Key Points ▪ Treatment of advanced lymphedema remains a challenge in reconstructive surgery. Surgical management with excisional procedures is indicated in select patients when conservative measures have failed. ▪ Based…
Key Points ▪ If there is significant pitting (> 8–10 mm in depth) of the lymphedematous limb, conservative treatment (combined physiotherapy) is indicated to remove the lymph and transfer the…
Key Points ▪ Cancer survivors who have had treatment affecting the lymph drainage system have a lifelong risk of developing lymphedema. ▪ Lymphedema management includes risk-reduction education and lymphedema treatment….
Key Points ▪ Following injury to the lymphatic system, development of lymphedema involves a predictable progression of disease represented by histological, architectural, and pressure gradient changes within the involved area….
Key Points ▪ Lymphangiogenesis occurs in four distinct regulatory phases: lymphatic competence, lymphatic commitment, lymphatic speciation and lymphatic maturation. ▪ Vascular endothelial growth factor-C/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 signaling is…
Key Points ▪ Lymphedema severity may require different treatment approaches. The indications for referral to conservative therapy are different from those for referral for surgery. ▪ Knowing the extent to…
Key Points ▪ Lymphedema occurs as a result of congenital abnormalities (primary lymphedema), injury or infection (secondary lymphedema) of the lymphatic system. ▪ Most common cause in developed countries is…
Key Points ▪ Lymphedema is caused by partial or total obstruction of lymphatic collectors. ▪ Lymphovenous shunts have their established position in therapy of lymphedema. ▪ Control of infection of…
Key Points ▪ The lymphatic system has multiple functions including body fluid homeostasis, immune cell trafficking, and transport of lipids. ▪ Anatomical lymph drainage occurs from superficial and deep conduits…
Key Points ▪ Current major surgical options for lymphedema treatment are liposuction, lymphatic grafting, lymphovenous shunt, and vascularized lymph node transfer. ▪ The surgical outcomes for primary lymphedema are not…
