The study used a variety of outcome measures. The method of measuring and calculating limb volume in this study has been shown to be reliable, particularly when used in a consistent manner by the same operator (Stanton et al. 2000). However, as already noted, many patients also present with oedema of the trunk, particularly in the area posterior to the axilla. To date, there has been little explo- ration of methods for assessing trunk swelling and, consequently, it was felt useful to incorporate the use of the modified Harpenden skinfold calipers and ultrasound scanner within this study.