Scale-independent stiffness measurement of upper limbs with lymphedema by a circular compression

Lymphedema caused by the dissection of lymphatic node for treating a breast cancer produces serious swelling on the limbs and reduces the quality of life of the patient. For quantitative assessing the disease, this study newly proposed the stiffness measurement method of upper limb with lymphedema. A measurement system, where a roll-up belt was installed to circularly compress the limb by pulling the belt was developed. Both the belt tension and displacement were measured during the compresson of limb. Scale-independent stiffness index was newly derived from the bulk modulus and applied the measured force and displacement. The stiffness index of upper limb with lymphedema was measured. The index of affected limb was larger than that of healthy limb in a patient.