Lymphedema and mammograms

[AmySmith]

I have lymphedema in my breast and am concerned about the pressure a mammogram will put on it. Does anyone have any experience with this?
Thanks! Amy

[cpthomas]

Dear Amy,

I just wanted to post my thoughts regarding your question on the mammogram. Edema in a breast is often difficult to manage and I can appreciate your concern that the pressure put on the tissues by a mammogram will increase the lymphedema there.

On the flip side the information that will be garnered by the mammorgram is obviously very important to your health and it is likely a necessary test. I would first discuss the issue with the doctor who is ordering the mammogram...perhaps the information that is needed could be obtained by ultrasound, CT Scan, or PET Scan instead.

If the doctor feels the mammogram is the most appropriate test, here are some things you can do to minimize the effects on your edema. Do self-Manual Lymph Drainage the morning of or just before the test. Wear your normal compression garment to the test, and put it back on immediately after the test is over. Perform self-MLD to the region again after you get home. Also, discuss your concerns with the technician performing the mammogram, so that they can use the least pressure/time possible while still getting a good image.


I hope this information helps, if you have other questions please don't hesitate to post them here.

Sincerely,
Christine Thomas