FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Lymphedema is a chronic condition that cannot be cured but it can be managed effectively with appropriate treatment.
Traditional lymphedema management with compression therapies can fail to improve advanced cases and this is when surgical interventions such as ours, is needed. Since lymphedema is a chronic condition no surgery, even though sometimes presented as such, can be curative.
The primary mechanism of compression therapy is to apply graduate pressure on the affected limb, which helps move excess lymph fluid out of the tissue and back into the lymphatic circulation. By enhancing lymph flow, compression helps reduce the swelling and can significantly decrease the volume of the affected limb over time.
By enhancing lymph flow, compression garments help reduce the swelling associated with lymphedema and help to prevent further fluid accumulation. Lymph fluid that is stagnated causes an inflammation that stimulates fibrosis and adipose (fatty) tissue. The combination of fluid accumulation, fibrosis and increased fatty tissue contributes to the increased volume and changes in the texture and consistency of the limb affected by lymphedema. This can make the limb appear larger, less flexible and feel harder.
n chronic lymphedema, especially in the advanced stages, there’s an accumulation of excess fat and fibrotic tissue in the affected limb. This occurs because of the body´s response to long-standing lymphatic fluid stasis and inflammation. Liposuction directly removes these excess fat deposits and fibrotic tissues, reducing he limb´s volume. The volume reduction is maintained primarily through the continuous use of compression. The garments are essential to prevent the limb from refilling with fluid and to shape the lib as it heals.
By significantly reducing the volume of the affected limb, patients experience improved mobility and a decrease in the associated discomfort and pain. This improvement leads to a better quality of life, with patient finding it easier to engage in daily activities and wear standard sized clothing and shoes.
Lymphaticovenula Anastomosis (LVA) means that the surgeon connects the blocked lymphatic vessels directly to small veins, allowing the lymphatic fluid to bypass the obstructed or damaged part of the lymphatic system. In early stages of lymphedema, it has been demonstrated to have effect but on severe and advanced cases this surgery is not recommended.
Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT): In this procedure, lymph nodes from another part of the body are transplanted to the affected area to restore lymphatic function. In early stages of lymphedema, it has been demonstrated to have effect but on severe cases and advanced cases this surgery is not recommended.
Pitting edema shows that there is excess fluid in the limb, and it needs to be removed by conservative means before surgery can be considered.
Smoking decreases the oxygen supply and the blood flow in the small blood vessels, which can compromise the result from surgery and increase the risk for complications from the anaesthesia. You should stop smoking at least a month prior to surgery.
Local tenderness is common but is usually resolved in 1-2 weeks. There may also be decreased sensation and some hardness under the skin, but this usually disappears in 6 months. The compression garments can cause skin irritation and sometimes you will need to change to different sort of material.