Lymphedema after pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy—results of a systematic evaluation in patients with cervical and endometrial carcinoma

R. Armbrust, V. Auletta, G. Cichon, G. Vercellino, K. Yost, J. Sehouli

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background: Lymphedema is a frequent complication after surgical treatment in gynecological oncology with substantial impact on patients´ Quality of Life (QoL). Little is known about screening instruments and prevention. Primary objective was to develop and validate the German version of a 13 items screening questionnaire (SQ) developed by Yost et al. to provide a valid instrument for early diagnosis of lower extremity lymphedema (LEL). Methods: After translation the SQ was used in pt. with cervical or endometrial cancer who underwent pelvic/paraaortic Lymphadenectomy. Sensitivity and specifity were analysed regarding possible prediction and influencing factors of LEL. Results: 67 pt. had LEL (N = 128). Nearly 50% of women in each group (38 in LEL + e 30 in LEL −) had a body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m2. Number of removed lymphnodes, radiotherapy and were significantly associated with development of LEL. Translated Mayo Clinic questionnaire can be used with reliable specifity and sensitivity. Four additional questions improved the diagnostic accuracy of the SQ. Conclusions: The translated SQ is a valuable and predictive tool for screening and early detection of LEL in Gynecological cancer surgery and can even improved by adding simple questions.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1557-1565
Number of pages9
JournalArchives of Gynecology and Obstetrics
Volume307
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2023

Keywords

  • Cervical cancer
  • Endometrial cancer
  • Lymphadenectomy
  • Lymphedema

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Lymphedema after pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy—results of a systematic evaluation in patients with cervical and endometrial carcinoma'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this