Vascularized Lymph Node Research Articles

Long-term Results of Lymphedema Treatment with combined Lymph Node Transfer and Collagen Scaffolds: An observational study

Aim: Vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) accelerates growth factor secretion, lymphatic endothelial-cell migration towards the interstitial flow and lymphagiogenesis in a multidirectional pattern. Our observational study aims to examine the hypothesis that nanofibrillar collagen scaffolds (NCS) combined with VLNT can provide guided lymphagiogenesis creating long-lasting lymphatic pathways.Methods: Twenty-four patients (21 female, 3 male) who had undergone a lymphatic microsurgery for upper (n=11) or lower (n=13) limb secondary lymphedema and completed at least 18months follow up were selected and equally divided in two groups; Group-A underwent a VLNT, Group-B a combined VLNT and NCS procedure. Lymph-node flap sizes, harvesting procedure and implantation location were resembling in both groups. Demographics, lymphedema etiology and staging, limb volumetry, and somatometric data were recorded. Pre- and postoperative data for limb-volume difference, infection episodes/year, and indocyanine-green (ICG) lymphography changes were documented in all patients.Results: Mean follow-up was 42 months24-60 in Group-A, and 27 months18-48 in Group-B patients. Demographic data, lymphedema etiology, and staging were comparable in both groups. Pre- and postoperative edema volume difference for Group-A was 36% and 25% (p<0.001), while in Group-B 33% and 14% (p=0.001) respectively. The mean number of infection episodes decreased in Group-A and B from 1.75 to 0.33 and from 2.17 to 0.42 per patient/year, respectively. ICG mean stage in Group-A was 3.58 pre- and 3 postoperatively (p=0.045), and 3.67 pre- and 2.08 postoperatively in Group-B (p=0.506). A statistically significant difference was found in postoperative volume difference between the two groups (p=0.008) as well as the postoperative ICG changes (p<0.001). ICG-lymphography demonstrated new lymphatic vessel formation at the location of NCS implantation.Conclusions: Long-term follow-up of the patients treated with a combined VLNT-NCS approach revealed a statistically significant improvement regarding volume reduction, infection episodes per year, ICG downstaging and new lymphatic vessel formation, compared to VLNT alone.

Staging Approaches to Lymphatic Surgery: Techniques and Considerations.

Lymphatic surgery has demonstrated promising outcomes for the treatment of lymphedema alongside nonsurgical techniques. Physiologic lymphatic surgeries including lymphovenous bypass and vascularized lymph node transplants address the fluid burden in lymphedema whereas reductive surgeries including suction lipectomy and excisional techniques address the fibroadipose component of the disease. Lymphedema patients often present with both fluid and fat components that may require different procedures for optimal results. In addition, the chronic, progressive nature of lymphedema can warrant the need for multiple procedures to address different anatomic areas as well as further improve outcomes. This paper reviews the current literature on staging different or repeated lymphatic procedures and proposes an algorithm to navigate physiologic and reductive lymphatic surgery when multiple procedures are needed to optimize surgical outcomes.

Clinical Utility of Bioimpedance Analysis for Upper Limb Lymphedema with Surgical Treatment.

Background: In lymphedema, the accumulation of subcutaneous interstitial fluid is the most characteristic feature. Bioimpedance analysis (BIA) is a promising technique to measure the amount of body components using a noninvasive method. In this study, we determined the clinical significance of BIA parameters in upper limb lymphedema with surgical treatment such as lymphovenous anastomosis or vascularized lymph node transfer. Methods and Results: A single-center retrospective study using a multifrequency BIA. Perioperative BIA parameters such as extracellular water ratio or fat-free mass (FFM) ratio and limb volume defined as percentage of excess volume (PEV) were measured. The relationships between the magnitude of change in PEV and BIA parameters during surgery were evaluated. Out of 48 unilateral lymphedema patients, 46 were female and the average age was 55.4 years. PEV and all BIA parameters showed a significant decrease after surgery (p < 0.001). There were significant correlations between ΔPEV and the degree of changes in all BIA parameters. ΔFFM ratio showed the highest correlation with the amount of change in PEV (r = 0.599, p < 0.001). Conclusion: BIA parameters correlated well with the volume change after surgery. BIA could be useful as a quick and easy tool for follow-up after lymphedema surgery.

Evolving Role of Lymphedema Surgery on Breast Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Multi-Institutional Algorithmic Approach.

Background/Objectives: Recent advancements in breast cancer treatment have led to increased survival rates, prompting a shift towards addressing breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). Despite the evolving role of lymphatic surgery in breast reconstruction, there is limited literature evaluating the current role of lymphatic surgery in breast reconstruction. This review aims to evaluate the state of lymphatic surgery in breast reconstruction, analyzing surgical techniques and proposing a multi-institutional algorithmic approach. Methods: Through a search and screening of literature, data regarding the study type, type of operation (bypass, pLVB/ILR/LYMPHA, VLNT, or a combination of treatments), and clinical outcomes were collected. Results: The systematic review included 184 studies. Overall, the number of publications on lymphatic surgery increased from 4.4 per year (2010-2016) to 21.1 per year since 2017. The most published procedure was vascularized lymph node transfer (34.6%), followed by preventive lymphatic surgery (31.4%), therapeutic lymphovenous bypass (23.3%), and combined breast and lymphatic reconstruction (10.7%). While VLNT was the most published procedure, preventive surgery has been the most published topic since 2020, with 11.7 articles per year since. Similarly, there has been an increase in studies on combined lymphatic surgery and breast reconstruction in the last five years, with 16 articles published. Conclusions: The role of lymphatic surgery in breast cancer patients is evolving, with an increasing emphasis on preventive procedures and combined reconstructive approaches. However, our study shows that the current literature is predominantly based on lower-level evidence, highlighting the need for more randomized controlled trials to establish stronger clinical recommendations.

The Current State of Lymphedema Surgery

Lymphedema surgeries have been proven effective in treating lymphedema and are not considered experimental or unproven. The medical literature consistently supports the safe and successful use of physiologic drainage lymphedema surgeries such as lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA), vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT), and reductive surgeries such as suction-assisted protein lipectomy (SAPL) when performed by an experienced lymphedema surgery team to treat properly selected patients. Proper integration of lymphedema therapy is critical to achieving successful outcomes. We review effective lymphedema surgeries, their indications, patient selection, and the proper application of surgical treatments to achieve optimal results.

Improved lymphangiogenesis around vascularized lymph node flaps by periodic injection of hyaluronidase in a rodent model

Vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) is an advanced surgical approach for secondary lymphedema (SLE) treatment, but tissue fibrosis around the lymph node flap (VLNF) inhibiting lymphangiogenesis is the biggest challenge undermining its therapeutic efficacy. This study explored the effects of periodic hyaluronidase (HLD) injection in reducing fibrosis and promoting lymphangiogenesis in 52 Sprague–Dawley rats with a VLNF over 13 weeks. The results demonstrated that HLD administration significantly enhanced swelling reduction, lymphatic drainage efficiency, and lymphatic vessel regeneration, with up to a 26% decrease in tissue fibrosis around the VLNF. These findings suggest that combining VLNT with periodic injections of HLD could substantially improve SLE treatment outcomes in clinical settings. It offers a promising direction for future therapeutic strategies and drug development aimed at increasing the efficacy of surgical treatment for SLE patients.

Multiscale computational analysis of the steady fluid flow through a lymph node

Lymph Nodes (LNs) are crucial to the immune and lymphatic systems, filtering harmful substances and regulating lymph transport. LNs consist of a lymphoid compartment (LC) that forms a porous bulk region, and a subcapsular sinus (SCS), which is a free-fluid region. Mathematical and mechanical challenges arise in understanding lymph flow dynamics. The highly vascularized lymph node connects the lymphatic and blood systems, emphasizing its essential role in maintaining the fluid balance in the body. In this work, we describe a mathematical model in a steady setting to describe the lymph transport in a lymph node. We couple the fluid flow in the SCS governed by an incompressible Stokes equation with the fluid flow in LC, described by a model obtained by means of asymptotic homogenisation technique, taking into account the multiscale nature of the node and the fluid exchange with the blood vessels inside it. We solve this model using numerical simulations and we analyze the lymph transport inside the node to elucidate its regulatory mechanisms and significance. Our results highlight the crucial role of the microstructure of the lymph node in regularising its fluid balance. These results can pave the way to a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the lymph node’s multiscale functionalities which can be significantly affected by specific physiological and pathological conditions, such as those characterising malignant tissues.

Advances in Microsurgical Treatment Options to Optimize Autologous Free Flap Breast Reconstruction

Introduction: Reconstructive plastic surgeons have made great strides in the field of breast reconstruction to achieve the best results for patients undergoing treatment for breast cancer. As microsurgical techniques have evolved, these patients can benefit from additional treatment modalities to optimize the results of the reconstruction. Free tissue transfer from alternative donor sites for breast reconstruction is routinely performed, which was not possible in the past. Neurotization is now possible to address the numbness and lack of sensation to the reconstructed breast. For those patients who develop lymphedema of the upper extremity as a result of their breast cancer care, supermicrosurgical options are now available to treat and even to prevent the development of lymphedema. This study presents a narrative review regarding the latest microsurgical advancements in autologous free flap breast reconstruction. Methods: A literature review was performed on PubMed with the key words “autologous free flap breast reconstruction”, “deep inferior epigastric perforator flap”, “transverse upper gracilis flap”, “profunda artery perforator flap”, “superior gluteal artery perforator flap”, “inferior gluteal artery perforator flap”, “lumbar artery perforator flap”, “breast neurotization”, “lymphovenous bypass and anastomosis”, and “vascularized lymph node transfer”. Articles that specifically focused on free flap breast reconstruction, breast neurotization, and lymphedema surgery in the setting of breast cancer were evaluated and included in this literature review. Results: The literature search yielded a total of 4948 articles which were screened. After the initial screening, 413 articles were reviewed to assess the relevance and applicability to the current study. Conclusions: Breast reconstruction has evolved tremendously in recent years to provide the most natural and cosmetically pleasing results for those patients undergoing treatment for breast cancer. As technology and surgical techniques have progressed, breast cancer patients now have many more options, particularly if they are interested in autologous reconstruction. These advancements also provide the possibility of restoring sensibility to the reconstructed breast as well as treating the sequela of lymphedema due to their cancer treatment.

Phase II study shows potential benefit of adenoviral vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF-C) and lymph node transfer in lymphedema.

Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is a common complication lacking medical treatment. Lymfactin® is an adenovirus type 5-based gene therapy and prolymphangiogenic growth factor vector that induces vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF-C) expression. Our aim was to evaluate the therapeutic effect of Lymfactin® with vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT). This Phase II, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized multicenter study evaluated the efficacy and safety of Lymfactin® in combination with VLNT. The primary endpoints were edema volume, quality of life (LyQoLI), and lymphoscintigraphy. All adverse events were recorded. A mixed model of repeated measures analysis of covariance was performed. This study was a continuation of a previous Phase I Lymfactin® study. Thirty-nine patients with BCRL were recruited between June 2018 and December 2019 and randomized to receive either Lymfactin® (n = 20) or placebo (n = 19). The primary endpoints showed a positive effect of VLNT in both groups compared to the baseline, but without statistical differences between groups at 12 months. Additionally, greater improvements were observed in the tissue dielectric constant ratios measuring skin interstitial fluid levels in the Lymfactin® group compared to the placebo group (p = 0.020). No differences in adverse events were detected between the groups. This study was one of the few studies to objectively show a positive effect of VLNT in a prospective clinical multicenter setting. It was also the first-ever randomized prospective clinical study showing a quantitatively positive effect of a medical therapy on the edema of lymphedema although failing to show differences between groups in primary outcome measures.

Scar Decompression in Managing Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema: Is it Needed?

Mastectomy, axillary lymph node dissection, and irradiation for breast cancer commonly result in perivascular and axillary scarring. This scarring is thought to cause functional venous stenosis that leads to downstream venous hypertension in the affected extremity. Standard surgical practice is to decompress perivascular scarring at the time of physiologic lymphedema surgery in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). However, it is unknown whether this scar release influences surgical outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of functional venous stenosis in patients with BCRL and determine whether scar decompression is a necessary step in physiologic lymphedema surgery. The authors conducted a retrospective review of 64 patients with unilateral BCRL that presented to our lymphedema center between January 2020 and October 2022. Radiologist reports of venous duplex ultrasound for the bilateral upper extremities identified any disturbances in venous flow or indications of venous stenosis. Of the 64 patients with BCRL, 78% (n = 50) had prior axillary lymph node dissection. Forty-seven (73%) patients completed ultrasound imaging, of which, one patient (2%) had venous stenosis in the affected lymphedematous extremity identified on duplex ultrasound that may have suggested functional scarring. Vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) without scar decompression was performed in six patients (9%). Average preoperative Lymphedema Life Impact Scale and Lymphedema Index scores were 35 and 19 units, with a mean decrease of 23 (67%) and 6 (30%) units postoperatively. Most patients with BCRL did not have identifiable functional venous stenosis on duplex ultrasound, apart from one patient with suspected postthrombotic changes. All six patients that received VLNT without scar decompression had a successful outcome with decreased measures of lymphedema postoperatively. Scar decompression may therefore be unnecessary in physiologic lymphedema surgery, reducing operative times and avoiding risk of injury to neurovascular structures of the axilla.

Changes on noncontrast magnetic resonance imaging following lymphatic surgery for upper extremity secondary lymphedema

ObjectiveTo assess changes in noncontrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based biomarkers after upper extremity lymphedema surgery. MethodsWe retrospectively identified secondary upper extremity lymphedema patients who underwent vascularized lymph node transplant (VLNT), debulking lipectomy, or VLNT with a prior debulking (performed separately). All patients with both preoperative and postoperative MRIs were compared. An MRI-based edema scoring system was used: 0 (no edema), 1 (<50% fluid from myofascial to dermis), and 2 (≥50% fluid from myofascial to dermis). Edema scores and subcutaneous thickness (ST) were obtained along four quadrants across the upper and lower third of the arm and forearm each—for a total of 16 anatomical locations—and compared before and after surgery. Net changes in edema scores and ST were then correlated with Lymphoedema Quality-of-Life Questionnaire scores, L-Dex (bioimpedance), and limb volume difference by perometry. ResultsPatients who underwent lymphatic surgeries between January 2017 and December 2022 and successfully completed preoperative and postoperative MRI were included, resulting in a total of 33 unilateral secondary upper extremity lymphedema patients m(mean age, 63 ± 14 years; 32 female). The median postoperative follow-up times were 12.5 months (range, 6-19 months) for VLNT, 13.5 months (range, 12-40 months) for debulking, and 12.0 months (range, 12-24 months) for patients who underwent VLNT after debulking surgery. There was a decrease in mean ST in 15 of 16 anatomical segments of the upper extremity after debulking (P < .001), and the edema score increased in 7 of 16 segments (P ≤ .001-.020). Edema stage did not change in patients who underwent VLNT only or VLNT after debulking. ST decreased only along the radial forearm in patients who underwent VLNT after debulking despite an improvement in the Lymphoedema Quality-of-Life Questionnaire score in the former group. There was correlation between a decrease in ST with a decrease in volume within the debulking group (r = 0.79; P < .001). A decrease in ST also correlated with improved lymphedema quality of life questionnaires in the debulking group (r = 0.49; P = .04). ConclusionsA decrease in ST was demonstrated in most anatomical segments after liposuction debulking, whereas edema stage was increased. Fewer changes were seen with VLNT, possibly a reflection of more gradual changes within this short follow-up period, with the radial forearm potentially revealing the earliest response.

Research progress of breast reconstruction in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer-related lymphedema

Advances in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer have significantly improved survival rates. Breast cancer-related lymphedema is the most common mid-and long-term complication after breast cancer surgery, which seriously affects the quality of life. Breast reconstruction can not only restore the shape of the breasts after mastectomy, but also reduce the occurrence of lymphedema to some extent. Immediate autologous breast reconstruction combined with lymphatic venous anastomosis (LVA) or vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) can effectively prevent lymphedema. Delayed breast reconstruction combined with LVA or VLNT can achieve the dual benefits of restoring the appearance and treating lymphedema at the same time. The autologous tissue flap can function as a bridge to promote lymphatic drainage, thus enhancing the treatment of lymphedema. The advances mentioned above in surgical techniques have provided a basis for decision making in breast reconstruction and the prevention and treatment of breast cancer-related lymphedema, and have also brought hope for improving the quality of life of patients.

Molecular pathophysiology of secondary lymphedema.

Lymphedema occurs as a result of lymphatic vessel damage or obstruction, leading to the lymphatic fluid stasis, which triggers inflammation, tissue fibrosis, and adipose tissue deposition with adipocyte hypertrophy. The treatment of lymphedema is divided into conservative and surgical approaches. Among surgical treatments, methods like lymphaticovenular anastomosis and vascularized lymph node transfer are gaining attention as they focus on restoring lymphatic flow, constituting a physiologic treatment approach. Lymphatic endothelial cells form the structure of lymphatic vessels. These cells possess button-like junctions that facilitate the influx of fluid and leukocytes. Approximately 10% of interstitial fluid is connected to venous return through lymphatic capillaries. Damage to lymphatic vessels leads to lymphatic fluid stasis, resulting in the clinical condition of lymphedema through three mechanisms: Inflammation involving CD4+ T cells as the principal contributing factor, along with the effects of immune cells on the VEGF-C/VEGFR axis, consequently resulting in abnormal lymphangiogenesis; adipocyte hypertrophy and adipose tissue deposition regulated by the interaction of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ; and tissue fibrosis initiated by the overactivity of Th2 cells, leading to the secretion of profibrotic cytokines such as IL-4, IL-13, and the growth factor TGF-β1. Surgical treatments aimed at reconstructing the lymphatic system help facilitate lymphatic fluid drainage, but their effectiveness in treating already damaged lymphatic vessels is limited. Therefore, reviewing the pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms of lymphedema is crucial to complement surgical treatments and explore novel therapeutic approaches.

Multiscale homogenization for dual porosity time-dependent Darcy-Brinkman/Darcy coupling and its application to the lymphnode.

We study the coupling between time-dependent Darcy-Brinkman and the Darcy equations at the microscale subjected to inhomogeneous body forces and initial conditions to describe a double porosity problem. We derive the homogenized governing equations for this problem using the asymptotic homogenization technique, and as macroscopic results, we obtain a coupling between two Darcy equations, one of which with memory effects, with mass exchange between phases. The memory effects are a consequence of considering the time dependence in the Darcy-Brinkman equation, and they allow us to study in more detail the role of time in the problem under consideration. After the formulation of the model, we solve it in a simplified setting and we use it to describe the movement of fluid within a vascularized lymph node.

Comparing Different Donor Sites After Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer to the Lymphedematous Upper Limb: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Clinical Outcomes.

Vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) involves the microvascular transplantation of functional lymph nodes from a donor site into a limb affected by lymphedema to restore the normal flow of lymphatic fluid. Despite the increasing clinical experience with VLNT, there remains insufficient data to support its routine use in clinical practice. Here, we aim to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of VLNTs for upper limb lymphedema and compare clinical outcomes when using different donor sites. We carried out a systematic search of the literature through PubMed and Scopus databases for studies on VLNT for upper limb lymphedema. Primary and secondary outcomes included circumference reduction rate (CRR) and infection reduction rate by postoperative cellulitis episodes for the efficacy and safety of VLNT. Pooled analysis was performed using the inverse variance weighting meta-analysis of single means using the meta package in R software. Subgroup analyses were performed for donor and recipient sites, age groups, follow-ups, and symptom durations. Quality assessment was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for nonrandomized studies. A total of 1089 studies were retrieved from the literature, and 15 studies with 448 upper limb lymphedema patients who underwent VLNT were included after eligibility assessment. The mean CRR was 34.6 (18.8) and the mean postoperative cellulitis episodes per year was 0.71 (0.7). The pooled analysis of CRR was 28.4% (95% confidence interval, 19.7-41.1) and postoperative cellulitis episodes showed a mean of 0.59 (95% confidence interval, 0.36-0.95) using the random-effect model. Subgroup analyses showed significant group differences in recipient site for CRR and postoperative cellulitis episodes with the wrist comprising the highest weights, and patients younger than 50 years showing a lower postoperative infection. Vascularized lymph node transfer using gastroepiploic flaps at the wrists has shown a significant difference in reductions of limb circumference and cellulitis episodes in upper limb lymphedema patients when compared with other donor sites. However, further prospective studies are needed to consolidate this finding.

Analysis of different outcome parameters and quality of life after different techniques of free vascularized lymph node transfer

ObjectiveVascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) has become an important surgical technique in the treatment of lymphedema. Considering the different available regions available for flap harvest, we aimed to analyze different donor sites for VLNT with respect to donor site morbidity, impact on limb volume, and patient-reported outcome measurements (PROMs). MethodsA single-center prospective study of all patients undergoing VLNT at the Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery of the University Hospital Zurich between September 2016 and 2023 was conducted. Lymph nodes were harvested either from the omentum (gastroepiploic [GE]-VLNT), the lateral thoracic wall (LTW), or the superficial inguinal region (SI-VLNT). Volume measurements and PROMs were assessed preoperatively and at different postoperative intervals. ResultsOverall, 70 patients with upper limb lymphedema (21%) or lower limb lymphedema (79%) with different lymphedema stages were included. There were 49 patients who underwent GE-VLNT, followed by LTW-VLNT (n = 16) and SI-VLNT (n = 5). Lymph node harvest from the SI was associated with a significantly higher frequency of seroma development. The average percentage volume loss related in comparison to the preoperative volume of the affected limb was 9% after GE-VLNT, 10% after LTW-VLNT, and 5% after SI-VLNT without a significant difference between the groups. PROMs revealed significant improvements for physical functioning, symptoms and psychological well-being, with no differences between the VLNT techniques. ConclusionsVLNT leads to a significant improvement of quality of life and can decrease limb volume effectively, regardless of the selection of donor site. GE-VLNT has become our flap of choice owing to its low donor site morbidity and its properties that allow a double transplantation while avoiding a second donor site.

We Are Not Speaking the Same Language: Current Procedural Terminology Coding and Provision of Care in Lymphatic Reconstruction.

Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes provide a uniform language for medical billing, but specific codes have not been assigned for lymphatic reconstruction techniques. The authors hypothesized that inadequate codes would contribute to heterogeneous coding practices and reimbursement challenges, ultimately limiting surgeons' ability to treat patients. A 22-item virtual questionnaire was offered to 959 members of the American Society of Reconstructive Microsurgeons to assess the volume of lymphatic reconstruction procedures performed, CPT codes used for each procedure, and challenges related to coding and providing care. The survey was completed by 66 board-certified/board-eligible plastic surgeons (6.9%), who unanimously agreed that lymphatic surgery is integral to cancer care, with 86.4% indicating that immediate lymphatic reconstruction should be offered after lymphadenectomy. Most performed lymphovenous bypass, immediate lymphatic reconstruction, liposuction, and vascularized lymph node transfer.Respondents reported that available CPT codes failed to reflect procedural scope. A wide variety of CPT codes was used to report each type of procedure. Insurance coverage problems led to 69.7% of respondents forgoing operations and 32% reducing treatment offerings. Insurance coverage and CPT codes were identified as significant barriers to care by 98.5% and 95.5% of respondents, respectively. Respondents unanimously agreed on the importance of lymphatic reconstruction in cancer care, and most identified inadequate CPT codes as causing billing issues, which hindered their ability to offer surgical treatment. Appropriate and specific CPT codes are necessary to ensure accuracy and consistency of reporting and ultimately to improve patient access to care.

Synchronous supraclavicular vascularized lymph node transfer and liposuction for gynecological cancer-related lower extremity lymphedema: A clinical comparative analysis of three different procedures

ObjectiveGynecological cancer-related lower extremity lymphedema (GC-LEL), a chronic, progressive condition, lacks a standardized treatment. Currently, supraclavicular vascularized lymph node transfer (SC-VLNT) is a favored approach in the treatment of lymphedema, and there is a trend toward combination technology. This study conducts a comparative analysis of three techniques for treating GC-LEL with simultaneous SC-VLNT and liposuction. MethodsA cohort of 35 patients with GC-LEL was examined, comprising 13 patients who underwent single lymph nodes flap with a skin paddle (SLNF+P), 12 who received single lymph nodes flap without a skin paddle (SLNF), and 10 who accepted dual lymph nodes flap without a skin paddle (DLNF). Patient demographics and outcomes were meticulously documented, covering intra- and postoperative variables. ResultsThe median limb volume reduction were 56.4% (SLNF+P), 60.8% (SLNF), and 50.5% (DLNF) in stage II, and 54.0% (SLNF+P), 59.8% (SLNF), and 54.4% (DLNF) in stage III. DLNF group procedures entailed longer flap harvesting and transplantation times. The SLNF+P group, on average, had an 8-day postoperative hospitalization, longer than others. All patients noted subjective improvements in Lymphedema Quality of Life scores, with lymphoscintigraphy revealing enhanced lymphatic flow in 29 of the 35 cases. A notable decrease in cellulitis incidence was observed. Additionally, the occurrence of cellulitis decreased significantly, except for DLNF (Stage Ⅱ). The median follow-up time was 16 months (range, 12-36 months), with no reported severe postoperative complications. ConclusionsFor advanced GC-LEL, SLNF combined with liposuction is a preferred treatment, offering fewer complications, shorter operative time, and hospitalization.

Surgical Treatment of Breast Lymphedema: A Distinct Pathology With Unique Challenges.

Supermicrosurgical advances such as lymphovenous bypass (LVB) have enabled effective physiologic treatment of lymphedema affecting the extremities. Reports of surgical treatment for breast lymphedema (BL) are sparse, consisting of case reports and almost exclusively LVB. We report our experience with BL, including a case of mastectomy and breast reconstruction with abdominal free flap and inguinal vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) for BL. We compare our series with the surgical literature to discern unique characteristics and treatment limitations inherent to this disease. A database was prospectively maintained from September 2020 to May 2023 including all patients diagnosed with BL who were referred to our institution. Breast lymphedema was diagnosed using clinical criteria, and relevant patient data were recorded. Patients interested in surgical management underwent indocyanine green lymphography to determine candidacy for LVB or other interventions. All patients, including those surgically managed, were treated with complex decongestive therapy. Nine patients with BL were included. Eight had undergone breast-conserving therapy for breast cancer with whole breast irradiation. One patient was treated for Hodgkin lymphoma with axillary lymphadenectomy and axillary radiation. Indocyanine green lymphography was performed in 6 patients, of which 4 patients had diffuse dermal backflow. Two patients had lymphatic targets suitable for LVB, including the patient without breast irradiation. Three patients were managed surgically. One patient without bypass targets underwent breast reduction with partial symptomatic relief, later followed by a mastectomy with abdominal free flap reconstruction and VLNT. Two patients with suitable bypass targets underwent LVB, with resolution of breast swelling and subjective symptoms. The diffuse lymphatic obliteration due to radiation field effect in BL results in a distinct pathophysiology compared with extremity lymphedema. Although published reports of surgical BL treatment almost exclusively describe LVB, other surgical options may be more frequently required. Ablative strategies such as mastectomy and regenerative techniques such as VLNT should be considered potential first-line treatment options for these patients.

Primary surgical prevention of lymphedema.

Lymphedema in the upper and lower extremities can lead to significant morbidity in patients, resulting in restricted joint movements, pain, discomfort, and reduced quality of life. While physiological lymphatic reconstructions such as lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA), lymphovenous implantation (LVI), and vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) have shown promise in improving patients' conditions, they only provide limited disease progression control or modest reversal. As lymphedema remains an incurable condition, the focus has shifted toward preventive measures in developed countries where most cases are iatrogenic due to cancer treatments. Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) has been a particular concern, prompting the implementation of preventive measures like axillary reverse mapping. Similarly, techniques with lymph node-preserving concepts have been used to treat lower extremity lymphedema caused by gynecological cancers. Preventive lymphedema measures can be classified into primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention. In this comprehensive review, we will explore the principles and methodologies encompassing lymphatic microsurgical preventive healing approach (LYMPHA), LVA, lymphaticolymphatic anastomosis (LLA), VLNT, and lymph-interpositional-flap transfer (LIFT). By evaluating the advantages and limitations of these techniques, we aim to equip surgeons with the necessary knowledge to effectively address patients at high risk of developing lymphedema.