This phase II trial evaluates manual lymphatic drainage breast massage for reducing treatment-related side effects in women undergoing radiation therapy after breast conserving surgery for breast cancer that has not spread to other parts of the body (localized). Breast conserving surgery can be an effective treatment option for early stage breast cancer, but it can also be associated with side effects including fluid collection in tissues/swelling (lymphedema), pain, reduced quality of life, and poorer body image. Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle massage technique used to reduce swelling. It may be a safe and effective way to reduce treatment-related side effects in women receiving radiation therapy after surgery for localized breast cancer.
Female with native breasts and localized breast cancer who are status post-lumpectomy surgery, will receive whole breast radiation therapy with/without nodal irradiation, with standard fractionation or moderate hypofractionation
Age >= 18 years
Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent in English or Spanish
Underlying diagnosis of chronic inflammatory illness or collagen vascular disorder, e.g. scleroderma, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia as these conditions may significantly affect the likelihood and magnitude of radiation related toxicity
Uncontrolled intercurrent illness including, but not limited to, ongoing or active infection, symptomatic congestive heart failure, unstable angina pectoris, unstable cardiac arrhythmia, or psychiatric illness/social situations that would limit compliance with study requirements
Inability to provide written informed consent in English or Spanish
Patients receiving ultra-hypofractionation, and/or partial breast or chest wall radiation therapy are excluded
University of Southern California
Lead sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator