Lymphedema Treatment – thereconstructiondoc

Lymphedema

About Lymphedema

What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a condition where fluid builds up in your arms or legs, causing swelling. This
happens when the lymphatic system — which normally drains fluid from tissues — is damaged, often after cancer surgery or radiation.

Treatment Options: From Basics to Surgery

1. Bandaging & Compression Therapy

First line of treatment.

Uses multi-layer bandages or compression garments to reduce swelling.
Helps push the fluid back into circulation.
Often combined with manual lymph drainage (MLD) and exercises.
Best for early or mild lymphedema. Not a cure, but controls symptoms.

2. LVA – Lymphaticovenular Anastomosis

Minimally invasive microsurgery.

Surgeon connects tiny lymphatic vessels directly to nearby veins.
This allows lymph fluid to bypass the damaged area and drain naturally
Ideal for early-stage lymphedema with working lymphatic channels.

3. VLNT – Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer

Advanced microsurgery for moderate to severe cases.

Lymph nodes from another part of the body (like the groin or neck) are
transferred to the affected area.
These new nodes help restart lymphatic drainage.
Helps regenerate lymphatic flow. Especially useful when lymph nodes were removed
during cancer surgery.

4. Reduction Surgeries

For severe, late-stage lymphedema.

Removes thickened, fibrotic tissue from the affected limb.
Includes techniques like liposuction or debulking surgeries.
Improves limb size, shape, and mobility when swelling is irreversible.

5. LYMPHA – Preventive Surgery

Done at the time of cancer surgery (especially in breast cancer).

Lymphatic channels are connected to nearby veins immediately during
lymph node removal.
Prevents lymphedema from developing later.
Proactive approach — reduces the risk of lymphedema before it starts