Intra-abdominal donors for vascularized lymph node transfer: an update and review

Abstract

Lymphedema continues to be a very challenging clinical problem. While compression and physical therapy remain the foundation of treatment, recent advances in microsurgery and super-microsurgery have allowed for the development of promising surgical options. One of these options is vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT), which has gained significant popularity over recent years. However, there is no consensus on the ideal donor lymph node basin for VLNT. In addition, the most commonly reported donor sites, including the groin, supraclavicular, submental, and lateral thoracic nodes, carry the risk of iatrogenic lymphedema and/or visible scarring. In order to avoid these risks, the use of intra-abdominal donor sites for VLNT has been pursued. This article reviews the reported techniques and outcomes for each of the intra-abdominal donor sites for VLNT.