What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of lymphovenous bypass and lymph node transfer in managing lymphedema.

June 19, 2026Open Access

Lymphovenous Bypass and Lymph Node Transfer

Key Points

This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of lymphovenous bypass and lymph node transfer in managing lymphedema.
Reviewing literature on lymphovenous bypass and lymph node transfer treatments.
Discussing personal clinical experiences with these surgical options.
Lymphovenous bypass effectively reduces limb volume and infection risk in early-stage lymphedema.
Vascularized lymph node transfer shows promise as a treatment, especially in post-mastectomy patients.

Abstract

Lymphedema is a common and progressive condition complicating cancer treatment. Recent articles report that surgery can effectively treat lymphedema. Lymphovenous bypass and vascularized lymph node transfer are surgical treatment options for lymphedema. The two physiologic surgeries can reduce not only the volume of affected limb but also the risk of infection and cellulitis. Lymphovenous anastomosis is effective for treating early-stage lymphedema before fibrosis occurs but has limited outcomes in advanced lymphedema. Lymph node transfer is an emerging physiologic surgical treatment for lymphedema that shows promise. In patients with mastectomy, vascularized lymph node transfer can also be combined with breast reconstruction flaps to be an elegant treatment. The authors review the literature and announce personal experiences on lymphovenous bypass and lymph node transfer and discuss its possible mechanisms and its role in lymphedema treatment.

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