Use the Back button in your browser to see the other results of your search or to select another record.

Detailed Search Results

Wound drainage following radical mastectomy: the effect of restriction of shoulder movement
Flew TJ
The British Journal of Surgery 1979 May;66(5):302-305
clinical trial
6/10 [Eligibility criteria: Yes; Random allocation: Yes; Concealed allocation: Yes; Baseline comparability: Yes; Blind subjects: No; Blind therapists: No; Blind assessors: No; Adequate follow-up: Yes; Intention-to-treat analysis: No; Between-group comparisons: Yes; Point estimates and variability: Yes. Note: Eligibility criteria item does not contribute to total score] *This score has been confirmed*

A randomized prospective clinical trial has been performed to determine the effect of temporary immobilization of the shoulder on wound drainage following radical mastectomy. In 64 patients admitted to the trial the mean volume of drainage was reduced by 40% in those who had shoulder movement restricted for the first 7 days after operation when compared with the group in whom early arm exercises were encouraged. The mean drainage time was reduced by 29%. Shoulder immobilization did not result in increased shoulder stiffness, although there was an increased incidence of mild lymphoedema of the arm.

Full text (sometimes free) may be available at these link(s):      help