Our Lymphoedema outpatient clinic provides advice and treatment to people who have swelling as a result of surgery or radiotherapy for cancer.

The clinic is a stand-alone outpatient service.  GPs, hospital consultants or specialists can refer their patients to us for Lymphoedema treatments only.  It is run by two specialist nurses with input from other members of our multi-professional team, as necessary.

Lymphoedema is a form of swelling due to damage or failure within the lymphatic channels and/or lymph glands.  It most commonly affects the limbs but can affect any part of the body. 

Lymphoedema cannot be cured but treatment can be given to control and reduce the swelling.  The condition can be managed with compression hosiery, exercise, skin care and self-massage.   More intensive treatment with multi-layer compression bandaging and manual lymphatic drainage may be offered to some patients.
 

• What happens after I have been referred?
• Where will I be seen?
• Will I have to pay for the compression hosiery?

What happens after I have been referred?

You will be offered an appointment with one of the specialist nurses and on occasions the hospice doctor.  The treatment options will be discussed with you and a plan for your care made.

Where will I be seen?

Most people are seen as outpatient at the Hospice.   If you have difficulty coming to the clinic, it is sometimes possible to make other arrangements.

Will I have to pay for the compression hosiery?

No, there is no charge made for treatment or hosiery.