In 2012, 1.7 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer worldwide. Due to the evolution in diagnostic and treatment techniques, the survival rate is increasing. Consequently, complications related to the treatment of breast cancer have gained importance.

Lymphoedema is one of the most feared complications. It is caused by a reduced transport capacity of the lymph system (related to the surgery, radiotherapy, or both), sometimes combined with an increase in lymph load (e.g., related to infection).

Although the majority of patients seem to develop breast cancer-related lymphoedema before 12 to 24 months postoperatively, breast cancer survivors have a lifelong risk of developing lymphoedema. 20 to 33% of patients with breast cancer who develop arm lymphoedema will do so more than 12 months after surgery.

Therefore it is crucial to know the long-term effects of interventions designed to prevent lymphoedema.