Guidelines for Management of Post Lymphedema Nonhealing Ulcer of Lower Limb

Abstract

Lymphedema represents a widespread medical concern, affecting a staggering 140.2 million individuals globally; however, its status as a vascular disease often remains underappreciated. In contrast to arterial and venous diseases, which have witnessed advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches with the formulation of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs), lymphedema faces a conspicuous dearth of such comprehensive guidance. Despite the significant global prevalence of lymphedema, the lack of wellestablished guidelines has impeded standardized and effective management strategies. Moreover, the efficacy of clinical practice guidelines hinges on their quality and development through meticulous evidence-based methodologies. Recognizing this critical aspect, ourstudy delves into a systematic review of the currently available CPGs for lymphedema. Our objective is to assess the comprehensiveness and methodological robustness of these guidelines, aiming to identify gaps and potential areas for enhancement in the clinical management of this condition. By scrutinizing existing CPGs, we aim to contribute valuable insights that can guide future developments in lymphedema care. This research initiative addresses the pressing need for standardized and evidence-based approaches in the diagnosis and treatment of lymphedema, aligning with the trajectory of advancements witnessed in other vascular diseases. Through our systematic evaluation, we aspire to catalyze improvements in the understanding and management of lymphedema, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of care for the vast number of individuals affected by this often-overlooked vascular condition.