biopsy;
• Axillary web syndrome in upper limb of the operated side;
• Consent to participate in the study;
• No contraindications.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cognitive impairment;
• Visual impairment for reading;
• Lymphedema;
• Bilateral breast cancer;
• Systemic disease (metastases),
• Infection;
• Locoregional recurrence.