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Lymphedema is a collection of lymphatic fluid that can collect in the arm, chest wall or breast after treatment for breast cancer.  This may present as a mild swelling in one area of the body.  Your oncology physicians and care providers will work with you to decide if this swelling is lymphedema and if you should be seen at the lymphedema clinic.   Lymphedema can be treated, and there are many options as how to manage this.  Patients seen at the Lymphedema Clinic are evaluated by a physician and a physical therapist both trained specifically in the various methods to treat lymphedema.  Dr. Patti O'Brien, a breast cancer survivor, educates, evaluates and directs management of these patients.  The PTs that rotate through the clinic are all certified in lymphedema care through the Lymphedema Association of North America.  

More information on lymphedema can be found at the following sites:

www.lymphnet.org

http://www.komen.org