Lymphatic circuit reconstruction surgery for lymphedema

  The aim of this type of surgery is to rehabilitate lymphatic channels that have been blocked or damaged in order to restore lymphatic return to the limb. The following is an example of the indications and surgical principles of microsurgery for lymphovascular-venous anastomosis.  Indications for lymphovascular-venous anastomosis are primary or secondary causes of obstructive lymphedema, intraoperative estimation of at least 2 lymphatic vessels with autonomic contraction, absence of acute inflammation of the skin and lymph of the affected limb the site of lymphatic vessel obstruction must be clearly defined preoperatively, and preoperative lymphovascular imaging is done to help understand the morphology and functional status of the lymphatic vessels of the affected limb.  Routine preoperative examinations such as nuclear lymphography and venography should also be done.  Microsurgical methods of lymphovascular-venous anastomosis are divided into direct end-to-end, end-to-side, and sleeve-in anastomoses. The choice of anastomosis should depend on the caliber and number of lymphatic vessels and the available veins, but the quality of the anastomosis must be ensured.  Postoperative antibiotics and heparin and dextrose medications are routinely applied for 5-7 days. The affected limb is wrapped with elastic bandages and elevated. Functional exercises of the distal limb joints can be done in the hospital bed after waking up; after one week, you can get out of bed to promote lymphatic reflux and prevent venous blood flow stagnation.