This paper proposes an adaptive neural network sliding mode control based on fractional-order ultra-local model for n-DOF upper-limb exoskeleton in presence of uncertainties,external disturbances and input deadzone.Co...This paper proposes an adaptive neural network sliding mode control based on fractional-order ultra-local model for n-DOF upper-limb exoskeleton in presence of uncertainties,external disturbances and input deadzone.Considering the model complexity and input deadzone,a fractional-order ultra-local model is proposed to formulate the original dynamic system for simple controller design.Firstly,the control gain of ultra-local model is considered as a constant.The fractional-order sliding mode technique is designed to stabilize the closed-loop system,while fractional-order time-delay estimation is combined with neural network to estimate the lumped disturbance.Correspondingly,a fractional-order ultra-local model-based neural network sliding mode controller(FO-NNSMC) is proposed.Secondly,to avoid disadvantageous effect of improper gain selection on the control performance,the control gain of ultra-local model is considered as an unknown parameter.Then,the Nussbaum technique is introduced into the FO-NNSMC to deal with the stability problem with unknown gain.Correspondingly,a fractional-order ultra-local model-based adaptive neural network sliding mode controller(FO-ANNSMC) is proposed.Moreover,the stability analysis of the closed-loop system with the proposed method is presented by using the Lyapunov theory.Finally,with the co-simulations on virtual prototype of 7-DOF iReHave upper-limb exoskeleton and experiments on 2-DOF upper-limb exoskeleton,the obtained compared results illustrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Secondary lymphedema is one of the common complications after malignant tumor surgery. It is a chronic and complex disease. Once lymphedema occurs, there will be discomfort such as limb swelling, pain, num...BACKGROUND: Secondary lymphedema is one of the common complications after malignant tumor surgery. It is a chronic and complex disease. Once lymphedema occurs, there will be discomfort such as limb swelling, pain, numbness and tension, which will eventually lead to changes in the appearance of the affected limb and will seriously affect the quality of life and require lifelong treatment and psychosocial support. This study investigated the current situation of stigma and alexithymia in patients with lymphedema, and discussed the impact of alexithymia on stigma in patients with lymphedema. AIMS: To understand the current situation of stigma and alexithymia in patients with lymphedema, and to analyze the influence of alexithymia on stigma. METHODS: 195 patients with lymphedema in a hospital were selected by convenient sampling. General information questionnaire, Toronto Alexithymia Scale and social impact scale were used to investigate respectively, to study the general situation, stigma and alexithymia of the respondents. RESULTS: The results showed that the total score of stigma in 195 patients with lymphedema was (60.36 ± 11.08), and the total score of alexithymia was (56.53 ± 8.43). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that alexithymia and family relationship were the influencing factors of stigma in patients with lymphedema. CONCLUSIONS: The patients with lymphedema have obvious stigma, and alexithymia and family relationship are the influencing factors.展开更多
Objective: To explore the pre-treatment and efficacy analysis of comprehensive anti-inflammatory treatment for lymphedema in patients with irritating contact dermatitis. Method: Convenience sampling method was used to...Objective: To explore the pre-treatment and efficacy analysis of comprehensive anti-inflammatory treatment for lymphedema in patients with irritating contact dermatitis. Method: Convenience sampling method was used to observe the skin of 160 patients with upper limb lymphedema admitted to the lymphedema outpatient department of our hospital. They were divided into an observation group (80 cases) and a control group (80 cases), and both groups received a course of comprehensive anti-inflammatory treatment (20 treatments). The control group received routine skin care;On the basis of the control group, the observation group received pre-treatment of the affected limb skin: Laofuzi herbal ointment was applied externally to the prone areas of irritating contact dermatitis (such as the upper arm, inner forearm, and cubital fossa). Result: The incidence of irritating contact dermatitis in the observation group was significantly lower than that in the control group (P 0.05). Patients in the observation group felt significantly better in terms of comfort, skin moisture, and itching relief after being wrapped with low elasticity bandages than those in the control group (P Conclusion: Preventive treatment can effectively reduce the incidence of irritating contact dermatitis, prolong the time of stress treatment, thereby increasing efficacy and improving patient compliance.展开更多
Lymphedema is a prevalent complication affecting patients with breast cancer,greatly impacting their quality of life.This editorial describes diagnostic methods and therapeutic interventions for managing lymphedema in...Lymphedema is a prevalent complication affecting patients with breast cancer,greatly impacting their quality of life.This editorial describes diagnostic methods and therapeutic interventions for managing lymphedema in patients with breast cancer.Diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation and objective measures,including arm circumference and volumetric assessments,along with lymphoscintigraphy and ultrasonic measurements.Treatment primarily involves complex decongestive physical therapy,comprising manual lymphatic drainage,compression therapy,exercise,and meticulous skin care.These interventions aim to reduce swelling,alleviate discomfort,and prevent further complications.Additionally,lifestyle modifications such as avoiding extreme temperatures and maintaining proper hygiene are essential.Flavonoids can be used for drug therapy.Despite its prevalence,lymphedema often receives inadequate attention in clinical practice,emphasizing the importance of raising awareness and enhancing medical services for affected individuals.Clinicians play a pivotal role in educating patients about preventive measures and ensuring timely intervention.Overall,a comprehensive approach encompassing early diagnosis,multidisciplinary management,and patient education is essential to mitigate the burden of lymphedema in patients with breast cancer and improve their overall well-being.展开更多
BACKGROUND Tuberous sclerosis complex(TSC)and primary lymphedema(PLE)are both rare diseases,and it is even rarer for both to occur in the same patient.In this work,we have provided a detailed description of a patient&...BACKGROUND Tuberous sclerosis complex(TSC)and primary lymphedema(PLE)are both rare diseases,and it is even rarer for both to occur in the same patient.In this work,we have provided a detailed description of a patient's clinical presentation,imaging findings,and treatment.And a retrospective analysis was conducted on 14 published relevant case reports.CASE SUMMARY A 16-year-old male came to our hospital for treatment due to right lower limb swelling.This swelling is already present from birth.The patient’s memory had been progressively declining.Seizures had occurred 1 year prior at an unknown frequency.The patient was diagnosed with TSC combined with PLE through multimodal imaging examination:Computed tomography,magnetic resonance imaging,and lymphoscintigraphy.The patient underwent liposuction.The swelling of the patient's right lower limb significantly improved after surgery.Epilepsy did not occur.after taking antiepileptic drugs and sirolimus.CONCLUSION TSC with PLE is a rare and systemic disease.Imaging can detect lesions of this disease,which are important for diagnosis and treatment.展开更多
Background:Lymphedema is a debilitating condition that frequently occurs after breast cancer treatment.Vas-cularized lymph node transfer(VLNT)is a promising approach to reduce lymphedema.This study used magnetic reson...Background:Lymphedema is a debilitating condition that frequently occurs after breast cancer treatment.Vas-cularized lymph node transfer(VLNT)is a promising approach to reduce lymphedema.This study used magnetic resonance lymphangiography(MRL)to assess lymphatic reconnections post-VLNT in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema(BCRL).Methods:The clinical records of six female patients with unilateral upper limb BCRL who underwent VLNT(4 cases)or VLNT combined with breast reconstruction(2 cases)were retrospectively reviewed.All patients were examined using MRL preoperatively and at the 1-year follow-up.The morphological characteristics of the lymphatic network,dermal backflow patterns,and architecture of the lymph nodes were evaluated.Clinical outcomes,patient satisfaction,and complications were assessed.Results:At the 1-year follow-up,reduction in tissue edema and limb circumference was achieved in all six patients.In MRL,the implanted lymph nodes in the axillary region of the affected upper arm were enhanced and visualized in all six patients.Reconnected lymphatic vessels in the subcutaneous tissue associated with the implanted lymph nodes were observed in four patients.Decreased dermal backflow and lymphatic vessel dilation of the affected limbs were observed in all six patients.No disruption of the lymph flow in the donor area was detected.Conclusion:This is the first study to provide direct imaging evidence for the reconnection of afferent lymphatic channels between implanted lymph nodes and the recipient lymphatic system in patients with BCRL.Overall,our study demonstrates the mechanism and efficacy of VLNT in reducing lymphedema.展开更多
BACKGROUND Lower extremity lymphedema is a common complication following treatment for gynecological malignancies.Its incidence rate can reach up to 70%,affecting~20 million people worldwide.However,specialized treatm...BACKGROUND Lower extremity lymphedema is a common complication following treatment for gynecological malignancies.Its incidence rate can reach up to 70%,affecting~20 million people worldwide.However,specialized treatment centers are scarce,and there is a lack of consensus on treatment approaches.Furthermore,there are even fewer reports on the systematic and effective treatment of severe lymphedema with malformations.Effective management of this condition remains a significant challenge for clinicians.CASE SUMMARY A 40-year-old woman developed bilateral leg swelling 6 years after receiving treatment for endometrial cancer.Since August 2018,she experienced>30 episodes of lymphangitis.Upon presentation,she exhibited bilateral leg swelling and deformation,with four large swellings in the posterior thigh that impeded movement,and pain in the limbs.Skin manifestations included lichenoid lesions and features of deep sclerosis.Radionuclide lymphoscintigraphy confirmed the diagnosis of lower limb lymphedema.After 6 mo of complex decongestive therapy(CDT)and three lymphaticovenous anastomosis(LVA)treatments,the patient lost 49 kg in weight.She also experienced a maximum circumference reduction of 35.2 cm in the left lower limb and 37.5 cm in the right lower limb.The leg pain disappeared,her swelling significantly decreased,and she regained the ability to walk,cycle,and run normally.CONCLUSION The combined application of CDT and LVA therapy demonstrates significant positive effects in the treatment of severe,deformed stage III lymphedema.展开更多
Objective To observe the efficacy of mild moxibustion combined with functional exercise in the treatment of upper-limb lymphedema after breast cancer surgery and its effect on serum vascular endothelial growth factor ...Objective To observe the efficacy of mild moxibustion combined with functional exercise in the treatment of upper-limb lymphedema after breast cancer surgery and its effect on serum vascular endothelial growth factor C(VEGF-C).Methods Seventy-eight patients were divided into a control group and an observation group by the random number table method,with 39 cases in each group.The control group received functional exercise and the observation group received mild moxibustion plus functional exercise.The differences in circumference between the two upper limbs,the lymphatic flow of the affected upper limb,the disability of arm,shoulder and hand(DASH)score,the functional assessment of cancer therapy-breast(FACT-B)score and serum VEGF-C level between the two groups were compared before and after treatment.Efficacy was evaluated after treatment.Results The total effective rate was significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group(P<0.05).The difference in circumference between the two upper limbs of the two groups decreased significantly after treatment(both P<0.05),but it was significantly lower in the observation group than in the control group(P<0.05).The lymphatic flow of the affected upper limb of the two groups increased significantly after treatment(both P<0.05),but it was significantly greater in the observation group than in the control group(P<0.05).The DASH scores of the two groups decreased significantly after treatment(both P<0.05),but it was significantly lower in the observation group than in the control group(P<0.05).The FACT-B scores of the two groups increased significantly after treatment(both P<0.05),but it was significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group(P<0.05).After treatment,the serum VEGF-C level increased significantly in the observation group(P<0.05),whereas the control group did not show significant change(P>0.05).The post-treatment serum VEGF-C level was significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group(P<0.05).Conclusion The efficacy of mild moxibustion combined with functional exercise for upper-limb lymphedema after breast cancer surgery is certain,which can reduce the difference in circumference between the two upper limbs,increase the lymphatic flow of the affected upper limb,improve the limb function and the quality of life,and regulate the serum VEGF-C level.展开更多
Introduction: Breast cancer is the number one malignancy affecting females in Saudi Arabia with a prevalence of 22.4%. Breast cancer incidence increases annually due to the aid of established screening programs, leadi...Introduction: Breast cancer is the number one malignancy affecting females in Saudi Arabia with a prevalence of 22.4%. Breast cancer incidence increases annually due to the aid of established screening programs, leading to the discovery of breast cancer in its early stages. Surgical treatment is an integral part of early breast cancer management to achieve local control. Axillary surgical interventions such sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) and axillary lymph node clearance (ALND) aim to stage the axilla as an adjunct to the management of the primary breast tumor. In this paper, we reviewed female breast cancer patients aged 30 - 60 who underwent surgical treatment of SLNB and/or ALND with reporting the prevalence of lymphedema and other associated complications and risk factors. Methodology: A cross-sectional non-interventional study, with a sample size of 250 including breast cancer cases from 2016 to 2019 at National Guard Hospital (NGH) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Results: A total of 253 breast cancer cases were included in this study, with a mean age of 53 years, 52.7% were postmenopausal and positive family history was present among 21% of cases. Further, 90.9% of the cases had unilateral disease. Staging was as follows: stage I 14.5%, stage II 45.2%, stage III 37.1%, and stage IV 3.2%. Mastectomy was done in 73.4% cases and lumpectomy was performed in 34.1% of cases. In addition, 93.3% of patients had SLNB and 49% of them were positive. Axillary dissection was performed in 69.6% of our patients. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy were given to 71.8% and 80.4% of cases respectively. Among the chemotherapy (chemo) recipients, 40.2% received adjuvant chemo, 54.5% received neoadjuvant chemo, and the remaining 5.3% received both. Further, the most prevalent complication was pain accounting for 42.1% of total complications, and the least prevalent was cellulitis 4%. Also, seroma developed in 18.3% cases, paresthesia noted in 5.6% of cases, winged scapula was reported as 2%, weakness and necrosis were seen in 6% and 13.1% of cases respectively. Axillary vein thrombosis and lymphangiosarcoma were reported in none of the patients (0%). Lymphoedema accounted for 16.1% of overall complications, 85% of the patients who developed lymphedema had undergone ALND, and 12.9% and 14.4% received radiotherapy and chemotherapy respectively. Lymphedema was observed in breast cancer stages as follows: stage I 1.2%, stage II 7.2%, and stage III 5.2%. Patients with body mass index (BMI) of 30 - 39 kg/m<sup>2</sup> had 7.2% prevalence of lymphedema compared to other BMI groups. Overall mortality was 8.3%. Conclusion: The findings of our study suggest that the prevalence of lymphedema was higher in ALND patients with locally advanced tumors, and higher BMI, compared to patients with stage I breast cancer and low BMI. Further, the prevalence of lymphedema in patients who underwent ALND was significantly lower than those who were treated by lumpectomy 10.3% (p-value = 0.034) in comparison to mastectomy 19.3%.展开更多
基金supported in part by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (62173182,61773212)the Intergovernmental International Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Key Project of Chinese National Key R&D Program (2021YFE0102700)。
文摘This paper proposes an adaptive neural network sliding mode control based on fractional-order ultra-local model for n-DOF upper-limb exoskeleton in presence of uncertainties,external disturbances and input deadzone.Considering the model complexity and input deadzone,a fractional-order ultra-local model is proposed to formulate the original dynamic system for simple controller design.Firstly,the control gain of ultra-local model is considered as a constant.The fractional-order sliding mode technique is designed to stabilize the closed-loop system,while fractional-order time-delay estimation is combined with neural network to estimate the lumped disturbance.Correspondingly,a fractional-order ultra-local model-based neural network sliding mode controller(FO-NNSMC) is proposed.Secondly,to avoid disadvantageous effect of improper gain selection on the control performance,the control gain of ultra-local model is considered as an unknown parameter.Then,the Nussbaum technique is introduced into the FO-NNSMC to deal with the stability problem with unknown gain.Correspondingly,a fractional-order ultra-local model-based adaptive neural network sliding mode controller(FO-ANNSMC) is proposed.Moreover,the stability analysis of the closed-loop system with the proposed method is presented by using the Lyapunov theory.Finally,with the co-simulations on virtual prototype of 7-DOF iReHave upper-limb exoskeleton and experiments on 2-DOF upper-limb exoskeleton,the obtained compared results illustrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method.
文摘BACKGROUND: Secondary lymphedema is one of the common complications after malignant tumor surgery. It is a chronic and complex disease. Once lymphedema occurs, there will be discomfort such as limb swelling, pain, numbness and tension, which will eventually lead to changes in the appearance of the affected limb and will seriously affect the quality of life and require lifelong treatment and psychosocial support. This study investigated the current situation of stigma and alexithymia in patients with lymphedema, and discussed the impact of alexithymia on stigma in patients with lymphedema. AIMS: To understand the current situation of stigma and alexithymia in patients with lymphedema, and to analyze the influence of alexithymia on stigma. METHODS: 195 patients with lymphedema in a hospital were selected by convenient sampling. General information questionnaire, Toronto Alexithymia Scale and social impact scale were used to investigate respectively, to study the general situation, stigma and alexithymia of the respondents. RESULTS: The results showed that the total score of stigma in 195 patients with lymphedema was (60.36 ± 11.08), and the total score of alexithymia was (56.53 ± 8.43). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that alexithymia and family relationship were the influencing factors of stigma in patients with lymphedema. CONCLUSIONS: The patients with lymphedema have obvious stigma, and alexithymia and family relationship are the influencing factors.
文摘Objective: To explore the pre-treatment and efficacy analysis of comprehensive anti-inflammatory treatment for lymphedema in patients with irritating contact dermatitis. Method: Convenience sampling method was used to observe the skin of 160 patients with upper limb lymphedema admitted to the lymphedema outpatient department of our hospital. They were divided into an observation group (80 cases) and a control group (80 cases), and both groups received a course of comprehensive anti-inflammatory treatment (20 treatments). The control group received routine skin care;On the basis of the control group, the observation group received pre-treatment of the affected limb skin: Laofuzi herbal ointment was applied externally to the prone areas of irritating contact dermatitis (such as the upper arm, inner forearm, and cubital fossa). Result: The incidence of irritating contact dermatitis in the observation group was significantly lower than that in the control group (P 0.05). Patients in the observation group felt significantly better in terms of comfort, skin moisture, and itching relief after being wrapped with low elasticity bandages than those in the control group (P Conclusion: Preventive treatment can effectively reduce the incidence of irritating contact dermatitis, prolong the time of stress treatment, thereby increasing efficacy and improving patient compliance.
基金Supported by The National Research Foundation of Korea Grant funded by the Korea Government,No.00219725.
文摘Lymphedema is a prevalent complication affecting patients with breast cancer,greatly impacting their quality of life.This editorial describes diagnostic methods and therapeutic interventions for managing lymphedema in patients with breast cancer.Diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation and objective measures,including arm circumference and volumetric assessments,along with lymphoscintigraphy and ultrasonic measurements.Treatment primarily involves complex decongestive physical therapy,comprising manual lymphatic drainage,compression therapy,exercise,and meticulous skin care.These interventions aim to reduce swelling,alleviate discomfort,and prevent further complications.Additionally,lifestyle modifications such as avoiding extreme temperatures and maintaining proper hygiene are essential.Flavonoids can be used for drug therapy.Despite its prevalence,lymphedema often receives inadequate attention in clinical practice,emphasizing the importance of raising awareness and enhancing medical services for affected individuals.Clinicians play a pivotal role in educating patients about preventive measures and ensuring timely intervention.Overall,a comprehensive approach encompassing early diagnosis,multidisciplinary management,and patient education is essential to mitigate the burden of lymphedema in patients with breast cancer and improve their overall well-being.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.61876216.
文摘BACKGROUND Tuberous sclerosis complex(TSC)and primary lymphedema(PLE)are both rare diseases,and it is even rarer for both to occur in the same patient.In this work,we have provided a detailed description of a patient's clinical presentation,imaging findings,and treatment.And a retrospective analysis was conducted on 14 published relevant case reports.CASE SUMMARY A 16-year-old male came to our hospital for treatment due to right lower limb swelling.This swelling is already present from birth.The patient’s memory had been progressively declining.Seizures had occurred 1 year prior at an unknown frequency.The patient was diagnosed with TSC combined with PLE through multimodal imaging examination:Computed tomography,magnetic resonance imaging,and lymphoscintigraphy.The patient underwent liposuction.The swelling of the patient's right lower limb significantly improved after surgery.Epilepsy did not occur.after taking antiepileptic drugs and sirolimus.CONCLUSION TSC with PLE is a rare and systemic disease.Imaging can detect lesions of this disease,which are important for diagnosis and treatment.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(grant nos.81372080 and 82302822)Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Specialty(grant no.shslczdzk00901)Shanghai Sailing Program(grant no.21YF1424000).
文摘Background:Lymphedema is a debilitating condition that frequently occurs after breast cancer treatment.Vas-cularized lymph node transfer(VLNT)is a promising approach to reduce lymphedema.This study used magnetic resonance lymphangiography(MRL)to assess lymphatic reconnections post-VLNT in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema(BCRL).Methods:The clinical records of six female patients with unilateral upper limb BCRL who underwent VLNT(4 cases)or VLNT combined with breast reconstruction(2 cases)were retrospectively reviewed.All patients were examined using MRL preoperatively and at the 1-year follow-up.The morphological characteristics of the lymphatic network,dermal backflow patterns,and architecture of the lymph nodes were evaluated.Clinical outcomes,patient satisfaction,and complications were assessed.Results:At the 1-year follow-up,reduction in tissue edema and limb circumference was achieved in all six patients.In MRL,the implanted lymph nodes in the axillary region of the affected upper arm were enhanced and visualized in all six patients.Reconnected lymphatic vessels in the subcutaneous tissue associated with the implanted lymph nodes were observed in four patients.Decreased dermal backflow and lymphatic vessel dilation of the affected limbs were observed in all six patients.No disruption of the lymph flow in the donor area was detected.Conclusion:This is the first study to provide direct imaging evidence for the reconnection of afferent lymphatic channels between implanted lymph nodes and the recipient lymphatic system in patients with BCRL.Overall,our study demonstrates the mechanism and efficacy of VLNT in reducing lymphedema.
文摘BACKGROUND Lower extremity lymphedema is a common complication following treatment for gynecological malignancies.Its incidence rate can reach up to 70%,affecting~20 million people worldwide.However,specialized treatment centers are scarce,and there is a lack of consensus on treatment approaches.Furthermore,there are even fewer reports on the systematic and effective treatment of severe lymphedema with malformations.Effective management of this condition remains a significant challenge for clinicians.CASE SUMMARY A 40-year-old woman developed bilateral leg swelling 6 years after receiving treatment for endometrial cancer.Since August 2018,she experienced>30 episodes of lymphangitis.Upon presentation,she exhibited bilateral leg swelling and deformation,with four large swellings in the posterior thigh that impeded movement,and pain in the limbs.Skin manifestations included lichenoid lesions and features of deep sclerosis.Radionuclide lymphoscintigraphy confirmed the diagnosis of lower limb lymphedema.After 6 mo of complex decongestive therapy(CDT)and three lymphaticovenous anastomosis(LVA)treatments,the patient lost 49 kg in weight.She also experienced a maximum circumference reduction of 35.2 cm in the left lower limb and 37.5 cm in the right lower limb.The leg pain disappeared,her swelling significantly decreased,and she regained the ability to walk,cycle,and run normally.CONCLUSION The combined application of CDT and LVA therapy demonstrates significant positive effects in the treatment of severe,deformed stage III lymphedema.
文摘Objective To observe the efficacy of mild moxibustion combined with functional exercise in the treatment of upper-limb lymphedema after breast cancer surgery and its effect on serum vascular endothelial growth factor C(VEGF-C).Methods Seventy-eight patients were divided into a control group and an observation group by the random number table method,with 39 cases in each group.The control group received functional exercise and the observation group received mild moxibustion plus functional exercise.The differences in circumference between the two upper limbs,the lymphatic flow of the affected upper limb,the disability of arm,shoulder and hand(DASH)score,the functional assessment of cancer therapy-breast(FACT-B)score and serum VEGF-C level between the two groups were compared before and after treatment.Efficacy was evaluated after treatment.Results The total effective rate was significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group(P<0.05).The difference in circumference between the two upper limbs of the two groups decreased significantly after treatment(both P<0.05),but it was significantly lower in the observation group than in the control group(P<0.05).The lymphatic flow of the affected upper limb of the two groups increased significantly after treatment(both P<0.05),but it was significantly greater in the observation group than in the control group(P<0.05).The DASH scores of the two groups decreased significantly after treatment(both P<0.05),but it was significantly lower in the observation group than in the control group(P<0.05).The FACT-B scores of the two groups increased significantly after treatment(both P<0.05),but it was significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group(P<0.05).After treatment,the serum VEGF-C level increased significantly in the observation group(P<0.05),whereas the control group did not show significant change(P>0.05).The post-treatment serum VEGF-C level was significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group(P<0.05).Conclusion The efficacy of mild moxibustion combined with functional exercise for upper-limb lymphedema after breast cancer surgery is certain,which can reduce the difference in circumference between the two upper limbs,increase the lymphatic flow of the affected upper limb,improve the limb function and the quality of life,and regulate the serum VEGF-C level.
文摘Introduction: Breast cancer is the number one malignancy affecting females in Saudi Arabia with a prevalence of 22.4%. Breast cancer incidence increases annually due to the aid of established screening programs, leading to the discovery of breast cancer in its early stages. Surgical treatment is an integral part of early breast cancer management to achieve local control. Axillary surgical interventions such sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) and axillary lymph node clearance (ALND) aim to stage the axilla as an adjunct to the management of the primary breast tumor. In this paper, we reviewed female breast cancer patients aged 30 - 60 who underwent surgical treatment of SLNB and/or ALND with reporting the prevalence of lymphedema and other associated complications and risk factors. Methodology: A cross-sectional non-interventional study, with a sample size of 250 including breast cancer cases from 2016 to 2019 at National Guard Hospital (NGH) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Results: A total of 253 breast cancer cases were included in this study, with a mean age of 53 years, 52.7% were postmenopausal and positive family history was present among 21% of cases. Further, 90.9% of the cases had unilateral disease. Staging was as follows: stage I 14.5%, stage II 45.2%, stage III 37.1%, and stage IV 3.2%. Mastectomy was done in 73.4% cases and lumpectomy was performed in 34.1% of cases. In addition, 93.3% of patients had SLNB and 49% of them were positive. Axillary dissection was performed in 69.6% of our patients. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy were given to 71.8% and 80.4% of cases respectively. Among the chemotherapy (chemo) recipients, 40.2% received adjuvant chemo, 54.5% received neoadjuvant chemo, and the remaining 5.3% received both. Further, the most prevalent complication was pain accounting for 42.1% of total complications, and the least prevalent was cellulitis 4%. Also, seroma developed in 18.3% cases, paresthesia noted in 5.6% of cases, winged scapula was reported as 2%, weakness and necrosis were seen in 6% and 13.1% of cases respectively. Axillary vein thrombosis and lymphangiosarcoma were reported in none of the patients (0%). Lymphoedema accounted for 16.1% of overall complications, 85% of the patients who developed lymphedema had undergone ALND, and 12.9% and 14.4% received radiotherapy and chemotherapy respectively. Lymphedema was observed in breast cancer stages as follows: stage I 1.2%, stage II 7.2%, and stage III 5.2%. Patients with body mass index (BMI) of 30 - 39 kg/m<sup>2</sup> had 7.2% prevalence of lymphedema compared to other BMI groups. Overall mortality was 8.3%. Conclusion: The findings of our study suggest that the prevalence of lymphedema was higher in ALND patients with locally advanced tumors, and higher BMI, compared to patients with stage I breast cancer and low BMI. Further, the prevalence of lymphedema in patients who underwent ALND was significantly lower than those who were treated by lumpectomy 10.3% (p-value = 0.034) in comparison to mastectomy 19.3%.