A new device may help diagnose a common condition after breast cancer surgery, before it becomes a major problem.
In the months, even years after surgery, patients still have to worry about developing a condition called lymphedema.
Fluid builds up in the arm after lymph nodes are removed -- restricting motion and causing painful swelling that can be extreme and very noticeable.
Now doctors at Montefiore Einstein Center for Cancer Care in New York are testing a new device that could pick up early signs of the condition.
The L-Dex uses pads like those used with an EKG. then a weak electrical current goes through the arm and measures any increases in fluid.
Doctors say it's the same current you would feel and perceive if you held a double-A battery between two fingers so it's minimal .
If the L-Dex shows there's extra fluid, doctors can begin early treatments to keep the condition under control. Treatments for lymphadema include massage and compression garments.
In the months, even years after surgery, patients still have to worry about developing a condition called lymphedema.
Fluid builds up in the arm after lymph nodes are removed -- restricting motion and causing painful swelling that can be extreme and very noticeable.
Now doctors at Montefiore Einstein Center for Cancer Care in New York are testing a new device that could pick up early signs of the condition.
The L-Dex uses pads like those used with an EKG. then a weak electrical current goes through the arm and measures any increases in fluid.
Doctors say it's the same current you would feel and perceive if you held a double-A battery between two fingers so it's minimal .
If the L-Dex shows there's extra fluid, doctors can begin early treatments to keep the condition under control. Treatments for lymphadema include massage and compression garments.
