Lymphoedema

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition that occurs when there is a build-up of lymphatic fluid in the tissues, leading to swelling and discomfort. It can occur in any part of the body, but is most commonly seen in the arms or legs. Lymphoedema is typically caused by damage or obstruction to the lymphatic system, which is responsible for draining fluid from the tissues and transporting immune cells throughout the body. This damage can be caused by surgery, radiation therapy, infection, or other factors. There is no cure for lymphoedema, but it can be managed with a combination of therapies, including compression garments, manual lymphatic drainage, exercise, and skin care. In some cases, surgery or other interventions may be necessary to manage the condition.

Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction

Immediate Lymphatic reconstruction is a surgical procedure designed to restore the normal flow of lymphatic fluid in areas where the lymphatic system will be damaged or blocked, such as after lymph node removal for cancer treatment . Immediate lymphatic reconstruction refers to performing this surgery at the same time as the primary cancer treatment, rather than waiting until after the treatment is completed. This approach has been shown to reduce the risk of developing lymphedema, a chronic condition that causes swelling and discomfort in the affected limb. The surgeon identifies lymphatics in the draining limb and bypass them to a vein in the area to restore flow.

Liposuction for Lymphoedema

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess fat from specific areas of the body. While it can be used to treat certain types of lymphedema, it is typically reserved for cases where other treatments have failed. Liposuction for lymphedema involves removing fatty tissue from the affected limb in order to reduce swelling and improve lymphatic drainage. This can be an effective treatment for some patients with lymphedema, but it is not a cure and may need to be repeated over time. It is important to note that liposuction for lymphedema should only be performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon who is familiar with the condition and its treatment options. Miss Mughal also provides this service for patients with lipoedema which is a condition involving excess fat in the limbs in the absence of lymphoedema.

ICG Lymphography

ICG lymphography is a medical imaging technique that uses Indocyanine Green (ICG), a fluorescent dye, to visualize the lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes. It is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting ICG dye into the interstitial fluid of the affected limb or area, and then using a special camera to observe the flow of the dye through the lymphatic vessels. ICG lymphography is commonly used to diagnose and monitor lymphoedema, a condition characterized by the accumulation of lymphatic fluid in tissues, and to identify any blockages or abnormalities in the lymphatic system. The procedure can also be used to guide surgical interventions, such as lymphatic vessel anastomosis or lymph node transfer, which are aimed at improving lymphatic drainage and reducing swelling. ICG lymphography is generally safe and well-tolerated, and does not involve radiation exposure. However, some patients may experience mild side effects such as localized pain or swelling at the injection site.

Lymphoedema screening

Lymphoedema screening is a combination medical procedure used to detect the early signs of lymphoedema. The goal of lymphoedema screening is to identify patients who are at risk of developing the condition, and to provide early intervention to prevent or manage its progression. Lymphoedema screening typically involves a physical examination of the affected area, along with a review of the patient’s medical history, and any previous treatments or surgeries. Our team may also perform other diagnostic tests, such as imaging studies or lymphatic function tests, to assess the extent of lymphatic damage and determine the best course of treatment. Lymphoedema screening is recommended for patients who are at risk of developing the condition, including those who have undergone lymph node surgery, radiation therapy, or other treatments that can damage the lymphatic system. It is also recommended for patients with a family history of lymphoedema or other lymphatic disorders. Early detection and intervention are critical for managing lymphoedema, and can help prevent the condition from worsening.

Surgical procedure for Lymphoedema

There are several surgical procedures available for the treatment of lymphoedema, including:

1. Lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA): This procedure involves connecting small lymphatic vessels to nearby veins, allowing excess lymphatic fluid to flow into the bloodstream and be eliminated from the body. LVA is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed under local anaesthesia, and has a high success rate in reducing lymphoedema symptoms.

2. Lymph node transfer: This procedure involves transferring healthy lymph nodes from one part of the body to the affected area, in order to improve lymphatic drainage and reduce swelling. Lymph node transfer is typically performed under general anaesthesia, and may require a hospital stay for recovery.

3. Liposuction: In some cases, liposuction may be used to remove excess fat and tissue from the affected area, which can improve lymphatic flow and reduce swelling. Liposuction is typically performed under general anaesthesia, and may require a period of recovery and rehabilitation.

4. Excisional procedures: In severe cases of lymphoedema, surgical removal of the affected tissue may be necessary in order to reduce swelling and improve mobility. This type of surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia, and requires a longer recovery period than other surgical procedures.

Surgical procedures for lymphoedema are typically reserved for patients who have not responded to other forms of treatment, such as compression therapy and exercise. Miss Mughal will evaluate you clinically and decide the best course of treatment . The risks and benefits of each procedure will be discussed at your consultation and we work closely with a team of specialists to develop a personalized treatment plan.

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