RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Update to the Canadian clinical practice guideline for best-practice management of breast cancer–related lymphedema: study protocol
JF CMAJ Open
JO CMAJ
FD Canadian Medical Association
SP E338
OP E347
DO 10.9778/cmajo.20210038
VO 10
IS 2
A1 Margaret Lynn McNeely
A1 Susan R. Harris
A1 Naomi D. Dolgoy
A1 Mona M. Al Onazi
A1 Joanna F. Parkinson
A1 Lori Radke
A1 Xanthoula Kostaras
A1 Liz Dennett
A1 Jean Ann Ryan
A1 Mary-Ann Dalzell
A1 Anna Kennedy
A1 Lauren Capozzi
A1 Anna Towers
A1 Kristin L. Campbell
A1 Jill Binkley
A1 Karen King
A1 David Keast
YR 2022
UL http://www.cmajopen.ca/content/10/2/E338.abstract
AB Background: One of the more frequent complications following treatment for breast cancer, lymphedema is a substantial swelling of the arm, breast and chest wall that occurs on the side where lymph nodes were removed. The aim of this work is to update recommendations on the prevention, diagnosis and management of lymphedema related to breast cancer.Methods: We present the protocol for an update of the 2001 clinical practice guideline on lymphedema from the Steering Committee for Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Care and Treatment of Breast Cancer. We will use a patient-oriented research approach with a focus on self-management and the positive health model to inform the updated guideline development. The methods proposed will be undertaken with consideration of the standards outlined in the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II) instrument. The literature will be appraised by evaluating existing guidelines from other countries, the evidence from systematic reviews and meta-analyses and direct evidence from clinical studies. We will manage competing interests according to Guidelines International Network principles. Recommendations will be presented using an actionable statement format and will be linked to the level of evidence along with any relevant considerations used in formulation. A draft of the guideline will be produced by the steering committee then sent out to international experts and stakeholder groups for feedback.Interpretation: The primary benefit of this clinical guideline will be to improve the quality of care of women with breast cancer–related lymphedema. Findings will be disseminated at national and international conferences and through webinars and educational videos hosted on the websites of the supporting organizations.