Terapia física complexa como tratamento no linfedema secundário ao câncer de mama: revisão integrativa da literatura

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer-related lymphedema is a chronic complication resulting from surgery and radiotherapy. The accumulation of interstitial fluid causes edema, pain, and range of motion restriction, negatively impacting women's functionality and quality of life. Given the increased survival rate of these patients, physical therapy emerges as an indispensable resource in the rehabilitation of this condition. Objective: To describe, through an integrative literature review, the evidence on the use of complete decongestive therapy in the management of lymphedema in post-breast cancer women. Methods: Integrative literature review. The search was conducted in the Virtual Health Library (VHL) and PubMed. The descriptors used were physiotherapeutic modalities, lymphedema, and breast cancer. Results: The majority of the selected scientific articles showed that complete decongestive therapy contributes to volume reduction, symptom relief, and improved quality of life. It is highlighted that treatment efficacy depends on a multimodal approach, patient adherence, and long-term follow-up. Conclusion: Complete decongestive therapies are considered effective in the management of secondary post-breast cancer lymphedema, working to reduce complications and improve functionality.