Fluid Monitor Aids Clinical Assessment of Lymphedema

A novel monitoring system utilizes bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) to accurately measure tissue composition and fluid status.

The L-Dex U400 is designed to aid in the evaluation of unilateral lymphedema in arms by measuring certain characteristics of electrical resistance in the extracellular fluid present in a patient’s limb. The results are delivered on a numeric scale, providing an instant and accurate tool for clinical assessment of lymphedema progression, as well as a way to track changes in the patient over time. The technology, which is specific for extracellular fluid, is unaffected by changes in the patient’s weight due to changes in fat mass or muscle mass, and can detect lymphedema up to 10 months before there is evidence of limb swelling.

The device can store more than 1,000 data records, which can be analyzed directly on the device or downloaded via an Ethernet connection to proprietary unilateral lymphedema analysis software installed on a Windows PC. To perform a measurement, three color-coded leads and dual-tab electrodes are placed on the patient, with measurements carried out by following on-screen instructions. Results appear on-screen and can be uploaded for storage or additional analysis. The L-Dex U400 is a product of ImpediMed (Brisbane, Australia), and has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

“Fluid monitoring is a critical component in the continuum of care for cancer survivors. L-Dex is an accurate measurement tool, which can help improve health outcomes for patients through earlier identification of lymphedema,” said Richard Carreon, managing director and CEO of ImpediMed. “Our objective is to not only make L-Dex the standard of care in the clinical assessment of early stage lymphedema, but to explore its potential in other areas where a simple, sophisticated platform could accurately measure and monitor fluid levels, leading to better patient outcomes.”

Lymphedema is an accumulation of fluid in tissues that is commonly caused by abnormalities in the lymphatic system or due to removal or damage to a person's lymph nodes. Symptoms include swelling, recurrent cellulitis, loss of physical function, psychological stress, and a diminished qualify of life. It cannot be cured, and is typically managed through combined therapies of manual lymph drainage, multilayer bandaging, decongestive exercise, skin care, and long-term self-management.

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