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Médor MC, Churchill IF, Pereira D, Roberts A, Cordeiro E, Findlay-Shirras L, Zhang J, Momtazi M. Lymphovenous Bypass for Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Axillary Lymph Node Dissection: Minimizing the Risk of Upper Extremity Lymphedema. J Reconstr Microsurg 2024; 40:713-721. [PMID: 38657631 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1785680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have shown a significant reduction in breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) rates in patients undergoing complete axillary lymph node dissection (cALND) combined with immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR) using lymphovenous bypass (LVB).The purpose of this study was to determine if ILR with LVB at the time of cALND results in a decreased incidence of BCRL and its impact on patient quality of life (QOL). METHODS In this prospective cohort study, patients ≥ 18 years requiring cALND underwent ILR from 2019 to 2021. The primary outcome was bilateral upper limb volumes measured by Brørson's truncated cone formula and the Pero-System (3D Körper Scanner). The secondary outcome was QOL measured by the Lymphedema Quality of Life (LYMQOL) arm patient-reported outcome measurement. RESULTS Forty-two patients consented to ILR using LVB. ILR was completed in 41 patients with a mean of 1.9 ± 0.9 lymphovenous anastomosis performed. Mean age of patients was 52.4 ± 10.5 years with a mean body mass index of 27.5 ± 4.9 kg/m2. All patients (n = 39, 100%) received adjuvant therapy after ILR. Mean follow-up was 15.2 ± 5.1 months. Five patients met criteria for lymphedema throughout the duration of the study (12.8%), with two patients having resolution, with an overall incidence of 7.7% by the end of the study period. Patients with lymphedema were found to have statistically significant lower total LYMQOL values at 18 months (8.44 ± 1.17 vs. 3.23 ± 0.56, p < 0.001). A mean increase of 0.73 ± 3.5 points was observed for overall QOL average for upper limb function at 18 months compared with 3 months (t = 0.823, p = 0.425). CONCLUSION This study showed an incidence of 7.7% lymphedema development throughout the duration of study. We also showed that ILR has the potential to reduce the significant long-term adverse outcomes of lymphedema and improve QOL for patients undergoing cALND.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria C Médor
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Diego Pereira
- Division of Plastic Surgery, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amanda Roberts
- Division of General Surgery, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Erin Cordeiro
- Division of General Surgery, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Jing Zhang
- Division of Plastic Surgery, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Moein Momtazi
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Sharifi N, Ahmad S. Breast cancer-related lymphedema: A critical review on recent progress. Surg Oncol 2024; 56:102124. [PMID: 39208532 DOI: 10.1016/j.suronc.2024.102124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Lymphedema is a chronic and debilitating condition characterized by an abnormal buildup of protein-rich fluid in the interstitial tissue, leading to the development of edema and tissue structural alterations. Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) remains a significant healthcare burden because it can develop within days and up to 11-years after the surgery. Specifically, axillary lymph node dissection leads to 30-50 % upper limb lymphedema, which involves the accumulation of protein-rich fluid. In this article, we provide a comprehensive/critical overview of post-mastectomy lymphedema, focusing on key aspects as diagnosis, prevention, and treatment methods. Beginning with clinical condition, the article explores the pathophysiology and risk factors associated with post-mastectomy lymphedema. It further delves into various diagnostic modalities available, highlighting the importance of early detection for optimal management of BCRL. We also examine preventive strategies, emphasizing the role of patient education, lifestyle modifications, and proactive measures in reducing the risk of lymphedema development. In terms of treatment, the article covers a wide array of interventions ranging from conservative approaches like manual lymphatic drainage and compression therapy to surgical techniques such as lymph node transfer and lymphaticovenular anastomosis. Thus, through a comprehensive synthesis of current evidence and clinical practices updates, the review aims to guide healthcare professionals in delivering preventive and effective care while improving outcomes for individuals affected by post-mastectomy lymphedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasrin Sharifi
- AdventHealth Cancer Institute, Gynecologic Oncology Program, Orlando, FL, 32804, USA; Valencia College, Department of Health Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy & Physiology, Orlando, FL, 32802, USA
| | - Sarfraz Ahmad
- AdventHealth Cancer Institute, Gynecologic Oncology Program, Orlando, FL, 32804, USA.
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McEvoy MP, Feldman S. Prevention and Treatment of Lymphedema in Breast Cancer. Adv Surg 2024; 58:65-77. [PMID: 39089787 DOI: 10.1016/j.yasu.2024.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer related lymphedema (BCRL) affects many breast cancer survivors and drastically affects their quality of life. There are several surveillance methods for BCRL that are critical at early detection. Prevention of BCRL involves knowledge of alternatives to aggressive axillary surgery, avoidance of axillary surgery, and de-escalation of axillary surgery. There are also techniques to better delineate the anatomy in the axilla to avoid taking nodes that drain the upper extremity. A multidisciplinary approach with medical oncology and radiation oncology can also help avoid unnecessary surgery or radiation that can together strongly increase the risk of BCRL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen P McEvoy
- Department of Surgery, Division of Breast Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Montefiore Breast Care Center, 1250 Waters Place, Tower 1, 7th Floor, Bronx, NY 10461, USA.
| | - Sheldon Feldman
- Department of Surgery, Division of Breast Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Montefiore Breast Care Center, 1250 Waters Place, Tower 1, 7th Floor, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
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Wong AWJ, Sim NHS, Thing CB, Xu W, Chua HW, Ngaserin S, Loh S, Kok YO, Feng JJ, Pearlie TWW, Tan BKT. Distally Based Lymphatic Microsurgical Preventive Healing Approach-A Modification of the Classic Approach. Arch Plast Surg 2024; 51:504-509. [PMID: 39346002 PMCID: PMC11436324 DOI: 10.1055/a-2336-0150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The treatment of breast cancer has seen great success in the recent decade. With longer survivorship, more attention is paid to function and aesthetics as integral treatment components. However, breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) remains a significant complication. Immediate lymphatic reconstruction is an emerging technique to reduce the risk of BCRL, the Lymphatic Microsurgical Preventive Healing Approach (LYMPHA) being the most widely used approach. Despite promising results, it is often difficult to find suitably sized recipient venules and perform the microanastomoses between mismatched vessels deep in the axilla. Moreover, high axillary venous pressure gradients and potential damage from radiotherapy may affect the long-term patency of the anastomoses. From an ergonomic point of view, performing lymphaticovenular anastomosis in the deep axilla may be challenging for the microsurgeon. In response to these limitations, we modified the technique by moving the lymphatic reconstruction distally-terming it distally based LYMPHA (dLYMPHA). A total of 113 patients underwent mastectomy with axillary clearance in our institution from 2018 to 2021. Of these, 26 underwent subsequent dLYMPHA (Group 2), whereas 87 did not (Group 1). In total, 17.2% (15 patients) and 3.84% (1 patient) developed BCRL in Groups 1 and 2, respectively ( p = 0.018). Lymphatics and recipient venules suitable for anastomoses can be reliably found in the distal upper limb with better size match. A distal modification achieves a more favorable lymphaticovenular pressure gradient, vessel match, and ergonomics while ensuring a comparably low BCRL rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allen Wei-Jiat Wong
- Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery Service, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Nadia Hui Shan Sim
- Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery Service, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Coeway Boulder Thing
- Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery Service, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Wenxuan Xu
- Toulouse School of Economics, Université Toulouse 1 Capitole, Toulouse, France
| | - Hui Wen Chua
- Department of General Surgery, Breast Service, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Sabrina Ngaserin
- Department of General Surgery, Breast Service, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Shermaine Loh
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Yee Onn Kok
- Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery Service, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore
- Department of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Jia Jun Feng
- Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery Service, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore
- Department of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Tan Woon Woon Pearlie
- Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery Service, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore
- Department of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Benita Kiat-Tee Tan
- Department of General Surgery, Breast Service, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore
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Sung C, Wang J, Chang J, Wong AK. Review of treatment strategies after lymphadenectomy: From molecular therapeutics to immediate microsurgical lymphatic reconstruction. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord 2024; 12:101844. [PMID: 38316291 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2024.101844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Lymphedema is a common complication of cancer treatment, such as lymphadenectomy and radiation therapy. It is a debilitating condition with pathologic tissue changes that hinder effective curative treatment and jeopardize patients' quality of life. Various attempts to prevent the development of lymphedema have been made, with improvements in the incidence of the pathology. However, it is still prevalent among survivors of cancer. In this paper, we review both molecular therapeutics and immediate surgical lymphatic reconstruction as treatment strategies after lymphadenectomy. Specifically, we discuss pro-lymphangiogenic molecules that have proved efficient in animal models of lymphedema and clinical trials, and review currently available microsurgical techniques of immediate lymphatic reconstruction. METHODS A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar through May 2022. Searches were done separately for molecular therapeutics and microsurgical techniques for immediate lymphatic reconstruction. Search terms used for (1) non-surgical methods include 'lymphangiogenesis,' 'lymphedema,' 'growth factor,' and 'gene therapy.' Search terms used for (2) surgical methods include 'lymphedema,' 'lymph node excision,' 'lymphatic vessels,' 'primary prevention,' and 'microsurgery.' RESULTS Various pro-lymphangiogenic factors with therapeutic potential include VEGF-C, VEGF-D, HGF, bFGF, PDGF, IGF, Retinoic acid, Ang-1, S1P, TLR4, and IL-8. Microsurgical lymphatic reconstruction for prevention of secondary lymphedema includes lymphovenous anastomosis, vascularized lymph node flap transfer, and lymph-interpositional flap transfer, with promising clinical outcomes. CONCLUSIONS With growing knowledge of the lymphangiogenic pathway and lymphedema pathology and advances in microsurgical techniques to restore lymphatic channels, molecular and surgical approaches may represent a promising method for primary prevention of lymphedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Sung
- Division of Plastic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA; Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA; Division of Plastic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA
| | - Jin Wang
- Division of Plastic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA
| | - Jeff Chang
- Division of Plastic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA
| | - Alex K Wong
- Division of Plastic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA.
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Uyulmaz S, Grünherz L, Giovanoli P, Fuchs B, Lindenblatt N. Primary Lymphovenous Anastomosis After Extended Soft Tissue Resection in the Medial Thigh for Reduction of Lymphocele and Lymphedema. Ann Plast Surg 2024; 93:221-228. [PMID: 38920154 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000003994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Postoperative chronic lymphocele and lymphedema represent severe burdens for soft tissue sarcoma patients who are already physically handicapped after an extensive surgery and a long recovery time. Incidences are high in the upper medial thigh. We have shifted our focus to lymphedema and lymphocele risk reduction with immediate lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) after sarcoma resection. METHODS We performed immediate lymphatic reconstruction in 11 patients after soft tissue sarcoma resection in the upper medial thigh. The postoperative course was followed up closely, and postoperative occurrence of lymphocele and lymphedema was clinically assessed. A literature search outlining the latest clinical data, current treatment strategy landscape, and their application into clinical practice was added to the investigation. RESULTS A total of 19 LVA and 2 lympho-lymphatic anastomoses were performed in 11 patients immediately after tumor resection in an end-to-end manner. We found a postoperative lymphedema rate of 36% and a postoperative lymphocele rate of 27%. Mean follow-up time was 17 months. Average tumor volume was 749 cc. Our literature search yielded 27 articles reporting on immediate LVA in cancer patients. Incidences of secondary lymphedema after LVA for lymphedema prevention vary between 0% and 31.1%. Lymphocele prevention with LVA is poorly studied in sarcoma patients. CONCLUSION Immediate lymphatic reconstruction improved the overall postoperative course of our patients. The current literature does not serve with high-quality studies about primary LVA preventing lymphedema and lymphocele formation. We conclude that this technique should be seen as an additional concept to achieve overall better postoperative outcomes in these challenging surgical settings. We strongly recommend to either anastomose or ligate severed lymphatics under the microscope primarily after sarcoma resection in the upper medial thigh area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Semra Uyulmaz
- From the Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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King TA, Mittendorf EA. Breast Articles From 2023: Informing Practice Across the Continuum of Care. Ann Surg Oncol 2024; 31:4470-4476. [PMID: 38734863 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-024-15387-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
With new investigations and clinical trials in breast oncology reported every year, it is critical that surgeons be aware of advances and insights into the evolving care paradigms and treatments available to their patients. This article highlights five publications found to be particularly impactful this past year. These articles report on efforts to select the minimal effective dose of tamoxifen for prevention, to challenge the existing age-based screening guidelines as they relate to race and ethnicity, to refine axillary management treatment standards, to optimize systemic therapy in multidisciplinary care settings, and to reduce the burden of breast cancer-related lymphedema after treatment. Taken together, these efforts have an impact on all facets of the continuum of care from prevention and screening through treatment and survivorship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tari A King
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Breast Oncology Program, Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Elizabeth A Mittendorf
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Breast Oncology Program, Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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8
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Brahma B, Yamamoto T, Panigoro SS, Haryono SJ, Yusuf PA, Priambodo PS, Harimurti K, Taher A. Supermicrosurgery lymphaticovenous and lymphaticolymphatic anastomosis: Technical detail and short-term follow-up for immediate lymphatic reconstruction in breast cancer treatment-related lymphedema prevention. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord 2024; 12:101863. [PMID: 38428499 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2024.101863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We describe the feasibility and short-term outcome of our surgical technique to repair the lymph vessel disruption directly after axillary lymph node dissection during breast cancer surgery. This procedure is called immediate lymphatic reconstruction to prevent breast cancer treatment-related lymphedema (BCRL), which frequently occurs after axillary lymph node dissection. The surgical technique consisted of lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) or lymphaticolymphatic anastomosis. We named the procedure lymphatic bypass supermicrosurgery (LBS). METHODS This study used a retrospective cohort design of patients with breast cancer between May 2020 and February 2023. LBS was performed by making an intima-to-intima coaptation between afferent lymph vessels and the recipient's veins (LVA) or efferent lymph vessels lymphaticolymphatic anastomosis. RESULTS A total of 82 patients underwent lymphatic bypass. The mean age of patients was 50 ± 12 years, and most had stage III breast cancer (n = 59 [72%]). LVA was the most common type of lymphatic bypass (94.6%). The median number of LVA was 1 (range, 1-4) and 1 (range, 1-3) for lymphaticolymphatic anastomosis. The median follow-up time was 12.5 months (range, 1-33 months). The 50 patients who had postoperative indocyanine green lymphography described arm dermal backflow stage 0 in 20 (40%), stage 1 in 19 (38%), stage 2 in 2 (4%), and stage 3 in 9 (18%) cases. The proportion of BCRL was 11 (22%), and subclinical lymphedema was 19 (38%) in this period. Most cases were in stable subclinical lymphedema (10, 58.8%). The 1-year and 2-year BCRL rates were 14% (95% confidence interval, 4%-23.9%) and 22% (95% confidence interval, 10.1%-33.9%), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Along with the emerging immediate lymphatic reconstruction, LBS is a feasible supermicrosurgery technique that may have a potential role in BCRL prevention. A randomized controlled study would confirm the effectiveness of the technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bayu Brahma
- Doctoral Program in Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia; Department of Surgical Oncology, Dharmais Cancer Hospital-National Cancer Center, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Takumi Yamamoto
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Sonar Soni Panigoro
- Oncology Division, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia - Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Samuel Johny Haryono
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Dharmais Cancer Hospital-National Cancer Center, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Prasandhya Astagiri Yusuf
- Department of Medical Physiology and Biophysics/Medical Technology IMERI, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Purnomo Sidi Priambodo
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Kuntjoro Harimurti
- Division of Geriatrics/Clinical Epidemiological Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Universitas Indonesia - Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Akmal Taher
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia - Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
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Yang AZ, Hyland CJ, Thomas C, Miller AS, Malek AJ, Broyles JM. Geographic Disparities and Payment Variation for Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction in Massachusetts. Ann Plast Surg 2024; 93:79-84. [PMID: 38885166 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000003920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about practice patterns and payments for immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR). This study aims to evaluate trends in ILR delivery and billing practices. METHODS We queried the Massachusetts All-Payer Claims Database between 2016 and 2020 for patients who underwent lumpectomy or mastectomy with axillary lymph node dissection for oncologic indications. We further identified patients who underwent lymphovenous bypass on the same date as tumor resection. We used ZIP code data to analyze the geographic distribution of ILR procedures and calculated physician payments for these procedures, adjusting for inflation. We used multivariable logistic regression to identify variables, which predicted receipt of ILR. RESULTS In total, 2862 patients underwent axillary lymph node dissection over the study period. Of these, 53 patients underwent ILR. Patients who underwent ILR were younger (55.1 vs 59.3 years, P = 0.023). There were no significant differences in obesity, diabetes, or smoking history between the two groups. A greater percentage of patients who underwent ILR had radiation (83% vs 67%, P = 0.027). In multivariable regression, patients residing in a county neighboring Boston had 3.32-fold higher odds of undergoing ILR (95% confidence interval: 1.76-6.25; P < 0.001), while obesity, radiation therapy, and taxane-based chemotherapy were not significant predictors. Payments for ILR varied widely. CONCLUSIONS In Massachusetts, patients were more likely to undergo ILR if they resided near Boston. Thus, many patients with the highest known risk for breast cancer-related lymphedema may face barriers accessing ILR. Greater awareness about referring high-risk patients to plastic surgeons is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Andrew J Malek
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Justin M Broyles
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
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Friedman R, Ismail Aly MA, Fanning JE, Pardo JA, Johnson AR, Lee BT, James T, Singhal D. Immediate lymphatic reconstruction: Lessons learned over eight years. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2024; 94:1-11. [PMID: 38729046 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2024.04.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR) is recognized as a surgical approach used to reduce the risk of developing secondary lymphedema, and evidence demonstrating the efficacy of ILR is favorable. Our Lymphatic Center has become a centralized location offering ILR for the risk-reduction in breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) in New England. Over the course of our experience, we made several modifications and adapted our approach to enhance the operative success of this procedure. These include advancements in our use of indocyanine green (ICG) imaging to identify baseline lymphatic anatomical variation, utilization of fluorescein isothiocyanate for lymphatic vessel visualization, application of the lymphosome concept to guide arm injection sites, verification of anastomotic patency (using ICG), localization of reconstruction to guide radiation therapy, incorporation of intraoperative tools to facilitate better anatomic visualization of the axilla, and addition of a lower extremity vein graft to mitigate venous-related complications. Collecting information from each surgery in a standardized manner, including intraoperative lymphatic channel measurements, and deploying clips for possible future radiation exposure, enables future studies on ILR patient outcomes. In this contribution, we aimed to share our institutional modifications with the surgical community to facilitate further adoption, conversation, and advancement of ILR for the risk-reduction in BCRL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosie Friedman
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mohamed A Ismail Aly
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - James E Fanning
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jaime A Pardo
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Rush University Medical College, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Anna R Johnson
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Bernard T Lee
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ted James
- Department of Surgery, Breast Care Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dhruv Singhal
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Cauley RP, Rahmani B, Adebagbo OD, Park J, Garvey SR, Chen A, Nickman S, Tobin M, Valentine L, Weidman AA, Singhal D, Dowlatshahi A, Lin SJ, Lee BT. Optimizing Surgical Outcomes and the Role of Preventive Surgery: A Scoping Review. J Reconstr Microsurg 2024. [PMID: 38782025 DOI: 10.1055/a-2331-7885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plastic and reconstructive surgeons are often presented with reconstructive challenges as a sequela of complications in high-risk surgical patients, ranging from exposure of hardware, lymphedema, and chronic pain after amputation. These complications can result in significant morbidity, recovery time, resource utilization, and cost. Given the prevalence of surgical complications managed by plastic and reconstructive surgeons, developing novel preventative techniques to mitigate surgical risk is paramount. METHODS Herein, we aim to understand efforts supporting the nascent field of Preventive Surgery, including (1) enhanced risk stratification, (2) advancements in postoperative care. Through an emphasis on four surgical cohorts who may benefit from preventive surgery, two of which are at high risk of morbidity from wound-related complications (patients undergoing sternotomy and spine procedures) and two at high risk of other morbidities, including lymphedema and neuropathic pain, we aim to provide a comprehensive and improved understanding of preventive surgery. Additionally, the role of risk analysis for these procedures and the relationship between microsurgery and prophylaxis is emphasized. RESULTS (1) medical optimization and prehabilitation, (2) surgical mitigation techniques. CONCLUSION Reconstructive surgeons are ideally placed to lead efforts in the creation and validation of accurate risk assessment tools and to support algorithmic approaches to surgical risk mitigation. Through a paradigm shift, including universal promotion of the concept of "Preventive Surgery," major improvements in surgical outcomes may be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan P Cauley
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Benjamin Rahmani
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Oluwaseun D Adebagbo
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Surgery, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - John Park
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Shannon R Garvey
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Amy Chen
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sasha Nickman
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Micaela Tobin
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lauren Valentine
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Allan A Weidman
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Dhruv Singhal
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Arriyan Dowlatshahi
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Samuel J Lin
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Bernard T Lee
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Ahmed S, Hulsman L, Roth D, Fisher C, Ludwig K, Imeokparia FO, VonDerHaar RJ, Lester ME, Hassanein AH. Evaluating Operative Times for Intraoperative Conversion of Axillary Node Biopsy to Axillary Lymph Node Dissection with Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction. J Reconstr Microsurg 2024. [PMID: 38866037 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1787727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lymphedema can occur in patients undergoing axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) and radiation for breast cancer. Immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR) is performed to decrease the risk of lymphedema in patients after ALND. Some patients who ultimately require ALND are candidates for attempted sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) or targeted axillary excision. In those scenarios, ALND can be performed (1) immediately if frozen sections are positive or (2) as a second operation following permanent pathology. The purpose of this study is to evaluate immediate ALND/ILR following positive intraoperative frozen sections to guide surgical decision-making and operative planning. METHODS A single-center retrospective review was performed (2019-2022) for breast cancer patients undergoing axillary node surgery with breast reconstruction. Patients were divided into two groups: immediate conversion to ALND/ILR (Group 1) and no immediate conversion to ALND (Group 2). Demographic data and operative time were recorded. RESULTS There were 148 patients who underwent mastectomy, tissue expander (TE) reconstruction, and axillary node surgery. Group 1 included 30 patients who had mastectomy, sentinel node/targeted node biopsy, TE reconstruction, and intraoperative conversion to immediate ALND/ILR. Group 2 had 118 patients who underwent mastectomy with TE reconstruction and SLNB with no ALND or ILR. Operative time for bilateral surgery was 303.1 ± 63.2 minutes in Group 1 compared with 222.6 ± 52.2 minutes in Group 2 (p = 0.001). Operative time in Group 1 patients undergoing unilateral surgery was 252.3 ± 71.6 minutes compared with 171.3 ± 43.2 minutes in Group 2 (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION Intraoperative frozen section of sentinel/targeted nodes extended operative time by approximately 80 minutes in patients undergoing mastectomy with breast reconstruction and conversion of SLNB to ALND/ILR. Intraoperative conversion to ALND adds unpredictability to the operation as well as additional potentially unaccounted operative time. However, staging ALND requires an additional operation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahnur Ahmed
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Luci Hulsman
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Dylan Roth
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Carla Fisher
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Kandice Ludwig
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Folasade O Imeokparia
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | | | - Mary E Lester
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Aladdin H Hassanein
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
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Spoer DL, Berger LE, Towfighi PN, Deldar R, Gupta N, Huffman SS, Sharif-Askary B, Fan KL, Parikh RP, Tom LK. Lymphovenous Coupler-Assisted Bypass for Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction. J Reconstr Microsurg 2024; 40:334-347. [PMID: 37751886 DOI: 10.1055/a-2181-7559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer-related lymphedema is the most common cause of lymphedema in the United States and occurs in up to 50% of individuals receiving axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). Lymphovenous bypass (LVB) at the time of ALND may prevent lymphedema, but long-term results and anastomotic patency are unclear. This study evaluates the feasibility and outcomes of performing immediate lymphatic reconstruction via coupler-assisted bypass (CAB). METHODS This is a retrospective review of all patients undergoing prophylactic LVB following ALND at two tertiary care centers between 2018 and 2022. Patients were divided into cohorts based on whether they received the "standard" end-to-end (E-E) suturing or CAB technique. The primary outcome of interest was development of lymphedema. Quantitative and qualitative assessments for lymphedema were performed preoperatively and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. RESULTS Overall, 63 LVBs were performed, of which 24 lymphatics underwent immediate reconstruction via "CAB" and 39 lymphatics via "standard" end-to-end suture. Patient characteristics, including body mass index, and treatment characteristics, including radiation therapy, did not significantly differ between groups. CAB was associated with a greater mean number of lymphatics bypassed per vein (standard 1.7 vs. CAB 2.6, p = 0.0001) and bypass to larger veins (standard 1.2 vs. CAB 2.2 mm, p < 0.0001). At a median follow-up of 14.7 months, 9.1% (1/11) of individuals receiving CAB developed lymphedema. These rates were similar to those seen following standard bypass at 4.8% (1/21), although within a significantly shorter follow-up duration (standard 7.8 vs. CAB 14.7 months, p = 0.0170). CONCLUSION The CAB technique is a viable, effective technical alternative to the standard LVB technique. This comparative study of techniques in prophylactic LVB suggests that CABs maintain long-term patency, possibly due to the ease of anastomosing several lymphatics to single large caliber veins while reducing the technical demands of the procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy L Spoer
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Lauren E Berger
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia
- Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Division, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Parhom N Towfighi
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Mercy Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Romina Deldar
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Nisha Gupta
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Samuel S Huffman
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Banafsheh Sharif-Askary
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Kenneth L Fan
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Rajiv P Parikh
- Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Division, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Laura K Tom
- Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Division, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey
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14
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Weber WP, Hanson SE, Wong DE, Heidinger M, Montagna G, Cafferty FH, Kirby AM, Coles CE. Personalizing Locoregional Therapy in Patients With Breast Cancer in 2024: Tailoring Axillary Surgery, Escalating Lymphatic Surgery, and Implementing Evidence-Based Hypofractionated Radiotherapy. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2024; 44:e438776. [PMID: 38815195 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_438776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
The management of axillary lymph nodes in breast cancer is continually evolving. Recent data now support omitting axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) in most patients with metastases in up to two sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) during upfront surgery and those with residual isolated tumor cells after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT). In the upfront surgery setting, ALND is still indicated, however, in patients with clinically node-positive breast cancer or more than two positive SLNs and, after NACT, in case of residual micrometastases and macrometastases. Omission of the sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) can be considered in many postmenopausal patients with small luminal breast cancer, particularly when axillary ultrasound is negative. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are currently aiming at eliminating the remaining indications for ALND and also establishing omission of SLNB in a broader patient population. The movement to deescalate axillary staging is in part because of the association between ALND and lymphedema, which is swelling of an extremity because of lymphatic damage and obstructed lymphatic drainage. To reduce the risk of developing this condition, patients undergoing ALND can undergo reverse mapping of the axilla and immediate reconstruction or bypass of the lymphatics from the involved extremity. Decongestion and compression are the foundation of conservative treatment for established lymphedema, while lymphovenous bypass and lymph node transfer are surgical procedures to address the physiologic dysfunction. Radiotherapy is an essential component of breast locoregional therapy: more than three decades of radiation research has optimized treatment according to patient's risk of local recurrence while substantially reducing the number of treatment visits. High-quality RCTs have shown the efficacy and safety of hypofractionation-more than 2Gy radiation dose per treatment (fraction)-significantly reducing the burden of radiotherapy treatment for many patients with breast cancer. In 2024, guidelines recommend no more than 15-16 fractions for whole-breast and nodal radiotherapy, with some recommending five fractions for whole-breast radiotherapy. In addition, simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) has been shown to be noninferior to sequential boost with regards to ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence with similar or reduced long-term side effects, also reducing overall treatment length. Further RCTs are underway investigating other indications for five fractions, including SIB and regional node irradiation, such that, in future, it may be possible for the majority of breast radiotherapy patients to be treated with a 1-week course. This manuscript serves to outline the latest updates on axillary surgical staging, lymphatic surgery, and evidence-based radiotherapy in the treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter Paul Weber
- Breast Clinic, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Summer E Hanson
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The University of Chicago Medicine and Biological Sciences Division, Chicago, IL
| | - Daniel E Wong
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The University of Chicago Medicine and Biological Sciences Division, Chicago, IL
| | - Martin Heidinger
- Breast Clinic, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Giacomo Montagna
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Fay H Cafferty
- Institute of Cancer Research Clinical Trials and Statistics Unit, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anna M Kirby
- Institute of Cancer Research and Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte E Coles
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Ahmed S, Imeokparia FO, Hassanein AH. Surgical management of lymphedema: prophylactic and therapeutic operations. CURRENT BREAST CANCER REPORTS 2024; 16:185-192. [PMID: 38988994 PMCID: PMC11233112 DOI: 10.1007/s12609-024-00543-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Lymphedema is chronic limb swelling from lymphatic dysfunction and is currently incurable. Breast-cancer related lymphedema (BCRL) affects up to 5 million Americans and occurs in one-third of breast cancer survivors following axillary lymph node dissection. Compression remains the mainstay of therapy. Surgical management of BCRL includes excisional procedures to remove excess tissue and physiologic procedures to attempt improve fluid retention in the limb. The purpose of this review is to highlight surgical management strategies for preventing and treating breast cancer-related lymphedema. Recent findings Immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR) is a microsurgical technique that anastomoses disrupted axillary lymphatic vessels to nearby veins at the time of axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) and has been reported to reduce lymphedema rates from 30% to 4-12%. Summary Postsurgical lymphedema remains incurable. Surgical management of lymphedema includes excisional procedures and physiologic procedures using microsurgical technique. Immediate lymphatic reconstruction has emerged as a prophylactic strategy to prevent lymphedema in breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahnur Ahmed
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Folasade O Imeokparia
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Aladdin H Hassanein
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
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16
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Malhotra S, Tadros AB. New Strategies for Locally Advanced Breast Cancer: A Review of Inflammatory Breast Cancer and Nonresponders. Clin Breast Cancer 2024; 24:301-309. [PMID: 38431513 PMCID: PMC11338289 DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2024.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
This review explores the new strategies around the management of locally advanced breast cancer (LABC), particularly for nonresponsive tumors and/or initially unresectable tumors at diagnosis, inclusive of inflammatory breast cancer. Nonresponders to neoadjuvant systemic therapy present a unique clinical challenge. Emerging medical therapeutics as well as considerations for use of radiotherapy and/or surgery in this setting are discussed. Specifically, the use of neoadjuvant radiotherapy for LABC and lymphedema prevention with lymphatic reconstruction following axillary lymph node dissection are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simran Malhotra
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Audree B Tadros
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY.
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17
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Wainwright DJ, Le NK, Weinstein B, West W, Tavares T, Panetta NJ. The Impact of Obesity on Success of Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction for Prevention of Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema. Ann Plast Surg 2024; 92:S437-S440. [PMID: 38857010 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000003956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BRCL) is a potential sequela of high-risk breast cancer treatment. Preventive treatment with immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR) at the time of axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) has emerged as the standard of care; however, there is relatively little known about factors that may contribute to procedural failure. METHODS A retrospectively maintained, institutional review board-approved study followed patients who underwent ILR at the time of ALND at our tertiary care center between May 2018 and May 2023. Patients who presented for at least one follow-up visit in our multidisciplinary lymphedema clinic met the criteria for inclusion. Patients who developed lymphedema despite ILR and potential contributing factors were further explored. RESULTS 349 patients underwent ILR at our institution between May 2018 and May 2023. 341 of these patients have presented for follow-up in our multidisciplinary lymphedema clinic. 32 (9.4%) patients developed lymphedema despite ILR. This cohort was significantly more likely to be obese (56% vs 35%, P = 0.04). Multivariate logistic regression demonstrates increased odds of procedural failure in patients with a body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2 (odds ratio 2.6 [1.2-5.5], P = 0.01). CONCLUSION These data comment upon our institutions outcomes following ILR. Patients who develop lymphedema despite ILR tend to have a higher BMI, with a significantly increased risk in patients with a BMI of 30 or greater. Consideration of these data is critical for preprocedural counseling and may support a BMI cutoff when considering candidacy for ILR going forward, as well as when optimizing failures for secondary lymphedema procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- D'Arcy J Wainwright
- From the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine
| | - Nicole K Le
- From the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine
| | - Brielle Weinstein
- From the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine
| | - William West
- University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine
| | - Tina Tavares
- Breast Oncology Program, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL
| | - Nicholas J Panetta
- From the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine
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18
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Sun JM, Yamamoto T. Primary surgical prevention of lymphedema. J Chin Med Assoc 2024; 87:567-571. [PMID: 38666773 DOI: 10.1097/jcma.0000000000001101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Lymphedema in the upper and lower extremities can lead to significant morbidity in patients, resulting in restricted joint movements, pain, discomfort, and reduced quality of life. While physiological lymphatic reconstructions such as lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA), lymphovenous implantation (LVI), and vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) have shown promise in improving patients' conditions, they only provide limited disease progression control or modest reversal. As lymphedema remains an incurable condition, the focus has shifted toward preventive measures in developed countries where most cases are iatrogenic due to cancer treatments. Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) has been a particular concern, prompting the implementation of preventive measures like axillary reverse mapping. Similarly, techniques with lymph node-preserving concepts have been used to treat lower extremity lymphedema caused by gynecological cancers. Preventive lymphedema measures can be classified into primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention. In this comprehensive review, we will explore the principles and methodologies encompassing lymphatic microsurgical preventive healing approach (LYMPHA), LVA, lymphaticolymphatic anastomosis (LLA), VLNT, and lymph-interpositional-flap transfer (LIFT). By evaluating the advantages and limitations of these techniques, we aim to equip surgeons with the necessary knowledge to effectively address patients at high risk of developing lymphedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Mingfa Sun
- Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Changi General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takumi Yamamoto
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Attalla P, Becker M, Clark RC, Reid CM, Brazio PS. We Are Not Speaking the Same Language: Current Procedural Terminology Coding and Provision of Care in Lymphatic Reconstruction. Ann Plast Surg 2024; 92:S310-S314. [PMID: 38689411 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000003823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes provide a uniform language for medical billing, but specific codes have not been assigned for lymphatic reconstruction techniques. The authors hypothesized that inadequate codes would contribute to heterogeneous coding practices and reimbursement challenges, ultimately limiting surgeons' ability to treat patients. METHODS A 22-item virtual questionnaire was offered to 959 members of the American Society of Reconstructive Microsurgeons to assess the volume of lymphatic reconstruction procedures performed, CPT codes used for each procedure, and challenges related to coding and providing care. RESULTS The survey was completed by 66 board-certified/board-eligible plastic surgeons (6.9%), who unanimously agreed that lymphatic surgery is integral to cancer care, with 86.4% indicating that immediate lymphatic reconstruction should be offered after lymphadenectomy. Most performed lymphovenous bypass, immediate lymphatic reconstruction, liposuction, and vascularized lymph node transfer.Respondents reported that available CPT codes failed to reflect procedural scope. A wide variety of CPT codes was used to report each type of procedure. Insurance coverage problems led to 69.7% of respondents forgoing operations and 32% reducing treatment offerings. Insurance coverage and CPT codes were identified as significant barriers to care by 98.5% and 95.5% of respondents, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Respondents unanimously agreed on the importance of lymphatic reconstruction in cancer care, and most identified inadequate CPT codes as causing billing issues, which hindered their ability to offer surgical treatment. Appropriate and specific CPT codes are necessary to ensure accuracy and consistency of reporting and ultimately to improve patient access to care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Miriam Becker
- UC San Diego School of Medicine, Division of Plastic Surgery, La Jolla
| | | | - Chris M Reid
- UC San Diego School of Medicine, Division of Plastic Surgery, La Jolla
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Ng ZY, Chalhoub X, Furniss D. Surgical Treatment of Lymphedema in the Upper Extremity. Hand Clin 2024; 40:283-290. [PMID: 38553099 DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2023.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
The advent of supermicrosurgery has led to an increasing interest in the surgical management of lymphedema through the reconstruction of the lymphatic network, that is, the physiologic approach. Broadly, this can be divided into 2 main techniques: lymphaticovenous anastomosis and lymph node transfer. In the United Kingdom, the British Lymphology Society does not provide any recommendations on surgical management. Moreover, surgical treatment of lymphedema is not widely practiced within the National Health Service due to low-certainty evidence. Herein, we discuss our experience in physiologic reconstruction for lymphedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Yang Ng
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Headley Way, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Xavier Chalhoub
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Royal Free Hospital, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, Pond Street, London, NW3 2QG, United Kingdom
| | - Dominic Furniss
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Windmill Road, Oxford, OX3 7LD, United Kingdom.
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21
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Le NK, Weinstein B, Parikh J, Coomar LA, Wainwright D, Liu L, Mammadova J, Tavares T, Panetta NJ. Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction in 77 Consecutive Breast Cancer Patients: 2-year Follow-up. J Reconstr Microsurg 2024; 40:262-267. [PMID: 37579782 DOI: 10.1055/a-2153-2203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is a cyclical, progressive disease that begins at the time of axillary dissection and worsens in the setting of adjuvant oncologic therapies. The paradigm of lymphedema management in these patients is shifting from therapeutic surgeries and decongestive therapy to preventative surgery with immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR). METHODS After institutional review board approval, a prospective database was maintained of all patients undergoing ILR. Patients were excluded if they had preoperative lymphedema or expired during the study period. All ILR were performed by the senior author. A control group was established with standardized physician delivered phone surveys of patients who had axillary dissection for breast cancer (same oncologic surgeon cohort) prior to the implementation of ILR at the same institution. The study and control groups were matched based on history of adjuvant radiation and body mass index. RESULTS A cohort of patients between 2016 and 2019 with 2 years of follow-up after undergoing ILR (77 patients) were matched with those who did not undergo lymphatic reconstruction (94 patients). The incidence of lymphedema in the study group undergoing ILR was 10% (N = 8). In comparison, the incidence in the cohort who did not undergo lymphatic reconstruction was 38% (N = 36; p < 0.01). Patients with ILR had 92% lower odds of developing lymphedema (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION ILR can significantly reduce the risk of developing BRCL in high-risk patients at 2 years of follow-up. Patients receiving adjuvant radiation therapy are more likely to develop BCRL after ILR compared with those who do not. Ongoing studies include investigation aimed at identifying patients most at risk for the development of BRCL to help target intervention as well as elucidate factors that contribute to the success of ILR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole K Le
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
| | - Brielle Weinstein
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
| | - Jeegan Parikh
- Global Communicable Diseases, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
| | - Lokesh A Coomar
- Department of Surgery, Center for Anatomical Science and Education, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - D'Arcy Wainwright
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
| | - Langfeier Liu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
| | - Jamila Mammadova
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
| | - Tina Tavares
- Department of Women's Oncology, Breast Program, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Nicholas J Panetta
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
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22
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Ahmed S, Hassanein AH, Lester ME, Manghelli J, Fisher C, Imeokparia F, Ludwig K, Fan B. Trends in Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction. Cureus 2024; 16:e59194. [PMID: 38807806 PMCID: PMC11131141 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.59194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and objective Immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR) is emerging as a useful adjunct after axillary lymph node dissection (ALND), leading to a decrease in lymphedema rates from 30 to 3-13% in breast cancer patients. ILR requires coordination between two surgical specialties for oncologic ALND and microsurgical axillary lymphatic anastomosis. This study aimed to assess the trends in the frequency of ILR performed after ALND at our institution. Methods This study involved a retrospective review of breast cancer patients undergoing ALND with and without ILR at our institution (2017-2022). Data on patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and treatments received were gathered and analyzed. Results A total of 316 patients underwent ALND at our institution and 30.7% (97/316) of them received ILR. There was no significant difference in clinical breast cancer stages between patients who underwent ALND with or without ILR (p>0.05). Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was given to 51.1% (112/219) of patients with ALND only compared to 60.8% (59/97) of patients who underwent ALND with ILR (p=0.09). All patients received adjuvant radiation therapy. ILR was performed after ALND in 4.2% (2/47) in 2017, 25.8% (3/58) in 2018, 17.6% (12/68) in 2019, 35% (21/60) in 2020, 56.9% (41/72) in 2021, and 54.5% (6/11) in 2022. When comparing the first year of the ILR program with the last year of the study period, the odds ratio of receiving ILR after ALND was 1.8 (p=0.04). Conclusions The frequency of performing ILR after ALND in breast cancer patients at our institution witnessed a substantial increase during the study period. The implementation of an established ILR program at an institution can increase procedure uptake accompanied by continued growth in utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mary E Lester
- Plastic Surgery, Indiana University, Indianapolis, USA
| | | | - Carla Fisher
- Surgical Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, USA
| | | | | | - Betty Fan
- Breast Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, USA
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23
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Haravu PN, Shakir A, Jackson K, Alva D, Feldman J, Sisco M, Seth AK. Establishment and Feasibility of an Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction Program in a Community Health System. Ann Surg Oncol 2024; 31:672-680. [PMID: 37938474 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-023-14521-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) remains a significant post-surgical complication of breast cancer treatment. Immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR) at the time of axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) has shown promise in preventing BCRL. While the primary literature supporting ILR comes from academic institutions, the majority of breast cancer care in the USA occurs in the community setting. This study evaluated a preventative lymphedema program performing ILR at a community health system. PATIENTS AND METHODS A prospective database including all patients who underwent ALND with concurrently attempted ILR from 2019 to 2021 was retrospectively reviewed. The historical benchmark lymphedema rate was calculated through retrospective review of electronic medical records for all patients who underwent ALND without ILR from 2011 to 2021. RESULTS Ninety patients underwent ALND with ILR, of which ILR was successful in 69 (76.7%). ILR was more likely to be aborted in smokers (p < 0.05) and those with fewer lymphatic channels (p < 0.05) or a higher body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.08). Patients with successful versus aborted ILR had lower lymphedema rates (10.9% versus 66.7%, p < 0.01) and improved Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores (8.7 versus 19.8, p = 0.25), and lower lymphedema rates than the historical benchmark (10.9% versus 50.2%, p < 0.01). Among patients with successful ILR, older patients were more likely to develop lymphedema (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Successful ILR after ALND significantly reduced the lymphedema rate when compared with patients with aborted ILR and our institution's historical benchmark. Our experience supports the efficacy of ILR and highlights the feasibility of ILR within a community health system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranav N Haravu
- Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Afaaf Shakir
- Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Katherine Jackson
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Duanny Alva
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Joseph Feldman
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Mark Sisco
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Akhil K Seth
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, USA.
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Alarcón PZ, Torrano L, Ibarra A, Garrido MF, Playa GP, Masia J. Prophylactic lymphedema surgery in lower limb soft tissue sarcomas: A clinical paradigm in a promising field. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2024; 88:524-534. [PMID: 38113721 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2023.11.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Oncological treatments, such as radiotherapy and surgery, are high-risk factors for the development of secondary lymphedema in the upper and lower limbs, as well as the genitalia. Prophylactic lymphedema surgery (PLS) has previously demonstrated promising results in reducing secondary lymphedema in breast cancer and urogenital cancer patients. We conducted a study to adapt this principle for patients with lower-extremity sarcomas. MATERIAL AND METHODS Inclusion criteria included patients with tumors on the medial aspect of the thigh and leg and tumor size larger than 5 cm. Group A (19 patients) comprised a prospective cohort (2020-2023) in which a PLS protocol was executed. Lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) was performed when lymphatic channels were interrupted due to tumor resection, intraoperatively verified by indocyanine green. Lymph node transfer was employed exclusively in cases involving preoperative radiotherapy and inguinal lymph node resection. Measurements were collected both preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Group B (26 patients) constituted a retrospective cohort (2017-2020) without PLS reconstruction, where the prevalence of lymphedema was determined. RESULTS In total, we enrolled 45 patients with soft tissue sarcomas located on the inner aspect of the thigh and leg (26 in the control group vs. 19 in the prophylactic group). In the control group, lymphedema was observed in 10 out of 27 patients (37.04%). In the prophylactic group, two patients exhibited signs of lower-extremity lymphedema (2/19, 10.52%) with a median follow-up of 14.15 months (6 months-33months), demonstrating statistically significant differences between the two groups (p = 0.02931). CONCLUSIONS PLS for lower limb soft tissue sarcomas shows promising results, although it is premature to reach solid conclusions. Multicentre studies, standardization of criteria, larger sample sizes and longer-term follow-up are imperative for further validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paúl Zamora Alarcón
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hospital de la Sant Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Torrano
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hospital de la Sant Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Andree Ibarra
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hospital de la Sant Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Fernández Garrido
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hospital de la Sant Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Pons Playa
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hospital de la Sant Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Masia
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hospital de la Sant Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Ovchinnikova IV, Gimranov AM, Tazieva GR, Busygin MA, Korunova EG. [Preventive axillary lymphovenous anastomoses simultaneously with lymph node dissection in the treatment of breast cancer for prevention of lymphedema of the upper limb (LYMPHA technique)]. Khirurgiia (Mosk) 2024:42-47. [PMID: 38380463 DOI: 10.17116/hirurgia202402242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the effect the LYMPHA technique on the incidence of upper limb lymphedema in patients with breast cancer after complete axillary lymph node dissection. MATERIAL AND METHODS There were 89 patients with breast cancer and signs of metastatic lesion of axillary lymph nodes who underwent complete axillary lymph dissection. In group 1 (41 patients), the LYMPHA technique was used simultaneously with lymph node dissection; in group 2 (48 patients) - lymph node dissection alone. RESULTS The follow-up period was 1 year. The LYMPHA technique prolonged surgery and decreased duration of postoperative lymphorrhea. The incidence of upper limb lymphedema was 9.8% and 22.9%, respectively. CONCLUSION The LYMPHA technique was effective for prevention of upper limb lymphedema after complete axillary lymph node dissection in the treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - A M Gimranov
- Sigal Republican Clinical Oncology Dispensary, Kazan, Russia
| | - G R Tazieva
- Sigal Republican Clinical Oncology Dispensary, Kazan, Russia
| | - M A Busygin
- Sigal Republican Clinical Oncology Dispensary, Kazan, Russia
| | - E G Korunova
- Sigal Republican Clinical Oncology Dispensary, Kazan, Russia
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Goel P, Arora JS, Lanier B. Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction Using a Handheld Fluorescence Imaging Device. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2023; 11:e5480. [PMID: 38111725 PMCID: PMC10727601 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000005480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Background Immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR) has traditionally required a fluorescent-capable microscope to identify lymphatic channels used to create a lymphaticovenous bypass (LVB). Herein, a new alternative method is described, identifying lymphatic channels using a commercially available handheld fluorescence imaging device. Methods This was a single-center study of consecutive patients who underwent ILR over a 1-year period at a tertiary medical center. Intradermal injection of fluorescent indocyanine green dye was performed intraoperatively after axillary or inguinal lymphadenectomy. A handheld fluorescent imaging device (SPY-PHI, Stryker) rather than a fluorescent-capable microscope was used to identify transected lymphatic channels. Data regarding preoperative, intraoperative, and outcome variables were collected and analyzed. Results The handheld fluorescent imaging device was successfully able to identify transected lymphatic channels in all cases (n = 15). A nonfluorescent-capable microscope was used to construct the LVB in 14 cases. Loupes were used in one case. In 13 cases, ILR was unilateral. In two cases, bilateral ILR was performed in the lower extremities. All upper extremity cases were secondary to breast cancer (n = 7). Lower extremity cases (n = 8) included extramammary Paget disease of the penis, ovarian cancer, vulvar squamous cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma of unknown origin, soft tissue sarcomas, cutaneous melanoma, and porocarcinoma. Conclusions ILR, using indocyanine green injection with a handheld fluorescent imaging device, is both safe and effective. This method for intraoperative identification of lymphatic channels was successful, and LVB creation was completed in all cases. This approach makes ILR feasible when a fluorescent-capable microscope is unavailable, broadening access to more patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedram Goel
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, University of California, Irvine, Orange, Calif
| | - Jagmeet S. Arora
- University of California Irvine School of Medicine, Irvine, Calif
| | - Brock Lanier
- From the Department of Plastic Surgery, University of California, Irvine, Orange, Calif
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Lin YS, Kuan CH, Lo C, Tsai LW, Wu CH, Huang CH, Yeong EK, Tai HC, Huang CS. Is Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction on Breast Cancer Patients Oncologically Safe? A Preliminary Study. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2023; 11:e5385. [PMID: 37941816 PMCID: PMC10629743 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000005385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Background In breast cancer patients receiving axillary lymph node dissection (ALND), immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR) with lymphovenous anastomosis is an emerging technique for reducing the risk of arm lymphedema. However, the oncologic safety of surgically diverting lymphatic ducts directly into venules in a node-positive axilla is still a concern of inadvertently inducing metastasis of remaining cancer cells. This study aimed to assess the oncologic safety of ILR. Methods From January 2020 to January 2022, 95 breast cancer patients received ALND, and 45 of them also received ILR. Patients with recurrent cancer, with follow-up less than 12 months, and with missed data were excluded. Variables were compared between ILR and non-ILR groups, and the outcome of interest was the rate of distant recurrence after follow-up for at least 1 year. Results Thirty-four patients in the ILR group and 32 patients in the non-ILR group fulfilled the inclusion criteria for analysis. No statistically significant difference was noted between groups in terms of age, body mass index, type of breast surgery, pathologic cancer staging, histologic type and grade of breast cancer, molecular subtypes, frequency of axillary lymph node metastasis, or adjuvant therapy. For the patients receiving follow-up for at least 1 year, no statistically significant difference was found in terms of distant recurrence rates between ILR and non-ILR groups (P = 0.44). Conclusion For breast cancer patients receiving ALND, ILR with lymphovenous anastomosis is oncologically safe, within an average follow-up period of 21 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Sheng Lin
- From the Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital Yunlin Branch, Yunlin County, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Hsiang Kuan
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chiao Lo
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Wei Tsai
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Surgical Oncology, National Taiwan University Cancer Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Hui Wu
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chieh-Huei Huang
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Eng-Kean Yeong
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hao-Chih Tai
- From the Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital Yunlin Branch, Yunlin County, Taiwan
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chiun-Sheng Huang
- From the Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital Yunlin Branch, Yunlin County, Taiwan
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
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Granoff MD, Fleishman A, Shillue K, Johnson AR, Ross J, Lee BT, Teller P, James TA, Singhal D. A 4-Year Institutional Experience of Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction. Plast Reconstr Surg 2023; 152:773e-778e. [PMID: 36877759 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000010381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Up to one in three patients may go on to develop breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) after treatment. Immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR) has been shown in early studies to reduce the risk of BCRL, but long-term outcomes are limited because of its recent introduction and institutions' differing eligibility requirements. This study evaluated the incidence of BCRL in a cohort that underwent ILR over the long term. METHODS A retrospective review of all patients referred for ILR at the authors' institution from September of 2016 through September of 2020 was performed. Patients with preoperative measurements, a minimum of 6 months of follow-up data, and at least one completed lymphovenous bypass were identified. Medical records were reviewed for demographics, cancer treatment data, intraoperative management, and lymphedema incidence. RESULTS A total of 186 patients with unilateral node-positive breast cancer underwent axillary nodal surgery and an attempt at ILR over the study period. Ninety patients underwent successful ILR and met all eligibility criteria, with a mean patient age of 54 ± 12.1 years and median body mass index of 26.6 kg/m 2 [interquartile range (IQR), 24.0 to 30.7 kg/m 2 ]. The median number of lymph nodes removed was 14 (IQR, eight to 19). Median follow-up was 17 months (range, 6 to 49 months). Eighty-seven percent of patients underwent adjuvant radiotherapy, and among them, 97% received regional lymph node irradiation. The overall rate of lymphedema was 9% at the end of the study period. CONCLUSIONS With the use of strict follow-up guidelines over the long term, the authors' findings support that ILR at the time of axillary lymph node dissection is an effective procedure that reduces the risk of BCRL in a high-risk patient population. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic, IV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kathy Shillue
- Department of Rehabilitation Services, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School
| | - Anna Rose Johnson
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis
| | | | - Bernard T Lee
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
| | - Paige Teller
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Maine Medical Center
| | | | - Dhruv Singhal
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
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Spiegel DY, Willcox J, Friedman R, Kinney J, Singhal D, Recht A. A Prospective Study of Radiation Therapy After Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction: Analysis of the Dosimetric Implications. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2023; 117:446-451. [PMID: 37141983 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) and regional nodal irradiation (RNI) are the primary causes of breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). Immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR) is a novel surgical procedure that reduces the incidence of BCRL after ALND. The ILR anastomosis is placed in a location thought to be outside the standard radiation therapy fields to prevent radiation-induced fibrosis of the reconstructed vessels; however, there is excess risk of BCRL from RNI even after ILR. The purpose of this study was to understand the radiation dose distribution in relation to the ILR anastomosis. METHODS AND MATERIALS This prospective study included 13 patients treated with ALND/ILR from October 2020 to June 2022. A twirl clip deployed during surgery was used to identify the ILR anastomosis site during radiation treatment planning. All cases were planned using a 3D-conformal technique with opposed tangents and an obliqued supraclavicular (SCV) field. RESULTS RNI deliberately targeted axillary Levels 1 to 3 and the SCV nodal region in 4 patients and was limited to Level 3 and SCV nodes in 9 patients. The ILR clip was located in Level 1 in 12 patients and Level 2 in 1 patient. In patients with radiation directed at only Level 3 and SCV, the ILR clip was still within the radiation field in 5 of these patients and received a median dose of 3939 cGy (range, 2025-4961 cGy). The median dose to the ILR clip was 3939 cGy (range, 139-4961 cGy) for the entire cohort. The median dose was 4275 cGy (range, 2025-4961 cGy) when the ILR clip was within any radiation field and 233 cGy (range, 139-280 cGy) when the clip was outside all fields. CONCLUSION The ILR anastomosis was often directly irradiated with 3D-conformal techniques and received substantial radiation dose, even when the site was not deliberately targeted. Long-term analysis will help determine whether minimizing radiation dose to the anastomosis will decrease BCRL rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daphna Y Spiegel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Julia Willcox
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Rosie Friedman
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jacquelyn Kinney
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Dhruv Singhal
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Abram Recht
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Montagna G, Barrio AV. Managing the Morbidity: Individualizing Risk Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options for Upper Extremity Lymphedema. Surg Oncol Clin N Am 2023; 32:705-724. [PMID: 37714638 DOI: 10.1016/j.soc.2023.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
In the setting where breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) remains a feared and common complication of breast cancer, here we review important factors for the development, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of BCRL. We find that race/ethnicity affect BCRL development risk, that future studies should focus on understanding the biological reasons behind the increased susceptibility of certain racial minorities to BCRL, that surveillance, early detection, exercise programs, and arm compression can reduce the risk of BCRL, and that surgical techniques to preserve and restore lymphatic drainage being evaluated in randomized trials may become transformative in reducing BCRL risk for high-risk patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Montagna
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 300 East 66th Street, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Andrea V Barrio
- Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 300 East 66th Street, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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Coriddi M, Dayan J, Bloomfield E, McGrath L, Diwan R, Monge J, Gutierrez J, Brown S, Boe L, Mehrara B. Efficacy of Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction to Decrease Incidence of Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema: Preliminary Results of Randomized Controlled Trial. Ann Surg 2023; 278:630-637. [PMID: 37314177 PMCID: PMC10527595 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0000000000005952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To conduct a randomized controlled trial (RCT) on the efficacy of immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR) for decreasing the incidence of breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) after axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). BACKGROUND Despite encouraging results in small studies, an appropriately powered RCT on ILR has not been performed. METHODS Women undergoing ALND for breast cancer were randomized in the operating room 1:1 to either ILR, if technically feasible, or no ILR (control). The ILR group underwent lymphatic anastomosis to a regional vein using microsurgical techniques; control group had no repair and cut lymphatics were ligated. Relative volume change (RVC), bioimpedance, quality of life (QoL), and compression use were evaluated at baseline and every 6 months postoperatively up to 24 months. Indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography was performed at baseline and 12 and 24 months postoperatively. The primary outcome was the incidence of BCRL, defined as ≥10% RVC from baseline in the affected extremity at 12-, 18-, or 24-month follow-up. RESULTS Of 72 patients randomized to ILR and 72 to control from January 2020 to March 2023, our preliminary analysis includes 99 patients with 12-month follow-up, 70 with 18-month follow-up, and 40 with 24-month follow-up. The cumulative incidence of BCRL was 9.5% in the ILR group and 32% in the control group ( P =0.014). The ILR group had lower bioimpedance values, decreased compression usage, better lymphatic function on ICG lymphography, and better QoL than the control group. CONCLUSIONS Preliminary results of our RCT show that ILR after ALND decreases BCRL incidence. Our goal is to finish the accrual of 174 patients with 24-month follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Coriddi
- Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Joseph Dayan
- Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Emily Bloomfield
- Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Leslie McGrath
- Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Richard Diwan
- Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Jasmine Monge
- Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Julia Gutierrez
- Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Stav Brown
- Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Lillian Boe
- Biostatistics Service, Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Babak Mehrara
- Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
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Lin YS, Kuan CH, Tsai LW, Wu CH, Huang CH, Yeong EK, Tai HC, Huang CS. The effect of immediate lymphatic reconstruction on the post-operative drain output after axillary lymph node dissection for breast cancer: A retrospective comparative study. Microsurgery 2023; 43:555-562. [PMID: 36762663 DOI: 10.1002/micr.31007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) for breast cancer has been considered to be associated with a variety of complications, such as excessive postoperative wound drainage, prolonged drain placement, or seroma formation in the short term, or arm lymphedema in the long run. Immediate lymphedema reconstruction (ILR) has been proposed to reduce the occurrence of arm lymphedema by anastomosing the transected arm lymphatics to nearby branches of the axillary vein immediately after ALND. This study aims to demonstrate that ILR can also reduce the postoperative drainage amount. PATIENTS AND METHODS Between April 2020 and January 2022, a total of 76 breast cancer patients receiving ALND were reviewed. Forty four of them also received ILR immediately after ALND. The assignment of ILR surgery was non-random, based on patients' willingness and plastic surgeons' availability. The lymphatic vessels in the axillary wound were anastomosed with nearby terminal branches of the axillary vein under surgical microscope. Patients' characteristics, including age, body mass index (BMI), neoadjuvant therapy, type of breast surgery, the occurrence of seroma formation, number of removed lymph nodes, number of positive nodes, and the drainage amount from the operative wounds were compared between ILR and non-ILR groups. RESULTS No statistically significant difference was noted between groups in terms of age (56.5 ± 9.8 vs. 60.9 ± 10.7, p = .09), BMI (22.6 ± 3.7 vs. 23.7 ± 3.8, p = .27), type of breast surgery (p = .32), the occurrence of seroma formation (p = 1.0), the likelihood of receiving neoadjuvant therapy (p = .12), number of lymph nodes removed (17.5 ± 7.6 vs. 17.4 ± 8.3, p = .96), or number of positive nodes on final pathology (3.7 ± 5.4 vs. 4.8 ± 8.5, p = .53) except the ILR group had statistically significantly less drainage amount than non-ILR group (39.3 ± 2.6 vs. 48.3 ± 3.7, p = .046). CONCLUSION For breast cancer patients receiving ALND, the immediate lymphatic reconstruction can reduce the postoperative drainage amount from the operative wound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Sheng Lin
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital Yunlin Branch, Yunlin County, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Hsiang Kuan
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Wei Tsai
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Surgical Oncology, National Taiwan University Cancer Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Hui Wu
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chieh-Huei Huang
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Eng-Kean Yeong
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hao-Chih Tai
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chiun-Sheng Huang
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
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Nguyen D, Dionyssiou D, Zaitseva TS, Zhou AT, Sue G, Deptula P, Moroz MA, Tabada P, Rockson SG, Paukshto MV, Cheng MH, Huang NF. Development of a rat model of lymphedema and the implantation of a collagen-based medical device for therapeutic intervention. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1214116. [PMID: 37469481 PMCID: PMC10353614 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1214116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Secondary lymphedema is a common condition among cancer survivors, and treatment strategies to prevent or treat lymphedema are in high demand. The development of novel strategies to diagnose or treat lymphedema would benefit from a robust experimental animal model of secondary lymphedema. The purpose of this methods paper is to describe and summarize our experience in developing and characterizing a rat hindlimb model of lymphedema. Here we describe a protocol to induce secondary lymphedema that takes advantage of micro computed tomography imaging for limb volume measurements and visualization of lymph drainage with near infrared imaging. To demonstrate the utility of this preclinical model for studying the therapeutic benefit of novel devices, we apply this animal model to test the efficacy of a biomaterials-based implantable medical device.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dung Nguyen
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | | | | | - Anna T. Zhou
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Gloria Sue
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Peter Deptula
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Maxim A. Moroz
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Peter Tabada
- Fibralign Corp, Union City, Thessaloniki, CA, United States
| | - Stanley G. Rockson
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | | | | | - Ngan F. Huang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
- Center for Tissue Regeneration, Repair and Restoration, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States, United States
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Wainwright D, Weinstein B, Le NK, Parikh J, Panetta NJ. Reliable Location of Upper Extremity Lymphatic Channels for Use in Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction. Ann Plast Surg 2023; 90:S391-S394. [PMID: 37332210 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000003452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is a limiting sequelae of breast cancer treatment that may negatively impact 30% to 50% of high-risk breast cancer survivors. Risk factors for development of BCRL include axillary lymph node dissection (ALND), and recently, axillary reverse lymphatic mapping and immediate lymphovenous reconstruction (ILR) at time of ALND have been implemented to prevent BCRL. Reliable anatomy of neighboring venules has been commented on in the literature; however, little information exists about anatomical location of local lymphatic channels amenable for bypass. METHODS After institutional review board approval, patients who underwent ALND with axillary reverse lymphatic mapping and ILR at a tertiary cancer center from November 2021 to August 2022 were applicable for this study. The location and number of lymphatic channels used for ILR were identified and measured intraoperatively with the arm abducted to 90 degrees and soft tissue under no tension. Four measurements were taken to localize each lymphatic and were based on relationship with reliable anatomic landmarks including 4th rib, anterior axillary line, and lower border of the pectoralis major muscle. Demographics, oncologic treatments, intraoperative factors, and outcomes were prospectively maintained. RESULTS Twenty-seven patients met inclusion for this study by August 2022 with a total of 86 lymphatic channels identified. Patients were on average 50 ± 12 years old with a body mass index of 30 ± 6 and had an average of 1 vein and 3 identifiable lymphatic channels amenable to bypass. Seventy percent of lymphatic channels were found in a cluster of 2 or more channels. The average horizontal location was 4.5 ± 1.4 cm lateral to the 4th rib. The average vertical location was 1.3 ± 0.9 cm from the superior border of the 4th rib. CONCLUSIONS These data comment upon intraoperatively identified and consistent location of upper extremity lymphatic channels used for ILR. These lymphatic channels are often found in clusters with 2 or more lymphatic channels at the same location. Such insight may aid in easier intraoperative identification of amenable vessels for the unexperienced surgeon, decrease in intraoperative time, and higher success of ILR.
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Affiliation(s)
- D'Arcy Wainwright
- From the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL
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Lustig DB, Temple-Oberle C, Bouchard-Fortier A, Quan ML. Incorporating Lymphovenous Anastomosis in Clinically Node-Positive Women Receiving Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: A Shared Decision-Making Model and Nuanced Approached to the Axilla. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:4041-4051. [PMID: 37185419 PMCID: PMC10137272 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30040306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Lymphedema remains a risk for 13–34% of breast cancer patients who require an axillary dissection (ALND) and radiation. Immediate lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) may mitigate lymphedema by up to 30% by restoring the physiologic lymphatic drainage immediately after ALND. Currently, completion of ALND (cALND) versus radiation after neoadjuvant therapy (NAC) is being addressed by the Alliance A11202 trial, leaving a paucity of data to guide practice. Our study describes the implementation process of LVA into clinical practice after NAC for node-positive breast cancer in the current clinical context. Methods: We reviewed a prospective database of LVA in node-positive patients (cT1-4,Nany) who received NAC followed by axillary surgery ± immediate LVA from October 2021 to 2022. The evolution of the surgical approach is described. Specifically, patients who downstaged to clinically negative nodes post-NAC were offered targeted SLNB with dual-tracer and intraoperative frozen section (FS). Patients were reminded that the standard of care for any node positive is cALND. Immediate cALND with LVA was performed for grossly positive nodes or all positive SLNs; cALND was omitted for those with negative SLNs. For a microscopic disease on a frozen section, a shared decision was made pre-operatively, given each patient’s differing valuations of the benefit and risks of cALND ± LVA versus no cALND with planned regional radiation postoperatively. LVA was offered as an option as part of our institutional evaluation of the procedure. Results: A total of 15 patients were included; the mean age was 49.9 (range 32–75) with stage IIA to IIIB breast cancer. Of these, 6 (40%) were triple negative, 5 (33.3%) HER-2 positive, and 4 (26.7%) ER/PR+ HER-2 negative. There were 13 women (86.7%) who had persistent axillary adenopathy based on clinical and/or ultrasound assessment, with 8 patients proceeding directly to ALND with LVA. Among these patients, 3 (37.5%) had pathologic nodal disease, and 5 (62.5%) were node negative, confirming the limitations of pre-operative imaging. As a result, the subsequent 7 (46.7%) underwent targeted SLNB with FS, with 3 patients (42.9%) avoiding an ALND as a result of a negative FS. A total of 4 patients (57.1%) had 1 or more positive lymph nodes on FS: 3 proceeded with a cALND and LVA, and 1 patient (14.2%) opted for no cALND based on a pre-operative discussion and received adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy. Of the 11 patients who underwent ALND and LVA, 1 patient (9.1%) developed lymphedema at 6.9 months following their surgery. The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of pre-operative US were 46.7%, 85.7%, and 12.5% and intraoperative FS were 88.0%, 72.7%, and 100%, respectively. Conclusions: As adjuvant nodal radiation and systemic therapy continue to improve, the benefit of a cALND in patients with the limited residual disease remains unclear as we await the outcomes from clinical trials. In the era of clinical uncertainty, we propose a nuanced approach to the axilla by utilizing a shared decision model with patients, incorporating targeted SLNB with FS and completion node dissection when required and desired by the patient, coupled with LVA in a simple stepwise treatment pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Ben Lustig
- Department of Surgery, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, AB T2N 2T9, Canada
- University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Claire Temple-Oberle
- Department of Surgery, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, AB T2N 2T9, Canada
- University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Antoine Bouchard-Fortier
- Department of Surgery, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, AB T2N 2T9, Canada
- University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - May Lynn Quan
- Department of Surgery, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, AB T2N 2T9, Canada
- University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
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Roman MM, Delrue P, Karler C, Del Marmol V, Bourgeois P. Indo-cyanine green administration to identify loss of lymph after axillary lymph node dissection. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1045495. [PMID: 36994214 PMCID: PMC10040774 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1045495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundNear infrared fluorescence imaging with Indocyanine Green (ICG) is now used for the imaging of lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels. In this work, we investigated the impact of its pre-operative and peri-operative administration on our ability to detect axillary lymphatic loss after breast cancer surgery.MethodsOne subcutaneous injection of ICG was administered in the ipsilateral hand of 109 women who were scheduled to have either a mastectomy with total axillary lymph node dissection (CALND) or a lumpectomy with selective lymphadenectomy (SLN) the day before (n = 53) or the same day of surgery (n = 56). The lymph leakages were assessed by means of the application of a compress in the operated armpit and by the presence or absence of fluorescence on it, as well as in the post-operative axillary drains.ResultsThe compress was fluorescent in 28% of SLN patients and 71% of CALND patients. The liquids in the axillary drains were also fluorescent in 71% of patients with CALND. No statistical significance was observed between the ICG injection groups. The association between compressive fluorescent and the presence of fluorescence in the axillary drains is significant in the pre-operative subgroup and in the whole group.ConclusionOur research demonstrates that lymphatic leaks aid in the development of seromas and calls into question the effectiveness of the ligatures and/or cauterizations used during surgery. A prospective, multicentric, randomized trial should be conducted to verify the efficacy of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirela Mariana Roman
- Department of Mammo-Pelvic Surgery, Institute Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Mirela Mariana Roman,
| | - Pauline Delrue
- Department of Mammo-Pelvic Surgery, Institute Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Clarence Karler
- Department of Anesthesia-Algologia Hospital Moliere, Université Libre de Bruxells, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Véronique Del Marmol
- Service of Dermatology, Hospital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pierre Bourgeois
- Service of Dermatology, Hospital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Services of Nuclear Medicine, Institut Jules Bordet and Hôpitaux Iris Sud- Iris Ziekenhuizen Zuid (HIS-IZZ) Hospitals, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Multi-disciplinary Clinic of Lymphology, Institute Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Service of Vascular Surgery, Institut Jules Bordet and Hôpitaux Iris Sud- Iris Ziekenhuizen Zuid (HIS-IZZ) Hospitals, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
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Wan R, Hussain A, Kuruoglu D, Houdek MT, Moran SL. Prophylactic lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) for preventing lymphedema after sarcoma resection in the lower limb: A report of three cases and literature review. Microsurgery 2023; 43:273-280. [PMID: 36226524 DOI: 10.1002/micr.30975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Patients with soft tissue tumors of the lower extremities are at greater risk to develop postoperative disruption of lymphatic vessels. Currently, there is no widely effective cure for lymphatic dysfunction. Therefore, the best strategy is to prevent it and reconstruct efficient drainage as soon as the original pathway is damaged. We present a report of three prophylactic LVA cases after sarcoma resection in the lower limb, and a literature review to show the feasibility of prophylactic LVAs. The patients were 35, 73, and 77 years old, respectively, at the time of the procedure. All three patients had sarcoma in the medial thigh and underwent radiation therapy before the surgery. The locations of the LVAs include the medial thigh and medial and lateral calf. During the surgery, methylene blue and/or indocyanine green were injected to identify lymphatic vessels. Postoperative recovery was uneventful immediately after the surgery. At follow-up visits, all three patients reported improved functions with no significant swelling in the lower limb. One patient experienced a surgical wound infection that resolved after antibiotic admission. Two patients had a history of cardiac diseases, a major risk factor for developing postoperative lymphedema, but these two patients did not develop lymphedema with the treatment of prophylactic LVAs. These results suggest that prophylactic LVA may be an effective strategy to prevent secondary lymphedema after sarcoma resection. Further investigation is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rou Wan
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Arif Hussain
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Doga Kuruoglu
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Matthew T Houdek
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Steven L Moran
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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Levy AS, Murphy AI, Ishtihar S, Peysakhovich A, Taback B, Grant RT, Ascherman JA, Feldman S, Rohde CH. Lymphatic Microsurgical Preventive Healing Approach for the Primary Prevention of Lymphedema: A 4-Year Follow-Up. Plast Reconstr Surg 2023; 151:413-420. [PMID: 36696330 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000009857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) remains the leading cause of lymphedema nationally, and there is still no cure for the disease. The lymphatic microsurgical preventive healing approach (LYMPHA) is a promising option for lymphedema prophylaxis in patients undergoing ALND, but long-term outcomes of the LYMPHA are not well established. METHODS The authors conducted a retrospective review of patients undergoing ALND at their center from November of 2012 to November of 2016 and assembled two cohorts, those who received the LYMPHA and those who did not (non-LYMPHA). Patient data were collected to evaluate lymphedema risk and long-term lymphedema incidence of each group. RESULTS Forty-five women were included in both our LYMPHA and non-LYMPHA cohorts. Mean body mass index (27.7 kg/m2 versus 29.9 kg/m2; P = 0.15) and radiation therapy rates (60.0% versus 68.9%; P = 0.51) did not differ between groups. Non-LYMPHA patients underwent complete mastectomy more frequently than LYMPHA patients (97.8% versus 77.8%; P = 0.007), but had a similar number of nodes removed during ALND (14.4 versus 15.8; P = 0.32). Median follow-up time was greater than 4 years for both LYMPHA and non-LYMPHA groups (57.0 months versus 63.0 months; P = 0.07). Overall, lymphedema incidence was 31.1% in the LYMPHA group and 33.3% in the non-LYMPHA group (P > 0.99). No significant differences in lymphedema incidences were observed between the LYMPHA and non-LYMPHA groups for patients with obesity, patients who received radiation therapy, or patients with obesity who also received radiation therapy (P > 0.05 for all subgroups). CONCLUSIONS The LYMPHA may not prevent lymphedema long-term in patients who undergo ALND. More long-term studies are needed to determine the true potential of the procedure. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic, III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam S Levy
- From the Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | | | | | | | - Bret Taback
- Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Columbia University Irving Medical Center/New York-Presbyterian Hospitaland
| | | | | | - Sheldon Feldman
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine
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Carpenter M, Le J. New Technology for the Breast Surgeon. Surg Clin North Am 2023; 103:107-119. [PMID: 36410344 DOI: 10.1016/j.suc.2022.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
New innovations aid the breast surgeon with better ability to localize tumors using wireless techniques, reduce re-excision rates by intraoperative margin evaluation and perform aesthetically; pleasing, and safe surgeries. In addition to improving oncological outcomes, we can continue to improve the quality of life for our patients through evolving surgeries including nerve-sparing mastectomies, robotic mastectomies, and lymphovascular surgeries (LYMPHA). Our article reviews current and evolving techniques and technology that all breast surgeons should add to his or her armamentarium to provide optimal surgical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Carpenter
- Center for Cancer Prevention and Treatment, St. Joseph Hospital, 1010 W. LaVeta suite 475, Orange, CA 92868, USA; Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Julie Le
- UC San Diego Comprehensive Breast Health, 9400 Campus Point Drive, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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Cobb A, DeSnyder SM. Risk Factors for Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema, Risk Reduction, and Myths about Precautionary Behaviors. CURRENT BREAST CANCER REPORTS 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s12609-023-00474-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Chungsiriwattana W, Kongkunnavat N, Kamnerdnakta S, Hayashi A, Tonaree W. Immediate inguinal lymphaticovenous anastomosis following lymphadenectomy in skin cancer of lower extremities. Asian J Surg 2023; 46:299-305. [PMID: 35414452 DOI: 10.1016/j.asjsur.2022.03.097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Secondary lymphedema following inguinal lymph node dissection in lower extremities skin cancer reduce the patients' quality of life. Immediate lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) at groin is a procedure intended to prevent secondary lymphedema. The data regarding the long-term efficacy and safety of this procedure was limited. Therefore, we evaluated the long-term outcomes of immediate LVA in patients with melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer of the lower extremities. METHODS The retrospective data review of patients with melanoma or squamous cell carcinoma of the lower extremities underwent oncologic tumor resection with groin node dissection between December 2013 and December 2016 was performed. Seven patients underwent immediate LVA (intervention) at groin after node dissection and 22 acted as controls. The occurrence of lymphedema and oncologic outcomes were followed up to 7 years. RESULTS Fifteen patients (51.7%) developed postoperative lymphedema, which were three patients in the intervention group and twelve patients in the control group (p = 0.68). The intervention group had significant lower 2-year (57.1% versus 77.3%) and 5-year overall survival (14.3% versus 54.5%) (p = 0.035). The intervention group had reduced 2-year (28.6% versus 86.4%) and 5-year (28.6% versus 68.2%) Recurrence Free Survival (RFS) (p = 0.013). The intervention group also had reduced 2-year (0% versus 90%) and 5-year (0% versus 70%) Metastasis Free Survival (MFS) (p = 0.003). CONCLUSION Immediate inguinal LVA following groin node dissection in lower extremity skin cancer patients did not reduce the incidence of lymphedema. Unfortunately, it was associated with lower overall survival and an increase in tumor recurrence and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanchalerm Chungsiriwattana
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Natthapong Kongkunnavat
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sirichai Kamnerdnakta
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Warangkana Tonaree
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Friedman-Eldar O, Melnikau S, Tjendra Y, Avisar E. Axillary Reverse Lymphatic Mapping in the Treatment of Axillary Accessory Breast Cancer: A Case Report and Review of Management. Eur J Breast Health 2022; 18:1-5. [DOI: 10.4274/ejbh.galenos.2021.2021-7-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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McEvoy MP, Gomberawalla A, Smith M, Boccardo FM, Holmes D, Djohan R, Thiruchelvam P, Klimberg S, Dietz J, Feldman S. The prevention and treatment of breast cancer- related lymphedema: A review. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1062472. [PMID: 36561522 PMCID: PMC9763870 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1062472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Breast cancer- related lymphedema (BCRL) affects about 3 to 5 million patients worldwide, with about 20,000 per year in the United States. As breast cancer mortality is declining due to improved diagnostics and treatments, the long-term effects of treatment for BCRL need to be addressed. Methods The American Society of Breast Surgeons Lymphatic Surgery Working Group conducted a large review of the literature in order to develop guidelines on BCRL prevention and treatment. This was a comprehensive but not systematic review of the literature. This was inclusive of recent randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and reviews evaluating the prevention and treatment of BCRL. There were 25 randomized clinical trials, 13 systemic reviews and meta-analyses, and 87 observational studies included. Results The findings of our review are detailed in the paper, with each guideline being analyzed with the most recent data that the group found evidence of to suggest these recommendations. Conclusions Prevention and treatment of BCRL involve a multidisciplinary team. Early detection, before clinically apparent, is crucial to prevent irreversible lymphedema. Awareness of risk factors and appropriate practice adjustments to reduce the risk aids are crucial to decrease the progression of lymphedema. The treatment can be costly, time- consuming, and not always effective, and therefore, the overall goal should be prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen P. McEvoy
- Breast Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Montefiore Einstein Center for Cancer Care, Bronx, NY, United States,*Correspondence: Maureen P. McEvoy,
| | - Ameer Gomberawalla
- Department of Surgery, Advocate Medical Group, Oak Lawn, IL, United States
| | - Mark Smith
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Northwell Health System, New Hyde Park, NY, United States
| | | | - Dennis Holmes
- Department of Surgery, Los Angeles Center for Women’s Health, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Risal Djohan
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Paul Thiruchelvam
- Department of Breast Surgery, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Suzanne Klimberg
- Department of Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch(UTMB) Cancer Center, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Jill Dietz
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Sheldon Feldman
- Breast Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Montefiore Einstein Center for Cancer Care, Bronx, NY, United States
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Hara Y, Otsubo R, Shinohara S, Morita M, Kuba S, Matsumoto M, Yamanouchi K, Yano H, Eguchi S, Nagayasu T. Lymphedema After Axillary Lymph Node Dissection in Breast Cancer: Prevalence and Risk Factors-A Single-Center Retrospective Study. Lymphat Res Biol 2022; 20:600-606. [PMID: 35357959 PMCID: PMC9810350 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2021.0033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Lymphedema may develop when axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) injures and obstructs the lymph ducts in the upper limb. In patients with breast cancer, lymphedema is difficult to treat and can cause arm swelling, heaviness, and restricted movement. We aimed to identify the prevalence and risk factors for lymphedema after ALND in patients with breast cancer. Methods and Results: This retrospective study included 175 patients with breast cancer who underwent ALND in the Nagasaki University Hospital, Japan, between 2005 and 2018. Lymphedema was defined as symptomatic arm swelling with a >2-cm difference in the arm circumference between the affected and contralateral arms. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of lymphedema. Surgical and pathological findings were compared between the two groups. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed, including the chi-square test, Student's t-test, and logistic regression analysis. Lymphedema was prevalent in 20% of the study participants, and the mean time interval from surgery to development of lymphedema was 479 days. In the univariate analysis, a body mass index of >26 kg/m2, smoking, radiotherapy (RT), and dissection of >18 axillary lymph nodes (ALNs) significantly increased the risk of lymphedema. In the multivariate analysis, smoking, RT, and dissection of >18 ALNs significantly increased the risk of lymphedema. Conclusions: The prevalence of lymphedema in our study was 20%. Our findings suggest that smoking, RT, and dissection of >18 ALNs are risk factors for lymphedema. Aggressive and empiric ALND might be associated with axillary lymph duct damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Hara
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Ryota Otsubo
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan.,Address correspondence to: Ryota Otsubo, MD, PhD, Department of Surgical Oncology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
| | - Shota Shinohara
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Michi Morita
- Department of Surgery, Nagasaki University Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Sayaka Kuba
- Department of Surgery, Nagasaki University Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Megumi Matsumoto
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Kosho Yamanouchi
- Department of Surgery, Nagasaki University Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yano
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Susumu Eguchi
- Department of Surgery, Nagasaki University Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Takeshi Nagayasu
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
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Boccardo F, Santori G, Villa G, Accogli S, Dessalvi S. Long-term patency of multiple lymphatic-venous anastomoses in cancer-related lymphedema: A single center observational study. Microsurgery 2022; 42:668-676. [PMID: 35916247 DOI: 10.1002/micr.30944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Lymphedema is always initially treated by combined decongestive physiotherapy (CDP). Those cases, refractory to CDP, may be managed by surgical therapy. One of the most used microsurgical procedures is represented by the technique of lymphatic-venous anastomosis (LVA). But very few papers report long term results of LVA. The aim of this study is to assess the long-term patency of multiple lymphatic-venous anastomosis (MLVA) for the treatment of secondary lymphedemas. METHODS From January 2014 to December 2014, 101 patients (mean age: 56.94 ± 8.98 years; female/male: 86/15) affected by secondary cancer-related lymphedema (38 lower and 63 upper limbs) were treated by MLVA. All lymphedemas had previously been treated by conservative therapy without sustained results. Many patients (78%) had 1-3 episodes of acute lymphangitis/year. Lymphoscintigraphy, venous duplex-ultrasonography, and abdominal or axillary ultrasound investigation were performed preoperatively. MLVA patency was assessed by the lymphatic transport index (LyTI) and lymphoscintigraphic pattern. RESULTS At 1 year after surgery, excess volume reduction was 75%-90% in the early stage II secondary lymphedemas, and 60%-75% in the late stage II. The decrease in volume maintained stability in the 5-years follow-up period. Two more advanced lower and one upper limb lymphedemas had 45%-60% reduction. LyTI showed a significant decrease between the preoperative mean value (31.7 ± 9.43) and after 18 months from surgery (11.2 ± 1.91) (p < .001). MLVA patency was shown in 98 (97%) patients. No patients had evidence of postoperative lymphangitis. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated the long-term patency of MLVA in the treatment of cancer-related lymphedemas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Boccardo
- Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics (DISC), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Cardio-Thoracic-Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Gregorio Santori
- Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics (DISC), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Villa
- Department of Diagnostics and Radiotherapy - Nuclear Medicine, San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Susanna Accogli
- Department of Neuro-Science-Rehabilitation Unit, San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Sara Dessalvi
- Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diagnostics (DISC), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
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Martínez‐Jaimez P, Fuster Linares P, Piller N, Masia J, Yamamoto T, López‐Montoya L, Monforte‐Royo C. Multidisciplinary preventive intervention for breast cancer‐related lymphedema: An international consensus. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2022; 31:e13704. [DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Martínez‐Jaimez
- Breast Reconstruction and Lymphedema Surgery Unit Clínica Planas Barcelona Spain
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science Universitat Internacional de Catalunya Barcelona Spain
| | - Pilar Fuster Linares
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science Universitat Internacional de Catalunya Barcelona Spain
| | - Neil Piller
- Flinders Medical Centre, College of Medicine and Public Health Lymphoedema Clinical Research Unit, Flinders Centre for Innovation in Cancer Bedford Park SA Australia
| | - Jaume Masia
- Breast Reconstruction and Lymphedema Surgery Unit Clínica Planas Barcelona Spain
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau Universitat Autonòma de Barcelona Barcelona Spain
- Department of Plastic Surgery Hospital del Mar Barcelona Spain
| | - Takumi Yamamoto
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery National Center for Global Health and Medicine Tokyo Japan
| | | | - Cristina Monforte‐Royo
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science Universitat Internacional de Catalunya Barcelona Spain
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Crystal J, Mella-Catinchi J, Xu K, Weingrad D. Current Surgical Innovations in the Treatment of Breast Cancer. Breast Cancer 2022. [DOI: 10.36255/exon-publications-breast-cancer-surgical-innovation] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Ciudad P, Escandón JM, Manrique OJ, Gutierrez-Arana J, Mayer HF. Lymphedema prevention and immediate breast reconstruction with simultaneous gastroepiploic vascularized lymph node transfer and deep inferior epigastric perforator flap: A case report. Microsurgery 2022; 42:617-621. [PMID: 35821630 DOI: 10.1002/micr.30939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer-related lymphedema following axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) has been documented in 6%-55% of patients, mostly occurring within the next 3 years after radiation or surgery. We present a case of a 53-year-old patient with hormone positive, stage IB, left breast invasive ductal carcinoma treated with immediate lymphatic and microvascular breast reconstruction (MBR) using vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) for lymphedema prevention. A deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap (18.3 × 11.2-cm) and simultaneous prophylactic gastroepiploic-VLNT (7 × 3-cm), orthotopically inset in the axilla, were used for reconstruction following mastectomy and radical ALND. The procedure was uneventful. The patient did not display increased postoperative arm circumferences. ICG lymphography did not show any changes at 2- and 3-years after surgery. Preventive lymphatic reconstruction with GE-VLNT and immediate MBR using the DIEP flap offers a new possibility for the primary prevention of lymphedema and simultaneous immediate autologous breast reconstruction without the risk of iatrogenic lymphedema. Further studies will be directed to unveil the external validity of these findings and the risk reduction rate of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Ciudad
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Burn Surgery, Arzobispo Loayza National Hospital, Lima, Peru
| | - Joseph M Escandón
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Strong Memorial Hospital, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Oscar J Manrique
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Strong Memorial Hospital, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Jessica Gutierrez-Arana
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Burn Surgery, Arzobispo Loayza National Hospital, Lima, Peru
| | - Horacio F Mayer
- Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, University of Buenos Aires Medical School, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Cook JA, Sinha M, Lester M, Fisher CS, Sen CK, Hassanein AH. Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction to Prevent Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema: A Systematic Review. Adv Wound Care (New Rochelle) 2022; 11:382-391. [PMID: 34714158 DOI: 10.1089/wound.2021.0056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Significance: Lymphedema is chronic limb swelling from lymphatic dysfunction. The condition affects up to 250 million people worldwide. In breast cancer patients, lymphedema occurs in 30% who undergo axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). Recent Advances: Immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR), also termed Lymphatic Microsurgical Preventing Healing Approach (LyMPHA), is a method to decrease the risk of lymphedema by performing prophylactic lymphovenous anastomoses at the time of ALND. The objective of this study is to assess the risk reduction of ILR in preventing lymphedema. Critical Issues: Lymphedema has significant effects on the quality of life and morbidity of patients. Several techniques have been described to manage lymphedema after development, but prophylactic treatment of lymphedema with ILR may decrease risk of development to 6.6%. Future Directions: Long-term studies that demonstrate efficacy of ILR may allow for prophylactic management of lymphedema in the patient undergoing lymph node dissection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia A. Cook
- Division of Plastic Surgery; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Mithun Sinha
- Division of Plastic Surgery; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Indiana Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Surgery; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Mary Lester
- Division of Plastic Surgery; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Carla S. Fisher
- Division of Surgical Oncology; Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Chandan K. Sen
- Division of Plastic Surgery; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Indiana Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Surgery; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Aladdin H. Hassanein
- Division of Plastic Surgery; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Indiana Center for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Surgery; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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Wainwright D, Weinstein B, Tavares T, Panetta NJ. Relationship of Adjuvant Radiation and the Lymphedema Index: A Valuable Trend to Follow Subclinical Lymphedema in Patients After Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction. Ann Plast Surg 2022; 88:S512-S516. [PMID: 35690948 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000003252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immediate lymphaticovenular bypass (immediate lymphatic reconstruction [ILR]) at the time of axillary lymph node dissection has emerged as a preventative paradigm to decrease the incidence of breast cancer-related lymphedema in high-risk patients. These patients are often treated with adjuvant therapies, including radiation. Bioimpedance spectroscopy is a validated tool for trending breast cancer-related lymphedema and identifying subclinical disease. Lymphedema Index (LDEX) values are commonly obtained in ILR patients; however, postoperative trends and relationships with adjuvant treatments are yet to be reported in the literature. METHODS After International Review Board approval, 100 consecutive patients underwent axillary lymph node dissection with axillary reverse lymphatic mapping and ILR at a tertiary cancer center. These patients were then followed prospectively in a multidisciplinary lymphedema clinic at 3-month intervals with clinical examination, circumferential limb girth measurements and bioimpedance spectroscopy (LDEX). RESULTS Seventy-two patients met inclusion for analysis at 3 months, 60 at 6 months, 51 at 9 months, 45 at 12 months, 41 at 15 months, and 22 at 18 months. A majority of the patients included underwent adjuvant radiation. Average LDEX score for patients who developed lymphedema was 3.02 at 3 months, at 29.1 months, 17.8 at 9 months, 15.05 at 12 months, 18.75 at 15 months, and 7.7 at 18 months. Patients who went on to develop lymphedema had a higher LDEX score at 6 months (29.1 vs 3.20, P = 0.1329), which reached a significant difference beginning at 9 months (17.8 vs 3.19, P = 0.0004). All patients who went on to develop lymphedema received adjuvant radiation. CONCLUSIONS These data provide valuable insight guiding follow-up after ILR. Six-month LDEX is much higher in patients who developed lymphedema, all of which underwent adjuvant radiation therapy, which correlates with the time of completion of their treatment. Average LDEX value after this remains significantly higher in this population. Patients who demonstrate this increase in LDEX and received adjuvant radiation are at highest risk to develop lymphedema despite ILR. All patients who developed lymphedema despite ILR had adjuvant radiation, and this is likely a contributing factor. Injury from adjuvant radiation and its impact after ILR is not insignificant and warrants further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- D'Arcy Wainwright
- From the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine
| | - Brielle Weinstein
- From the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine
| | - Tina Tavares
- Department of Surgery, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL
| | - Nicholas J Panetta
- From the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine
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