Donor-Site Lymphatic Function after Microvascular Lymph Node Transfer

• DOI: 10.1097/prs.0b013e31826d1682
• Publication Date: 2012-11-17T08:17:53Z
• Authors: Tiina P. Viitanen; Maija T. Mäki; Marko P. Seppänen; Erkki A. Suominen; Anne M. Saaristo
• Keywords: Groin; Axilla; Lymphatic vessel

In Brief Background: Lymphedema remains a challenging clinical problem that often lacks curative treatment options. Recent reports have shown microvascular lymph node transfer from the groin area into axillas of lymphedematous patients may improve lymphatic drainage, but effect on donor-site flow has not been studied. These be more prone to develop lymphedema at donor sites as well; therefore, authors' aim was evaluate postoperative function. Methods: The authors performed flap axilla in 13 patients. 10 patients, simultaneously with lower abdominal breast reconstruction. Postoperative vessel function site evaluated by lymphoscintigraphy and limb circumference measurements. For semiquantitative evaluation numerical transport index used. Results: six revealed minor changes limbs. considered slightly abnormal two None had circumferences during 8- 56-month follow-up. Conclusions: Lymph can easily combined reconstruction, popularity this technique is increasing rapidly. Even though none our developed symptoms lymphedema, results first lymphoscintigrams show it important reduce surgical trauma site. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV. VIDEO DISCUSSION BY DAVID W. CHANG, M.D., IS AVAILABLE ONLINE FOR THIS ARTICLE.