Quick test cuts post-surgery swelling risk

The Bays Hospital on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula is now home to the region's first SOZO machine, which helps in the early monitoring and detection of cancer-related lymphoedema.

Lymphoedema – swelling in the body due to excess fluids – is a common side-effect following surgery for breast cancer and other cancers.

Giselle Ciavarella, who works at hospitals in the region as a McGrath Breast Care Nurse, said the SOZO system delivered a non-invasive 30-second test that detected fluid changes as small as 2.4 tablespoons.

"Secondary lymphoedema happens when we make an impact on our lymphatic system, either through surgery or radiotherapy, so we've changed the way the system normally works," Ms Ciavarella said.

"This machine gives us a baseline number for our patients, and then we can monitor if there's any changes – we can then refer them on to treatment straight away.

"It's not here to replace our beautiful physio team, but it's another tool for us to use.

"As breast cancer nurses, we look after our patients sometimes for years at a time, so to have this here to help our patients is truly amazing, we're so proud."

Funding for the SOZO machine came from individual breast cancer patients and local community groups, who raised $20,000 and donated it to the not-for-profit private hospital.

Local breast cancer survivor Julie Bennett was among those helped raise funds for the equipment.

"This machine is so important to give cancer patients a baseline reading before surgery for post-surgery lymphoedema risk," she said.

"In a time when you have so many appointments, doctors and stress, having this reading will make life easier down the track."

Recent research shows that early detection, combined with standard compression therapy, can reduce the progression of lymphoedema by 95 percent.

"To have it here onsite is so amazing for our patients," Ms Ciavarella said.

"Having that face-to-face contact with our patients, with this equipment, it's just beautiful to have. And it is best clinical practice as well – we're committed to having the most up-to-date options for our patients.

"The recognition of the need for this came from the patients themselves and from our wonderful supporters here. It's truly lovely to have that support."

By 2032 it is expected there will be almost 30,000 patient admissions on the Mornington Peninsula for cancer or haematological diagnosis, with 15,000 of these admitted in a private hospital.

Read more: Icon-Bays deal boosts care for cancer patients

Read more: The Bays Hospital's $1.2 million 'win for patients'

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