Perm School of Lymphologysts: theory, experiment and clinic

Abstract

The paper narrates the early research on the lymphatic system in the city of Perm (Russia) in 1951 and the systematic study of lymph nodes during the period from 1954 to 1963 under the guidance of Professor Ivan Ivanovich Kositsyn. The second period of experimental lymphology development in Perm is associated with the name of Professor Elizaveta Nikolaevna Oleneva. Her research on the lymphatic vessels of various organs when creating typological models of experimental venous congestion and lymphostasis became the basis for understanding pathological processes in organ interstices. The development of clinical lymphology owes much to Professor Nadezhda Alexandrovna Garyaeva. Close scientific cooperation between the Perm and St. Petersburg lymphological schools led to the development of structural foundations of modern lymphodynamics theory. The discovery of the lymphatic valve tensor muscle determined the role of valves in lymph flow in a historical discussion question. Reconstructive-restorative operations on the thoracic duct for surgical lymphology are significant for the prevention of lymphostasis and thrombosis. The study of mass transfer laws of medicinal substances through the interstitium provided a scientific rationale for lymphotropic therapy at a new level. The terms “intersticiology,” “somatic lymphedema,” and “visceral lymphedema” have been introduced into scientific circulation. Analysis of fundamental lymphostasis research allowed for the development of drug treatment methods for post-radiation fibrosis and lymphedema. The Department of Human Anatomy with a course in clinical lymphology under the leadership of Professor N.A. Garyaeva, developing treatment technologies in gynecology, phthisiopulmonology, surgery, traumatology, pediatrics, and therapy, became the scientific-methodological center in the city of Perm for building knowledge in the field of lymphology. The Lymphatech Clinic, opened in 2007, gave a new impetus to the development of clinical lymphology. The Lymphatech method, providing targeted pharmacological correction of the structures and functions of the lymphatic system, has stood the test of time and proved itself as an essential pathogenetic therapy for many pathologies. Scientific and clinical results are reported and published at international conferences, including the leading journal Lymphology.