The Lymphoedema Service is here to treat and support patients aged 18 years and over with Primary and Secondary lymphoedema.
The service is run jointly by St Luke’s Hospice, Cheshire Community Integrated Care Partnership and Macmillan Cancer Care.
We accept referrals via GPs, consultants, nurses and other health care professionals for patients with GPs in South Cheshire & Vale Royal.
The St Luke’s lymphoedema team is made up of three highly skilled nurses Carol Thayer, Kirsty Sewell-Threadgold and Dawn McManus, who have extensive experience within the community and Hospice and are specialists in lymphoedema management.
What is lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is a long-term condition which causes swelling in the body’s tissues. It can affect any part of the body, but usually develops in the arms and legs. It is caused by a failure of the lymphatic system which can be the result of an inherited genetic condition, cancer treatment, injury or infection.
How is it treated?
There is no cure for lymphoedema but it is possible to control the main symptoms using techniques to reduce fluid build-up and stimulate the flow of fluid through the lymphatic system. At our clinics we provide skin care advice which is very important because one of the biggest risks with lymphoedema is developing an infection called cellulitis. Exercise is also very important because without exercise and movement, lymphatic fluid will not move.
Where are the clinics held?
Once a referral is received by the team, the patient will be invited to the Hospice for their first appointment to have an initial assessment, in which a detailed history will be taken. An individualised lymphoedema management plan will be drawn up with the patient to increase supported self-management of their lymphoedema. Initially patients may be seen every few weeks until their lymphoedema is stabilised, treatments will vary from patient to patient dependent on their needs.
We have satellite clinics in Alsager, Crewe and Nantwich and following the first assessment patients will be seen as close to home as possible. Unfortunately we are unable to offer home visits due to the capacity of the service.
Referrals are accepted from GP’s, Consultants and other Health Care professionals, by completing our referral form and sending it to the appropriate Care Community Hub.
If you have concerns between appointments, please give us a ring and leave a message. However if this is of an urgent nature please contact your GP or Out of Hours Service, including 111.
St Luke’s Lymphoedema Service 01606 555682/01606 555683 Monday- Friday 8.30am – 5pm (excluding Bank Holidays).
