The effect of postoperative physiotherapy on lymphatic drainage and postoperative complications in breast cancer patients: A review of availableevidence

Introduction & Aim: One of the most common side effects in treating breast cancer is upperlimb lymph nodes. Secondary lymph is a chronic complication that reduces organ function andimpairs the quality of life of the individual. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectof physiotherapy after lymphatic surgery in breast cancer patients.Methods: This systematic review took place by searching the databases Magiran, SID, Googlescholar, Pubmed, Amedeo and elmnet with keywords Breast cancer, lymphedema, physicaltherapy, quality of life and upper limb during 2000 to 2018. Interventional articles have beenused in this study.Results: The results of various studies showed that after the intervention of physiotherapy inpatients with breast cancer after surgery, life quality variables in physical, emotional and socialdimensions, independence in daily activities, shoulder function and secondary lymph nodes werestatistically significant increased. Also, the pain variable in these subjects was decreasedstatistically significant. The duration of the intervention in these patients was between 4 and 12weeks.Conclusions: Based on the results obtained from various articles, physiotherapy is a usefulmethod for reducing postoperative complications and subsequent lymph nodes in patients withbreast cancer, so it is necessary to use this method in hospitals and oncology departments forthese patients. It is also suggested that in future studies, the effect of physical therapy on otheraspects of their lives should also be taken.

Keywords:

Breast cancer , lymphedema , physical therapy , quality of life , upper limb