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The new service extends specialized care to residents of the Valdinievole region following the establishment of a similar clinic at the Valdibrana territorial facility in March 2026.
Targeting a Chronic Postoperative Condition
The lymphedema clinic at Pescia’s hospital operates through a collaboration between physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists and the technical-professional health department.
Dr. Martina Boni, director of the Pistoia-Pescia physical medicine and rehabilitation unit, notes that lymphedema is a chronic condition involving excessive lymphatic fluid buildup in tissues that requires specific training, early diagnosis, and comprehensive management.
The clinic coordinates directly with the Pistoia Breast Unit to manage postoperative care and prevent early or late rehabilitation complications.
Personalized Physiatrist and Physiotherapist Paths
Patients receive personalized rehabilitation paths overseen jointly by a physiatrist and a physiotherapist. The physiatrist conducts initial clinical evaluations, establishes individual rehabilitation projects, and prescribes necessary medical aids or braces.
Meanwhile, the physiotherapist administers decongestant treatments, including elastocompressive bandages, lymphatic drainage, and functional re-education.
Vascular Surgery Integration Across Asl Toscana Centro
As of January 2025, the network enhanced its diagnostic capabilities through a partnership with the vascular surgery department of Asl Toscana centro, integrating a vascular surgeon specialized in lymphology at the Valdibrana center to evaluate complex cases across Valdinievole.
Referral Requirements and Regional Network Value
Access to the lymphedema clinic requires a referral from a general practitioner or a medical specialist specifying a “multidisciplinary evaluation.”
The Pescia facility works in tandem with local senology, oncology, and vascular surgery departments, as well as complementary medicine services. Giuditta Niccolai, head of hospital administration for the district, states that the first five months of operation demonstrate the value of strengthening the regional rehabilitation network to provide accessible, high-quality specialized care.
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