Ann Phlebology.  2022 Dec;20(2):58-63. 10.37923/phle.2022.20.2.58.

A Comprehensive Overview on the Surgical Management of Lymphedema

• Chung JH
• Woo KJ

• KMID: 2549972
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.37923/phle.2022.20.2.58

Abstract

Lymphedema is a chronic progressive condition caused by insufficient lymphatic drainage and subsequent stasis of protein-rich interstitial fluid. When it occurs, the lymphatic fluid becomes stagnant, causing tissue fibrosis, hypertrophic fat, and lymphatic vessel destruction, ultimately leading to skin ulceration and infection. Lymphedema can be a debilitating disease in patients and has a dramatic negative effect on their quality of life. Invasive reductive procedures such as the Charles operation were previously performed, but this resulted in extensive scarring and substantial morbidity, including significant blood loss or infection. Therefore, in recent years, physiologic surgeries such as lymphaticovenular anastomosis and vascularized lymph node transfer have become increasingly popular. This article reviews recent trends in the surgical management of lymphedema from physiologic surgery to preventive lymphatic reconstruction.

Keyword

Lymphedema; Lymphatic disease; Microsurgery; Anastomosis; Free flap