The Lymphoedema Service provides specialist assessment, treatment and support for adults aged 18 years and over with primary and secondary lymphoedema, including cancer‑related and non‑cancer‑related conditions.
The service is run jointly by St Luke’s Hospice, Cheshire Community Integrated Care Partnership and Macmillan Cancer Care.
Patients are assessed either by telephone or in clinic. An individualised self‑management care plan is developed with each patient, with an emphasis on education and self‑care.
At their first appointment, patients are assessed either by telephone or in clinic. Following assessment, an individualised self‑management care plan is developed and where appropriate, patients will be supported towards discharge, with or without compression garments and once their lymphoedema has reduced and is stable.
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?
Outpatient clinics are held at:
- Alsager Community Services – Alsager Medical Centre
- Ashfields
- Church View Primary Care Centre
- Eagle Bridge Health and Wellbeing Centre
- St Luke’s Hospice
- Weaverham Clinic
Home visits for palliative patients unable to attend clinic and are assessed on an individual basis, however as we are a small team we are unable to provide regular home visits.
Referrals are accepted from all healthcare professionals for patients registered with a GP with a CW postcode.
Our area covers South Cheshire, Vale Royal and parts of West Cheshire and must meet the Lymphoedema Service referral criteria.
Referrals should normally be made using the CCICP EMIS Managed Referral Form, which is the standard referral route for CCICP services, including Lymphoedema. This ensures referrals are processed via the appropriate Care Community Hub.
