The most commonly used primary outcome measure in chronic oedema or lymphoedema trials or studies is changes in limb volume. There are many different methods used and a lack of standardisation. Some studies, particularly in breast cancer, adopt other methods including symptom rating and mixed methods. The diversity of approaches means that it is almost impossible to compare studies. This issue is particularly difficult for reimbursement and healthcare agencies for which limb volume change currently has little or no meaning.

The overall goal for the ILF-COM endeavour is to agree and validate international measures to be used by the lymphoedema community in both clinical practice and research. This should assist in providing robust guidance for reimbursement agencies.

A qualitative study to explore the challenges faced by the medical device industry in the development of compression and reimbursement were conducted. Twelve countries agreed to be part of the ILF-COM project and all first interviews with each country are now completed. Furthermore, eight companies who produce compression therapy and have expertise in reimbursement took part in 11 individual semi-structured interviews. Data was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Results are presented in a special supplement to the Journal of Wound Care published in November 2021.