Chronic oedema of the lower limb. Practical guidance on diagnosis, effective treatment and ongoing management

We are delighted to announce the release of the new EWMA Document “Chronic oedema of the lower limb. Practical guidance on diagnosis, effective treatment and ongoing management”. The document is developed in collaboration with the International Lymphoedema Framework (ILF).

This comprehensive document provides evidence-based recommendations for the assessment, diagnosis and management of chronic oedema, including secondary chronic oedema (lymphoedema). It highlights the importance of early intervention, multidisciplinary collaboration and equitable access to care across Europe.

What does the document cover?

  • Pathophysiology of chronic oedema of the lower limb

  • Lower leg swelling: Diagnosis and management

  • Conservative treatment in the management of chronic oedema

  • Skin and wound care considerations

  • Compression therapy: The gold standard for the management of chronic oedema of the lower limb

  • Clinical pathways for lower limb oedema management

  • How to live better with lower limb lymphoedema – a patient’s perspective

  • Epidemiology and health economy perspectives on chronic oedema.

The document is an essential resource for clinicians, educators, policymakers, and anyone involved in the management of patients with chronic oedema.

A huge thank to the author group: Mark Collier (Editor), Christine Moffatt (Editor), Adrian Barbul, Rona Frances Campbell, Pascal Filori, Lauren Haughey, Matt Hazledine, Minna Hellgren, Alison Hopkins, Kirsi Isoherranen, Heli Lagus and Hayley Ryan.

The document is kindly supported by Essity, Lohmann & Rauscher, Solventum and Urgo.

You can read and download the paper for free here.

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