Experimental Study of the Prevention and Treatment of Lymphoedema in a Rat Hindlimb Model by Applying Cardioperitoneal Catheters and Lacrimal Intubation Tubes in the Inguinoperitoneal Region

Abstract

Secondary lymphoedema (LE) is a chronic condition with limited surgical treatment options for restoring extremity form and function. This study aims to establish a reproducible model of secondary LE and evaluate the preventive and corrective effects of fenestrated catheters (FC) and capillary tubes (CT). A total of 35 rats underwent left hindlimb inguinal and popliteal node dissection, followed by radiotherapy after two weeks. The right hindlimb served as the control. Rats were divided into five groups: sham, two preventive (Group 2 - EFC, Group 3 - ECT), and two corrective (Group 4 - LFC, Group 5 - LCT). Measurements of ankle circumference (AC) and paw thickness (PT) were taken weekly, and imaging modalities were performed. After a 16 week follow up, rats were euthanised for histological examination. Data include paw thickness (PT) and ankle circumference (AC) ratios for hindlimbs. In the sham group, AC ratio was 1.08 (p = .002) and PT ratio was 1.11 (p = .020), confirming successful lymphoedema model establishment. Early catheter and tube placement in Groups 2 and 3 prevented AC and PT increase until the 16th week. Group 2: AC ratio was 0.98 (p = .93), PT ratio was 0.98 (p = .61). Group 3: AC ratio was 0.98 (p = .94) and PT ratio was 0.99 (p = .11). From the 10th to the 16th week, Groups 4 and 5 exhibited reduced measurements after insertion of catheters and tubes. Computed tomography imaging as an objective examination supported the results obtained from the measurements. The histological findings confirmed the benefits of both FC and CT. The insights gained from the present study provide a basis for further exploration and refinement of drainage system designs, ultimately leading to improved treatment approaches for individuals suffering from lymphoedema in the future.