Selecting appropriate compression for lymphedema patients: American Vein and Lymphatic Society position statement
Heather Hettrick, Suzie Ehmann, Brandy McKeown, Dean R. Bender, John Blebea
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Lymphedema is a significant and disabling disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. Compression therapy is an important component of lifelong treatment but the specifics of appropriate compression garment selection and prescribing is not always well understood by practitioners and payers. METHOD: An expert panel of the American Vein and Lymphatic Society was convened to write a Position Statement with explanations and recommendations for the appropriate compression therapy to be used in the treatment of lymphedema patients. RESULT: A Position Statement was produced by the expert panel with recommendations for documentation and compression therapy treatment. Their recommendations were reviewed, edited, and approved by the Guidelines Committee of the society. CONCLUSION: This societal Position Statement provides a useful document for reference for medical care providers for the appropriate compression therapy selection and treatment of patients with lymphedema.