Intravenous Pamidronate for Refractory Lymphedema
نویسندگان
1 Department of Radiology
2 Department of Internal Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Alzahra Hospital, Isfahan, Iran
3 Department of Vascular Surgery, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Alzahra Hospital, Isfahan, Iran,
4 Department of Surgery, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
5 Department of Surgery,
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چکیده
Background: Based on beneficial reports of pamidronate use for reflex sympathetic dystrophy in reduction ofpain and swelling, this drug can be studied as a novel treatment for refractory lymphedema. This study aims todetermine the effectiveness of pamidronate on lymphedema and its possible side effects.Methods: Twelve cases of lower limb refractory lymphedema were enrolled. They received intravenous pamidronatemonthly for 3 consecutive months and were followed by measuring any discomfort with visual analogscale (VAS) and physician global assessment, based on objective signs of limb volume and circumference.Results: The limb volume, circumference, and satisfaction of the patients improved significantly.Conclusion: Pamidronate when is added to conservative treatments may reduce lymphedema and improve thepatient’s comfort.
