Latest news

Update on the Activities of the American Lymphedema Framework Project (ALFP):
The American Lymphedema Framework Project (ALFP) has made significant progress on a systematic review of the recent lymphedema literature and the development of the lymphedema MDS. In support of the preparation of the second edition of the Best Practice Document, the ALFP staff members, with the assistance of a trained research librarian, have done an extensive literature search on the evidence base for lymphedema best practices covering the past five years (2004-2009). After being reviewed for meeting the inclusion criteria, the included literature has been sorted into the following topics: Risk Reduction; Assessment; CDT; IPC and Other Devices; Exercise; Surgery; Other Treatments; Living well with Lymphedema; Palliative Care; Skin Care and Wounds; Complex Cases; and Health Policy and Economic Impact. ALFP editors have recruited expert reviewers/ topic authors to summarize and appraise the grouped evidence. A series of thirteen manuscripts will be produced through Spring 2011.

The development of the lymphedema MDS has moved forward significantly. Personnel have been hired and development of the cyber infrastructure has begun. Content of clinical tools are being mapped, and the ALFP is working with Dr. Nancy Hutchinson and her research, clinical, and technology team from Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute for future beta testing of the MDS. An update report will be made at the 2011 International Lymphoedema Framework Conference. The ultimate goal of the lymphedema MDS is to create an operational cyber infrastructure that collects, organizes, and disseminates up-to-date information to lymphedema stakeholders. Through the partnership with our many stakeholders, the ALFP continues to move forward these two projects.

Journal Focus

The Journal of Lymphoedema is the biannual journal for improving practice, raising awareness and setting standards for care in Lymphoedema. This edition is now available online to all subscribers to the Journal of Lymphoedema. If you are not a subscriber, register now.