Considering the target of comprehensive head and neck irradiation, it’s not surprising that post-treatment lymphedema is the rule rather than the exception. A practical prospective phase 3 trial randomized 236 patients with symptomatic lymphedema to a home advanced pneumatic compression device (APCD) versus standard therapist-guided lymphedema therapy followed by self-care over 6 months. Both groups experienced durable improvements in patient-reported symptoms, with nearly identical quality-of-life trajectories through 6 months. CT imaging also demonstrated continued improvement in internal soft tissue swelling over time in both groups. The sustained benefits achieved with both programs ultimately argue for early, rigorous intervention–namely before fibrosis takes hold–via whichever modality is most compatible with patient convenience. | Ridner, Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2026
