Abstract
Lymphatic reconstruction offers additional treatment options for the condition of secondary lymphedema especially if resistant to conservative therapy. Current options for surgical approaches as lymphaticovenular anastomosis, lymph node transfer, and lympholymphatic grafts with lymphovenular anastomosis represent the most popular methods for lymphatic reconstruction. Short-term and long-term follow-up results indicate significant improvements regarding lymphedema and the patient's quality of life. Nevertheless, in most cases, additional conservative therapy is recommended and required. Vascularized lymph node transfer could show beneficial short-term results, but until now, studies evaluating long-term efficacy are lacking for the full acceptance of this method for reconstructive surgery. Similarly, the use of lymphatic grafts could not offer convincing results for the application as an alternative method for lymphatic reconstruction. Further improvement of the aforementioned surgical techniques and a consensus in standardized protocols and reporting of outcome is finally needed to enhance and consolidate lymphatic reconstruction in secondary lymphedema.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Lymphatic Structure and Function in Health and Disease
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
