Recent advances in management of lymphedema

Abstract

There has been a paradigm shift in the management of lymphedema with a better understanding of the functioning of lymphatics with the introduction of “lymphosome concept” and with the recent advances in super-microsurgical techniques. The most frequently used intraoperative imaging modality now is indo cyanine green lymphangiography. In endemic countries, any patient with lymphedema without prior history of trauma or, oncosurgical or radiotherapy interventions must undergo Alere filariasis test strip. Patients in early stages of disease can benefit from complex decongestive therapy and physiologic surgical procedures such as lymphovenous anastomosis or vascularized lymph node transfers. However, in advanced disease, excisions or debulking through radical reduction with preservation of perforators will be required. The localized adipose tissue deposits in lymphedema can be removed by liposuction. At present, there is still no cure for lymphedema, but emerging research in tissue engineering, lymphangiogenic growth factors, and immunomodulatory therapy may provide better management options for lymphedema in future.