Head and Neck Lymphedema Clinical Trial
About the Trial
Tactile Medical is collaborating with research institutions across the country on the largest randomized control trial conducted on effective management of lymphedema and fibrosis in head and neck cancer survivors. The trial will evaluate the short and long-term effectiveness of at-home management with the Flexitouch Plus system to usual care such as complete congestive therapy.
Results from other clinical trials, have shown promising clinical outcomes as patients using Flexitouch for home lymphedema and fibrosis management experience reduced swelling, improved swallowing, and better pain management among other benefits. In fact, clinical studies show that Flexitouch therapy significantly reduces the severity of fibrosis, with 97% of patients reporting softer tissue following use.
You can learn more about the current study by visiting ClinicalTrials.gov.
About Lymphedema with Head and Neck Cancer
Over 90% of head and neck cancer survivors develop lymphedema post-treatment, and nearly half also experience fibrosis.
Head and neck cancer treatments often lead to lymphedema – a chronic swelling condition that may be caused by damage to the lymphatic system. The swelling can be both internal and external and cause pain, reduced range of motion and difficulty swallowing, speaking and breathing.
Fibrosis, or the hardening and thickening of soft tissue, frequently develops alongside lymphedema in this population. This can further restrict movement, create discomfort, and complicate recovery. Flexitouch is uniquely designed to address both conditions by mobilizing protein-rich lymphatic fluid, reducing inflammation, and softening fibrotic tissue.
As with any chronic, progressive condition, early intervention and practical tools for daily management create the best results. Head and neck cancer treatments often lead to lymphedema – a chronic swelling condition that may be caused by damage to the lymphatic system. The swelling can be both internal and external and cause pain, reduced range of motion and difficulty swallowing, speaking and breathing.
Lymphedema can be debilitating and make it hard for survivors of head and neck cancer to start enjoying life again.
As with any chronic condition that is progressive, early intervention and effective daily management tools produce the best results.
1 Ridner, S.H., et al., A prospective Study of the Lymphedema and Fibrosis Continuum in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer. Lymphat Res Biol, 2016. 14(4): p. 198-205.
2 Ridner, S.H., et al., Randomized Controlled Trial of a Head and Neck Lymphedema Therapy, 2020.
Learn more about Flexitouch Plus
Flexitouch Plus helps reduce swelling and relieve symptoms of head and neck lymphedema with effective treatments that are:
- Consistent: Unlike manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), effective treatment doesn’t depend on patient technique or ability. Repeatable results and high patient satisfaction encourage ongoing use and better outcomes.
- Comfortable: Garments are made of soft, comfortable fabric. Dynamic pressure feels like a soothing massage.
- Clinically Proven: Clinical evidence shows Flexitouch combined with self-management is proven to work better than self-management alone providing better outcomes for patients.
- Convenient: The patient-friendly head and chest garments are designed for ease-of-use when treating independently at home.
Flexitouch Plus System: How it Works Video
The Flexitouch Plus system provides at-home pneumatic compression therapy for daily management and symptom relief in just 32 minutes.
Lymphedema Therapist and HNC Survivor: Allison W.
As a lymphedema therapist, Allison learned what her patients were going through after she was diagnosed with head and neck cancer. Flexitouch helps her get back to doing what she loves to do.”