Lymphoscintigraphy in the evaluation of lower extremity lymphedema: Local experience

Abstract

Objective: To review our local experience in the use of lymphoscintigraphy to evaluate lymphedema of the lower extremities. Design: Retrospective case series. Setting: A local regional hospital in Hong Kong. Patients: Images and records of all patients presenting to our hospital with suspected lower limb lymphedema from 1998 to 2011 for whom lymphoscintigraphy was performed were reviewed. Main outcome measures: Lymphoscintigraphy findings and clinical outcomes. Results: In all, 24 patients (13 males and 11 females; age range, 14-83 years) had undergone lymphoscintigraphy for suspected lower limb lymphedema. Eight cases were confirmed positive, including one with lymphangiectasia, five with lymphatic obstruction, and two with lymphatic leakage. No complication was encountered. Conclusion: Lymphoscintigraphy is safe and effective for the evaluation of lymphedema in lower extremities.