Department of Clinical Trial Design and Management, Translational Research Center, Kyoto University Hospital,
BACKGROUND: Lymph node dissection has proven prognostic benefits for patients with ovarian or uterine carcinoma; however, one of the complications associated with this procedure is lymphedema. We aimed to identify the factors that are associated with the occurrence of lymphedema after lymph node dissection for the treatment of ovarian or uterine carcinoma.
METHODS: A total of 694 patients with histologically confirmed ovarian (135 patients) or uterine cancer (258 with cervical cancer, 301 with endometrial cancer) who underwent lymph node dissection were studied retrospectively. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify the risk factors associated with occurrence of lymphedema.
RESULTS: Among ovarian and uterine cancer patients who underwent pelvic lymph node dissection, post-operative radiotherapy (odds ratio: 1.79; 95% confidence interval: 1.20-2.67; p = 0.006) was statistically significantly associated with occurrence of lymphedema.
CONCLUSION: There was no relationship between any surgical procedure and occurrence of lymphedema among patients undergoing pelvic lymphadenectomy. Our findings are supported by a sound biological rationale because they suggest that limb lymphedema is caused by pelvic lymph node dissection.
*Editor's note: It is rare that I openly place a note of disagreement on an article, but in this case, I think one is called for. The incident ratio of lower limb lymphedema from gynecological cancer is skyrocketing with survival rates increasing as well. It is well document that the removal of lymph nodes damages the lymph system and that a damaged lymph system can lead to lymphedema. I would suggest that they doctors involved in this study go back to their research. Pat
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