Physiologic Backgrounds of Lymphedema Surgery

Three main methods of lymphedema surgery are liposuction, lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA), and vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT). Although liposuction alone cannot improve the lymphatic circulation, it can reduce the volume of the affected limb. Selection of appropriate lymphatic vessel is important in performing LVA, and the pressure gradient between the lymphatic vessel and the vein is also critical. When performing VLNT, the location of the recipient site should be decided discreetly.