<p>The focus of this debate is the prevention of the development of overt, clinical lymphoedema in those at risk. Much of the literature has concentrated on reducing the risk of lymphoedema development after treatment for breast cancer. Some of this has related to refinements in surgical and radiotherapy techniques, such as sentinel node biopsy (Sener et al, 2001), which try to minimise damage to the lymphatic system. Other papers have described recommendations to reduce the likelihood of swelling after treatment. These are intended to prevent further damage to the lymphatic system, reduce the risk of infection and improve lymphatic drainage. The advice is mainly based on common sense with little research evidence to support it (Clark et al, 2005; Lymphoedema Framework, 2006). Following these recommendations may significantly alter the patient’s way of life and, therefore, it is important to identify which measures are the most effective, so that informed decisions can be made.</p>
