Head and Neck Cancer Lymphedema

MAKE THE CONNECTION

between head and neck cancer and lymphedema

A healthy lymphatic system moves lymph fluid throughout the body. During cancer treatment, tumors, surgery and radiation can cause damage to the lymphatics. This damage can cause the lymph fluid to pool instead of flow, leading to debilitating internal and external swelling.

This is lymphedema.

The Signs and Symptoms of Lymphedema^*

Dysphagia
Pain, discomfort, tightness
Scarring or fibrosis
Reduced range of motion
Difficulty breathing
Swelling – internal and external
Vocal changes or difficulty speaking

* American Society of Clinical Oncology
1. Ridner, S.H., et al., A prospective Study of the Lymphedema and Fibrosis Continuum
in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer. Lymphat Res Biol, 2016. 14(4): p. 198-205

Lymphedema Can Be External and Internal

Lymphedema is a chronic,
progressive disease.

Untreated swelling
leads to fibrosis.

How to Identify Lymphedema

CT Scan

FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation
of Swallowing)

Seven-month post treatment scan²:

Submental Swelling
Epiglottis thickened
Prevertebral soft tissue swelling at C3

Example FEES Video

2. Deng J, et al. Assessment and measurement of head and neck lymphedema: State-of-the-science and future directions. Oral Oncology. 2015 51 (431-437)

HOW TO TREAT LYMPHEDEMA

In-Clinic Treatment:

Lymphedema therapy
Speech pathology

Daily Home Treatment:

Lymphatic drainage via pneumatic compression
Compression/exercise
Elevation while sleeping

Flexitouch Plus is the only FDA cleared pneumatic
compression device for head and neck cancer-related lymphedema and can be prescribed
during routine follow up care.

It takes just 32 minutes per day.

MAKE THE CONNECTION

The Signs and Symptoms of Lymphedema*