Efficacy of Compression Stockings in Prophylaxis of Lower Limb Lymphedema in Women Undergoing Treatment for Gynecological Malignancies: A Prospective Randomized Study
by
, , and
Joanna Kurpiewska-Pieniążek
1,2,*
,
Katarzyna Ochałek
2,3,
Tomasz Grądalski
2,4 and
Andrzej Szuba
5 1
Faculty of Health Sciences, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University, 30-705 Kraków, Poland
2
St. Lazarus Hospice, 31-831 Kraków, Poland
3
Department of Clinical Rehabilitation, University of Physical Culture, 31-571 Kraków, Poland
4
Chair of Palliative Care, Medical Faculty, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University, 30-705 Kraków, Poland
5
Department of Angiology and Internal Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-367 Wrocław, Poland
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Cancers 2025, 17(15), 2530; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17152530
Submission received: 23 May 2025
/
Revised: 22 July 2025
/
Accepted: 29 July 2025
/
Published: 31 July 2025
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Perioperative Care in Gynecologic Oncology: 2nd Edition)
Simple Summary
Lower limb lymphedema (LLL) is a common yet underdiagnosed complication after gynecological cancer treatment that can significantly impair quality of life. This study evaluated the effectiveness of medium-pressure compression stockings, combined with education and physical activity, in preventing LLL in women after cancer surgery. The results showed a significant reduction in lymphedema incidence and symptom severity in the compression group compared to the controls. These findings support the use of compression therapy as a safe and effective preventive strategy.
Abstract
Background: Lower limb lymphedema (LLL) is a frequent complication after gynecological cancer treatment, with a significant impact on quality of life. Despite the common use of compression therapy in managing established lymphedema, its role in prevention remains insufficiently explored. Methods: In this prospective randomized study, 64 women treated for gynecological malignancies were assigned to either a compression group (CG) using medium-pressure stockings (23–32 mmHg) or a no-compression group (NCG). All participants received standard education and physical activity guidance. Limb volume, symptom burden, and quality of life were assessed over 12 months. Results: The incidence of LLL was significantly lower in the CG (3.4%) compared to the NCG (38%, p = 0.003). Compression use resulted in significant reductions in limb volume and symptom severity, as well as improved physical functioning. Compliance with compression therapy was high, and patients reported good comfort and usability. Conclusions: Medium-pressure compression stockings combined with education and physical activity are effective and well-tolerated in preventing LLL following gynecological cancer treatment.
