51
|
Nowak S, Henkel A, Theis M, Luetkens J, Geiger S, Sprinkart AM, Pieper CC, Attenberger UI. Deep learning for standardized, MRI-based quantification of subcutaneous and subfascial tissue volume for patients with lipedema and lymphedema. Eur Radiol 2023; 33:884-892. [PMID: 35976393 PMCID: PMC9889496 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-022-09047-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To contribute to a more in-depth assessment of shape, volume, and asymmetry of the lower extremities in patients with lipedema or lymphedema utilizing volume information from MR imaging. METHODS A deep learning (DL) pipeline was developed including (i) localization of anatomical landmarks (femoral heads, symphysis, knees, ankles) and (ii) quality-assured tissue segmentation to enable standardized quantification of subcutaneous (SCT) and subfascial tissue (SFT) volumes. The retrospectively derived dataset for method development consisted of 45 patients (42 female, 44.2 ± 14.8 years) who underwent clinical 3D DIXON MR-lymphangiography examinations of the lower extremities. Five-fold cross-validated training was performed on 16,573 axial slices from 40 patients and testing on 2187 axial slices from 5 patients. For landmark detection, two EfficientNet-B1 convolutional neural networks (CNNs) were applied in an ensemble. One determines the relative foot-head position of each axial slice with respect to the landmarks by regression, the other identifies all landmarks in coronal reconstructed slices using keypoint detection. After landmark detection, segmentation of SCT and SFT was performed on axial slices employing a U-Net architecture with EfficientNet-B1 as encoder. Finally, the determined landmarks were used for standardized analysis and visualization of tissue volume, distribution, and symmetry, independent of leg length, slice thickness, and patient position. RESULTS Excellent test results were observed for landmark detection (z-deviation = 4.5 ± 3.1 mm) and segmentation (Dice score: SCT = 0.989 ± 0.004, SFT = 0.994 ± 0.002). CONCLUSIONS The proposed DL pipeline allows for standardized analysis of tissue volume and distribution and may assist in diagnosis of lipedema and lymphedema or monitoring of conservative and surgical treatments. KEY POINTS • Efficient use of volume information that MRI inherently provides can be extracted automatically by deep learning and enables in-depth assessment of tissue volumes in lipedema and lymphedema. • The deep learning pipeline consisting of body part regression, keypoint detection, and quality-assured tissue segmentation provides detailed information about the volume, distribution, and asymmetry of lower extremity tissues, independent of leg length, slice thickness, and patient position.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Nowak
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Quantitative Imaging Lab Bonn (QILaB), University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Andreas Henkel
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Quantitative Imaging Lab Bonn (QILaB), University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Maike Theis
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Quantitative Imaging Lab Bonn (QILaB), University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Julian Luetkens
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Quantitative Imaging Lab Bonn (QILaB), University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Sergej Geiger
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Quantitative Imaging Lab Bonn (QILaB), University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Alois M. Sprinkart
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Quantitative Imaging Lab Bonn (QILaB), University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Claus C. Pieper
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Quantitative Imaging Lab Bonn (QILaB), University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Ulrike I. Attenberger
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Quantitative Imaging Lab Bonn (QILaB), University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
52
|
Scaglioni MF, Meroni M, Fritsche E. Pedicled superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap combined with lymphovenous anastomosis between the recipient site lymphatic vessels and flap superficial veins for reconstruction of groin/thigh tissue defect and creation of lymph flow-through to reduce lymphatic complications: A report of preliminary results. Microsurgery 2023; 43:44-50. [PMID: 34779002 DOI: 10.1002/micr.30840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Large locoregional defects affecting lymphatic-rich regions may be subject to serious lymphatic complications, such as lymphedema and recurrent lymphocele. In the last few years, a demeaning volume reconstruction combined with lymph flow restoration showed to effectively reduce their incidences. The purpose of this report is to present the preliminary results of the use of pedicled SCIP flap with LVA between the recipient site lymphatic vessels and flap superficial vein for reconstruction of soft tissue defect and creation of lymph flow-through to reduce lymphatic complications. PATIENTS AND METHODS Between 2018 and 2020, 4 patients (2 males and 2 females), with a mean age of 56.5 years (ranging 42-76 years), presented a soft tissue defect with lymphatic drainage damage which was reconstructed by resorting to pedicled SCIP flap. Causes of the defect were tumoral surgical excision in 3 cases and severe trauma in 1 case. The defects were located in the medial thigh in 2 cases and groin area in 2 cases, with sizes ranging from 5 × 19 cm to 8 × 22 cm. The SCIP flap was raised by paying attention to preserve some suitable veins at the distal edge of the skin paddle. The flap was then turned 180 degrees and inset in order to match the direction of the recipient's lymphatic vessels. One or more LVAs were performed between the recipient site damaged lymphatics and a superficial flap's vein. RESULTS The sizes of flaps ranged from 5 × 19 cm to 8 × 22 cm. The mean number of LVAs was 2.2 (ranging from 1 to 3). A minor post-operative complication was encountered (small infected seroma) in 1 case, which was conservatively managed. No secondary procedures were required. In all cases complete range of motion (ROM) of the hip joint and wound coverage at both donor and recipient site were achieved. The mean follow-up was 8 months (ranging 7-10 months). No signs of lymphedema and lymphocele were reported over this time. CONCLUSIONS The pedicled SCIP flap with LVA between the recipient site lymphatic vessels and flap superficial vein may provide a solution for inguinal and upper thigh defects reconstructions that requires a lymphatic drainage restoration. Its superficial veins may be exploited to perform LVAs at recipient site, thus reducing the lymphatic complications in these delicate regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mario F Scaglioni
- Depatment of Hand- and Plastic Surgery, Luzerner Kantonsspital, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Matteo Meroni
- Depatment of Hand- and Plastic Surgery, Luzerner Kantonsspital, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Elmar Fritsche
- Depatment of Hand- and Plastic Surgery, Luzerner Kantonsspital, Lucerne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
53
|
Hosseinzadeh A, Ebrahimi K, Shahriarirad R, Dalfardi F. Lower limb lymphedema and cellulitis as a complication of COVID-19 vaccine: A case report. Clin Case Rep 2022; 10:e6317. [PMID: 36540881 PMCID: PMC9755814 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.6317] [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: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A 68-year-old man without complications following his first dose of Sinopharm (BBIBP-CorV) COVID-19 vaccine developed left foot and ankle edema, extending to his left leg 3 days after his second dose. Color-Doppler sonography and lymphoscintigraphy showed extensive soft tissue swelling and fat edema in both legs, proposing lymphatic drainage disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Hosseinzadeh
- Thoracic and Vascular Surgery Research CenterShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Kamyar Ebrahimi
- Thoracic and Vascular Surgery Research CenterShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran,School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Reza Shahriarirad
- Thoracic and Vascular Surgery Research CenterShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran,School of MedicineShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| | - Farzad Dalfardi
- Thoracic and Vascular Surgery Research CenterShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
| |
Collapse
|
54
|
Choi J, Lee K, Kim J, Jeong W, Jo T, Lee HW, Park YS, Park SW. Thyroid Hormone Ameliorates Lymphedema by Suppressing Adipogenesis in a Murine Lymphedema Model. Lymphat Res Biol 2022; 20:585-592. [PMID: 35333603 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2021.0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Exogenous supplementation of thyroid hormone could inhibit excessive fat deposition in lymphedema tissue by suppressing adipogenesis. Methods and Results: Cell viability, adipogenic differentiation, and mRNA expression were measured in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes treated with L-thyroxine. Twelve mice were divided into control and L-thyroxine groups. Two weeks after lymphedema was surgically induced, the experimental mice were fed L-thyroxine for 4 weeks. Tail volume and body weight were measured, and 6 weeks after the surgery, tail skin and subcutaneous tissue were harvested for histopathologic examination and protein isolation. In 3T3-L1 cells, treatment with 10-500 μM L-thyroxine did not affect cell viability. Eight days after induction of adipogenic differentiation, lipid accumulation decreased significantly in the 50 and 100 μM L-thyroxine groups (p < 0.001). mRNA levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α (C/EBPα), and fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) decreased significantly in the 100 μM L-thyroxine group compared with the control group (p = 0.017). Lymphedema tails treated with L-thyroxine exhibited decreased volume (p = 0.028) and thickness of dermal and subcutaneous tissue (p = 0.01) and increased vascular endothelial growth factor-C protein expression (p = 0.017) compared with the control. Conclusion: Thyroid hormone therapy inhibits the adipogenesis of 3T3-L1 cells in vitro and decreases the volume of murine lymphedema tail in vivo. These findings suggest that thyroid hormone therapy could be used to treat lymphedema.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaehoon Choi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Kanghee Lee
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Junhyung Kim
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Woonhyeok Jeong
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Taehee Jo
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoun Wook Lee
- Department of Pathology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Samsung Changwon Hospital, Changwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Sook Park
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Samsung Changwon Hospital, Changwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Woo Park
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Samsung Changwon Hospital, Changwon, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
55
|
Lee GK, Perrault DP, Bouz A, Pourmoussa AJ, Yu R, Kim SJ, Gardner D, Johnson M, Park SY, Park EK, Seong YJN, Lee S, Jung E, Choi D, Hong YK, Wong AK. Prolymphangiogenic Effects of 9- cis Retinoic Acid Are Enhanced at Sites of Lymphatic Injury and Dependent on Treatment Duration in Experimental Postsurgical Lymphedema. Lymphat Res Biol 2022; 20:640-650. [PMID: 35584281 PMCID: PMC9810351 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2021.0073] [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] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Patients undergoing surgical treatment for solid tumors are at risk for development of secondary lymphedema due to intraoperative lymphatic vessel injury. The damaged lymphatic vessels fail to adequately regenerate and lymphatic obstruction leads to fluid and protein accumulation in the interstitial space and chronic lymphedema develops as a result. There are currently no effective pharmacological agents that reduce the risk of developing lymphedema or treat pre-existing lymphedema, and management is largely palliative. The present study investigated the efficacy of various 9-cis retinoic acid (9-cis RA) dosing strategies in reducing postsurgical lymphedema by utilizing a well-established mouse tail lymphedema model. Methods and Results: Short-duration treatment with 9-cis RA did not demonstrate a significant reduction in postoperative tail volume, nor an improvement in lymphatic clearance. However, long-term treatment with 9-cis RA resulted in decreased overall tail volume, dermal thickness, and epidermal thickness, with an associated increase in functional lymphatic clearance and lymphatic vessel density, assessed by LYVE-1 immunostaining, compared with control. These effects were seen at the site of lymphatic injury, with no significant changes observed in uninjured sites such as ear skin and the diaphragm. Conclusions: Given the reported results indicating that 9-cis RA is a potent promoter of lymphangiogenesis and improved lymphatic clearance at sites of lymphatic injury, investigation of postoperative 9-cis RA administration to patients at high risk of developing lymphedema may demonstrate positive efficacy and reduced rates of postsurgical lymphedema.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gene K. Lee
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - David P. Perrault
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Antoun Bouz
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Austin J. Pourmoussa
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Roy Yu
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Soo Jung Kim
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Division of Plastic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Daniel Gardner
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Maxwell Johnson
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sun Young Park
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Eun Kyung Park
- Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Young Jin N. Seong
- Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sunju Lee
- Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Eunson Jung
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Dongwon Choi
- Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Young-Kwon Hong
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Alex K. Wong
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Division of Plastic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
56
|
Seth I, Bulloch G, Gibson D, Seth N, Hunter-Smith DJ, Rozen WM. Quantification and Effectiveness of Vascularized Neck Lymph Node Transfer for Lymphedema: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Indian J Surg 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12262-022-03627-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
|
57
|
Long-Term Effects of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy on Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11226747. [PMID: 36431224 PMCID: PMC9699053 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11226747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) can reduce breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). However, evidence of the long-term effectiveness of ESWT on BCRL is sparse. The aim of the study was to investigate whether ESWT has long-term effects on BCRL. We enrolled patients with stage 2 lymphedema. The 28 female patients were randomly divided into the ESWT group (n = 14) and the control group (n = 14). ESWT was applied thrice a week for a total of 3 weeks with an intensity of 0.056 to 0.068 mJ/mm2 and a frequency of 4 Hz. Complex decongestive therapy (CDT) was applied in both groups. The arm circumference, fluid volume, ratio of water content, and skin thickness were measured. Patients were evaluated at before treatment, 3 weeks after ESWT completion, and 3 months post-ESWT completion. The ESWT group, the circumference of the whole arm, volume, ratio of water content, QuickDASH score, and skin thickness showed statistically significant improvement at 3 weeks and 3 months post-treatment. When comparing the changes in measurement between the two groups at 3 weeks and 3 months post-treatment, ESWT group showed statistically significant improvement in circumference (cm) below the elbow, ratio of water content and skin thickness at 3 weeks and 3 months post treatment. Overall, ESWT improved lymphedema in patients with stage 2 BCRL, and the effects persisted for at least 3 months. Therefore, ESWT may be an additional treatment method for patients with lymphedema.
Collapse
|
58
|
A critical analysis of American insurance coverage for imaging and surgical treatment of lymphedema. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord 2022; 10:1367-1375. [PMID: 35963504 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2022.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over 35 million Americans have lymphedema. Nonetheless, lymphedema is underdiagnosed and undertreated worldwide. We investigated whether the rates of coverage for imaging and surgical procedures may contribute to the limited care provided for lymphedema. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional evaluation of 58 insurers, chosen based on state enrollment and market share. A web-based search or phone call determined whether a publicly available policy on lymphedema-specific imaging, physiological procedures, and excisional procedures was available. Coverage status and corresponding criteria were extracted. RESULTS Of the two-thirds of insurers who included a policy on imaging, 4% (n = 2) provided coverage and 4% (n = 2) specified coverage only on a case-by-case basis. Forty-eight percent (n = 28) of insurers had a statement of coverage on lymphovenous bypass or vascularized lymph node transfer, in which reimbursement was almost universally denied (96%, n = 26; 93%, n = 26). Liposuction and debulking procedures were included in 25 (43%) and 13 (22%) policies, in which seven (28%) and four (31%) insurers would provide coverage, with over 75% having criteria. Coverage of liposuction was significantly more than for lymphovenous bypass (P < .04). CONCLUSIONS Nearly one-half of American insurers do not have a publicly available policy on most imaging, physiological, or excisional procedures, leaving coverage status ambiguous. Reimbursement was uncommon for imaging and physiological procedures, whereas the majority of insurers who did offer coverage for excisional procedures also had multiple criteria to be met. These elements may together be a limiting factor in receiving appropriate care for lymphedema.
Collapse
|
59
|
Maeda T, Yamamoto Y, Hayashi T, Furukawa H, Ishikawa K, Miura T, Hojo M, Funayama E. Restoration of lymph flow by flap transfer can prevent severe lower extremity lymphedema after inguino-pelvic lymphadenectomy. Surg Today 2022; 53:588-595. [PMID: 36309621 DOI: 10.1007/s00595-022-02608-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Severe lymphedema is difficult to treat because of the associated extensive scar formation. Therefore, preventing scar formation might alleviate the severity of lymphedema following lymphadenectomy. In this study, we evaluated the usefulness of flap transfer, performed immediately after lymphadenectomy, for preventing scar formation. METHODS Twenty-three patients with subcutaneous malignancy in a lower extremity, who underwent inguino-pelvic lymphadenectomy, were divided into groups based on whether flap transfer was performed. The severity of lymphedema was categorized according to the ratio of the circumference of the affected extremity to that of the unaffected extremity, as mild (< 20% increase in volume), moderate (20-40%), or severe (> 40%). RESULTS In the 18 patients who underwent lymphadenectomy without flap transfer, lymphedema was classified as mild in 7, moderate in 7, and severe in 4. In the five patients who underwent lymphadenectomy with flap transfer, lymphedema was classified as mild in 4 and moderate in 1. This difference between the groups did not reach significance. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study suggest that flap transfer may help prevent scar formation and contribute to the restoration of lymph flow after lymphadenectomy.
Collapse
|
60
|
Manrique OJ, Bustos SS, Ciudad P, Adabi K, Chen WF, Forte AJ, Cheville AL, Jakub JW, McLaughlin SA, Chen HC. Overview of Lymphedema for Physicians and Other Clinicians: A Review of Fundamental Concepts. Mayo Clin Proc 2022; 97:1920-1935. [PMID: 32829905 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2020.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Lymphedema has historically been underrated in clinical practice, education, and scholarship to the detriment of many patients with this chronic, debilitating condition. The mechanical insufficiency of the lymphatic system causes the abnormal accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the interstitium, which triggers a cascade of adverse consequences such as fat deposition and fibrosis. As the condition progresses, patients present with extremity heaviness, itchiness, skin infections, and, in later stages, dermal fibrosis, skin papillomas, acanthosis, and other trophic skin changes. Correspondingly, lymphedema results in psychological morbidity, including anxiety, depression, social avoidance, and a decreased quality of life, encompassing emotional, functional, physical, and social domains. For this review, we conducted a literature search using PubMed and EMBASE and herein summarize the evidence related to the fundamental concepts of lymphedema. This article aims to raise awareness of this serious condition and outline and review the fundamental concepts of lymphedema.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oscar J Manrique
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
| | - Samyd S Bustos
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Pedro Ciudad
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Burn Surgery, Arzobispo Loayza National Hospital, Lima, Peru
| | - Kian Adabi
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Wei F Chen
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City
| | | | - Andrea L Cheville
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | | | - Hung-Chi Chen
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
61
|
Verhey EM, Kandi LA, Lee YS, Morris BE, Casey WJ, Rebecca AM, Marks LA, Howard MA, Teven CM. Outcomes of Lymphovenous Anastomosis for Lower Extremity Lymphedema: A Systematic Review. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2022; 10:e4529. [PMID: 36225843 PMCID: PMC9542573 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000004529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) is a microsurgical treatment for lymphedema of the lower extremity (LEL). This study systematically reviews the most recent data on outcomes of various LVA techniques for LEL in diverse patients. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted in the Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, and Scopus databases to extract articles published through June 2021. Studies reporting data on objective postoperative improvement in lymphedema and/or subjective improvement in quality of life for patients with LEL were included. Extracted data comprised demographics, number of patients and lower limbs, duration of symptoms before LVA, surgical technique, duration of follow-up, and objective and subjective outcomes. RESULTS A total of 303 articles were identified and evaluated, of which 74 were ultimately deemed eligible for inclusion in this study, representing 6260 patients and 2554 lower limbs. The average patient age ranged from 22.6 to 76.14 years. The duration of lymphedema before LVA ranged from 12 months to 11.4 years. Objective rates of improvement in lymphedema ranged from 23.3% to 100%, with the greatest degree of improvement seen in patients with early-stage LEL. CONCLUSIONS LVA is a safe and effective technique for the treatment of LEL of all stages. Several emerging techniques and variations may lead to improved patient outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erik M. Verhey
- From the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Ariz
| | - Lyndsay A. Kandi
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Ariz
| | - Yeonsoo S. Lee
- From the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Ariz
| | - Bryn E. Morris
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Ariz
| | - William J. Casey
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Ariz
| | - Alanna M. Rebecca
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Ariz
| | - Lisa A. Marks
- Mayo Clinic Libraries, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Ariz
| | - Michael A. Howard
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Ill
| | - Chad M. Teven
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Ill
| |
Collapse
|
62
|
Lian Y, Li T, Wu N, Wu J, Tang Z. Lymphography method based on time-autocorrelated optical coherence tomography. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2022; 13:5390-5399. [PMID: 36425642 PMCID: PMC9664883 DOI: 10.1364/boe.470390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Lymphatic vessels are structurally similar to blood vessels, and the lymphatic fluid flowing within the lymphatic vessels is distributed throughout the body and plays a vital role in the human immune system. Visualization of the lymphatic vessels is clinically important in the diagnosis of tumor cell metastasis and related immune system diseases, but lymph is difficult to image due to its near-transparent nature and low flow rate. In this paper, we present a lymphography method based on time-autocorrelated optical coherence tomography. By using the minimum value difference of the autocorrelation function of the time-varying interference intensity between the lymph and the surrounding tissues, the non-invasive and high-sensitivity imaging of lymph vessels can be achieved. The method proposed in this paper has potential significance for the research and treatment of immune system diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Lian
- School of Physics and Telecommunication Engineering, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Contributed equally to this work
| | - Tingfeng Li
- School of Physics and Telecommunication Engineering, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Contributed equally to this work
| | - Nanshou Wu
- School of Physics and Telecommunication Engineering, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jiayi Wu
- School of Physics and Telecommunication Engineering, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zhilie Tang
- School of Physics and Telecommunication Engineering, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Laboratory of Quantum Engineering and Quantum Material,
South China Normal University, IMOT , Guangzhou 510006, China
| |
Collapse
|
63
|
Zhuang L, Chen H, Zheng X, Wu S, Yu Y, Lan L, Xu L, Xu J, Fan H. Bioelectrical impedance analysis for early screening of upper limb subclinical lymphedema: A case–control study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0274570. [PMID: 36121834 PMCID: PMC9484636 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer-related lymphedema is a treatment-related chronic disease that causes great distress and medical burden. Early screening and precautionary measures for lymphedema could improve well-being and decrease medical costs. Herein, we used bioelectrical impedance analysis for early screening of lymphedema. We set up a verifiable standardized subclinical standard to screen subclinical lymphedema in postoperative breast cancer patients using bioelectrical impedance. The first part determined the criteria of subclinical lymphedema. Among the 424 female participants, 127 were healthy women, whereas 297 were postoperative breast cancer survivors. Subclinical standard boundaries were determined by the 95% confidence interval of the healthy women. The screening rate of patients with subclinical lymphedema was inferred by comparing the subclinical standard boundaries and the postoperative patient values. A total of 14.81–20.87% of postoperative breast cancer survivors were identified as patients with subclinical lymphedema. The second part provided the results of the verification test of this subclinical standard. The data of the verification test from 30 healthy women and 30 screened patients met the subclinical standard, and 30 breast cancer survivors with lymphedema verified the utility and feasibility of the subclinical standard. Therefore, this standard could provide a screening tool for early the identification of subclinical breast cancer survivors. Early detection helps implement personal and precise medical precautions for patients with subclinical lymphedema.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linli Zhuang
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Huaying Chen
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuemei Zheng
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shaoyong Wu
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- * E-mail:
| | - Youhui Yu
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lu Lan
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liang Xu
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jumei Xu
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongying Fan
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
64
|
Cho SC, Kwak SG, Cho HK. Effectiveness of Mobiderm® bandages in the treatment of cancer-related secondary lymphedema: A pilot study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e30198. [PMID: 36107527 PMCID: PMC9439736 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000030198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Secondary lymphedema is a clinically incurable disease that commonly occurs following surgical cancer treatment and/or radiation. One of the most common forms of lymphedema treatment is complete decongestive therapy (CDT). This study aimed to investigate the clinical effects of new compression bandages (Mobiderm® bandages) in patients with secondary lymphedema after cancer treatment. This study included 17 patients with ipsilateral limb lymphedema after cancer treatment (one male and 16 female patients; age, 45-80 years). Patients were divided into the Mobiderm® bandage group (n = 9) and classical bandage group (n = 8). The International Society of Lymphology (ISL) stage was also evaluated. Limb circumference was measured at 5 to 6 sites per limb to identify the maximal circumference difference (MCD) between the affected and unaffected limbs. Pre-and posttreatment MCD were analyzed. After intensive CDT, both the Mobiderm® bandage group (1.2 ± 0.56 cm) and classical bandage group (0.85 ± 0.40 cm) had a significant decrease in MCD compared to pretreatment (P < .05). However, in patients with ISL stage 2, the mean MCD decrease rate was greater in the Mobiderm® bandage group (22.82 ± 10.92 %) than in the classical bandage group (12.18 ± 8.1 1%)(P = .045). Both new bandages (Mobiderm® bandages and classical bandages) reduced the circumference of limb edema in patients with secondary lymphedema after cancer treatment. This study findings suggest that Mobiderm® bandages as an alternative modality for controlling ISL stage 2 lymphedema.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sung Cheol Cho
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Gyu Kwak
- Department of Medical Statistics, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Kyung Cho
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Republic of Korea
- *Correspondence: Hee Kyung Cho, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, 33 Duryugongwon-ro 17-gil, Nam-Gu, Daegu, 42472, Republic of Korea (e-mail: )
| |
Collapse
|
65
|
Ricci V, Ricci C, Gervasoni F, Giulio C, Farì G, Andreoli A, Özçakar L. From physical to ultrasound examination in lymphedema: a novel dynamic approach. J Ultrasound 2022; 25:757-763. [PMID: 35000129 PMCID: PMC9402863 DOI: 10.1007/s40477-021-00633-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In daily practice, medical history and physical examination are commonly coupled with anthropometric measurements for the diagnosis and management of patients with lymphatic diseases. Herein, considering the current progress of ultrasound imaging in accurately assessing the superficial soft tissues of the human body; it is noteworthy that ultrasound examination has the potential to augment the diagnostic process. In this sense/report, briefly revisiting the most common clinical maneuvers described in the pertinent literature, the authors try to match them with possible (static and dynamic) sonographic assessment techniques to exemplify/propose an 'ultrasound-guided' physical examination for different tissues in the evaluation of lymphedema.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Ricci
- Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine Unit, Luigi Sacco University Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy.
| | - Costantino Ricci
- Pathology Unit, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Gervasoni
- Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine Unit, Luigi Sacco University Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Cocco Giulio
- Unit of Ultrasound in Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Science of Aging, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giacomo Farì
- Section of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Arnaldo Andreoli
- Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine Unit, Luigi Sacco University Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Levent Özçakar
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Hacettepe University Medical School, Ankara, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
66
|
Isasi E, Isasi ME, van Loon JJWA. The application of artificial gravity in medicine and space. Front Physiol 2022; 13:952723. [PMID: 36105282 PMCID: PMC9465481 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.952723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gravity plays a crucial role in physiology. The lack of gravity, like in long duration spaceflight missions, cause pathologies in e.g., the musculoskeletal system, cardiovascular deconditioning, immune system deprivation or brain abnormalities, to just mention a few. The application of artificial gravity through short-arm human centrifugation (SAHC) has been studied as a possible countermeasure to treat spaceflight deconditioning. However, hypergravity protocols applied by using SAHC have also been used to treat different, ground-based pathologies. Such gravitational therapies have been applied in Uruguay for more than four decades now. The aim of this overview is to summarize the most important findings about the effects of gravitational therapy in different, mainly vascular based pathologies according to the experience in the Gravitational Therapy Center and to discuss the current research in the field of hypergravity applications in medicine but also as multisystem countermeasure for near weightlessness pathologies. New insight is needed on the use of hypergravity in medicine and space research and application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia Isasi
- Centro de Terapia Gravitacional, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Departamento de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Maria E. Isasi
- Centro de Terapia Gravitacional, Montevideo, Uruguay
- *Correspondence: Jack J. W. A. van Loon, ; Maria E. Isasi,
| | - Jack J. W. A. van Loon
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery/Pathology, Amsterdam Movement Sciences & Amsterdam Bone Center (ABC), Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam & Academic Center for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Life Support and Physical Sciences Section (TEC-MMG), European Space Agency (ESA), European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC), Noordwijk, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Jack J. W. A. van Loon, ; Maria E. Isasi,
| |
Collapse
|
67
|
Deban M, Vallance P, Jost E, McKinnon JG, Temple-Oberle C. Higher Rate of Lymphedema with Inguinal versus Axillary Complete Lymph Node Dissection for Melanoma: A Potential Target for Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction? Curr Oncol 2022; 29:5655-5663. [PMID: 36005184 PMCID: PMC9406378 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29080446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The present study was conducted to define the lymphedema rate at our institution in patients undergoing axillary (ALND) or inguinal (ILND) lymph node dissection (LND) for melanoma. It aimed to examine risk factors predisposing patients to a higher rate of lymphedema, highlighting which patients could be targeted for immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR). Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted between October 2015 and July 2020 to identify patients who had undergone ALND or ILND for melanoma. The main outcome measures were rates of transient and permanent lymphedema. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess the relationship between lymphedema rate and factors related to patient characteristics, surgical procedure, pathology findings, and adjuvant treatment. Results: Between October 2015 and July 2020, 66 patients underwent LND for melanoma: 34 patients underwent ALND and 32 patients underwent ILND. At a median follow-up of 29 months, 85.3% (n = 29) of patients having had an ALND did not experience lymphedema, versus 50.0% (n = 16) of ILND (p = 0.0019). The rates of permanent lymphedema for patients having undergone ALND and ILND were 11.8% (n = 4) and 37.5% (n = 12) respectively (p = 0.016, NS). The rate of transient lymphedema was 2.9% (n = 1) for ALND and 12.5% (n = 4) for ILND (p = 0.13, NS). On univariate analysis, the location of LND and wound infection were found to be significant factors for lymphedema. On multivariate analysis, only the location of LND remained a significant predictor, with the inguinal location predisposing to lymphedema. Conclusion: This study highlights the high rate of lymphedema following ILND for melanoma and is a potential target for future patients to be considered for ILR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melina Deban
- Surgical Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Center, Calgary, AB T2N 4N2, Canada
- Correspondence:
| | - Patrick Vallance
- Surgical Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Center, Calgary, AB T2N 4N2, Canada
| | - Evan Jost
- Surgical Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Center, Calgary, AB T2N 4N2, Canada
| | | | - Claire Temple-Oberle
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tom Baker Cancer Center, Calgary, AB T2N 4N2, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
68
|
Hall JD, Farzaneh S, Babakhani Galangashi R, Pujari A, Sweet DT, Kahn ML, Jiménez JM. Lymphoedema conditions disrupt endothelial barrier function in vitro. J R Soc Interface 2022; 19:20220223. [PMID: 36000230 PMCID: PMC9399713 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2022.0223] [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: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic vessel contractions generate net antegrade pulsatile lymph flow. By contrast, impaired lymphatic vessels are often associated with lymphoedema and altered lymph flow. The effect of lymphoedema on the lymph flow field and endothelium is not completely known. Here, we characterized the lymphatic flow field of a platelet-specific receptor C-type lectin-like receptor 2 (CLEC2) deficient lymphoedema mouse model. In regions of lymphoedema, collecting vessels were significantly distended, vessel contractility was greatly diminished and pulsatile lymph flow was replaced by quasi-steady flow. In vitro exposure of human dermal lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) to lymphoedema-like quasi-steady flow conditions increased intercellular gap formation and permeability in comparison to normal pulsatile lymph flow. In the absence of flow, LECs exposed to steady pressure (SP) increased intercellular gap formation in contrast with pulsatile pressure (PP). The absence of pulsatility in steady fluid flow and SP conditions without flow-induced upregulation of myosin light chain (MLCs) regulatory subunits 9 and 12B mRNA expression and phosphorylation of MLCs, in contrast with pulsatile flow and PP without flow. These studies reveal that the loss of pulsatility, which can occur with lymphoedema, causes LEC contraction and an increase in intercellular gap formation mediated by MLC phosphorylation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua D. Hall
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Sina Farzaneh
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Reza Babakhani Galangashi
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Akshay Pujari
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Daniel T. Sweet
- Department of Medicine and Division of Cardiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mark L. Kahn
- Department of Medicine and Division of Cardiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Juan M. Jiménez
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
69
|
Surgical Treatment and Rehabilitation Strategies for Upper and Lower Extremity Lymphedema: A Comprehensive Review. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58070954. [PMID: 35888673 PMCID: PMC9324426 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58070954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymphedema is a chronic disabling condition affecting a growing number of patients worldwide. Although lymphedema is not life-threatening, several reports underlined detrimental consequences in terms of distress, pain, functional impairment, and infections with a relevant decrease in quality of life. Currently, there is no cure, and the therapeutic management of this condition aims at slowing down the disease progression and preventing secondary complications. Early diagnosis is paramount to enhance the effects of rehabilitation or surgical treatments. On the other hand, a multidisciplinary treatment should be truly integrated, the combination of microsurgical and reductive procedures should be considered a valid strategy to manage extremity lymphedema, and rehabilitation should be considered the cornerstone of the multidisciplinary treatment not only for patients not suitable for surgical interventions but also before and after surgical procedures. Therefore, a specialized management of Plastic Reconstructive Surgeons and Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine physicians should be mandatory to address patients’ needs and optimize the treatment of this disabling and detrimental condition. Therefore, the aim of this review was to characterize the comprehensive management of lymphedema, providing a broad overview of the potential therapy available in the current literature to optimize the comprehensive management of lymphedema and minimize complications.
Collapse
|
70
|
Mallarino-Restrepo G, Lin MCY, Cheng MH. Distal facial vein catheterization for prevention and management of thrombosis in vascularized lymph node transfers. J Surg Oncol 2022; 126:970-977. [PMID: 35811436 DOI: 10.1002/jso.26995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study investigated the outcomes of the distal facial vein catheterization (DFVC) to manage venous thrombosis in vascularized submental lymph nodes (VSLN) flap transplantations. METHODS Between March 2017 and December 2020, patients who underwent VSLN flaps were divided into Group I: combined delayed primary retention sutures (DPRS) with DFVC, and Group II: DPRS alone. Primary outcomes were early (within 72 h) and late venous thrombosis. Secondary outcomes included other nonvascular complications and mechanical factors of the thrombosis. RESULTS A total of 105 patients who underwent 106 VSLN flaps, including 37 and 69 flaps in Groups I and II, respectively, were included. There were no statistically significant differences in age, body mass index, Taiwan lymphoscintigraphy staging, and surgical factors between the two groups (all p > 0.05). Early venous thrombosis requiring re-exploration developed in one (2.7%) and three (4.3%) flaps in Groups I and II, respectively (p = 0.20). One flap (2.7%) and eight (11.5%) flaps developed late venous thrombosis in Groups I and II, respectively (p < 0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in total complication rates between both groups (p = 0.9). CONCLUSION VSLN flap transplantation had a significantly higher risk of late venous thrombosis. DFVC significantly decreased the late venous thrombosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo Mallarino-Restrepo
- Division of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Miffy C-Y Lin
- Division of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Center of Lymphedema Microsurgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Huei Cheng
- Division of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Center of Lymphedema Microsurgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Center for Tissue Engineering, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Section of Plastic Surgery, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| |
Collapse
|
71
|
Cheon H, Gelvosa MN, Kim SA, Song H, Jeon JY. Lymphatic channel sheet of polydimethylsiloxane for preventing secondary lymphedema in the rat upper limb model. Bioeng Transl Med 2022; 8:e10371. [PMID: 36684082 PMCID: PMC9842043 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10371] [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: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Secondary lymphedema is a severe complication of cancer treatment, but there is no effective curative method yet. Lymph node dissection and radiation therapy for cancer treatment may lead to secondary lymphedema, which is a chronic disease induced by malfunction of lymphatic flow. The lymphatic channel sheet (LCS) is an artificial micro-fluidic structure that was fabricated with polydimethylsiloxane to maintain lymphatic flow and induce lymphangiogenesis. The structure has two-dimensional multichannels that increase the probability of lymphangiogenesis and allow for relatively easy application. We verified the efficacy of the lymphatic channel sheet through macroscopic and microscopic observation in small animal models, which underwent brachial lymph node dissection and irradiation. The lymphatic channel sheet enabled the successful transport of lymphatic fluid from the distal to the proximal area in place of the removed brachial lymph nodes. It prevented swelling and abnormal lymphatic drainage during the follow-up period. Lymphangiogenesis was also identified inside the channel by histological analysis after 8 weeks. According to these experimental results, we attest to the roles of the lymphatic channel sheet as a lymphatic pathway and scaffold in the rat upper limb model of secondary lymphedema. The lymphatic channel sheet maintained lymphatic flow after lymph node dissection and irradiation in an environment where lymph flow is cut off. It also relieved symptoms of secondary lymphedema by providing a lymph-friendly space and inducing lymphangiogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hwayeong Cheon
- Biomedical Engineering Research CenterAsan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical CenterSeoulRepublic of Korea
| | - Ma. Nessa Gelvosa
- Department of Rehabilitation MedicineAsan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of MedicineSeoulRepublic of Korea
| | - Sang Ah Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation MedicineAsan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of MedicineSeoulRepublic of Korea
| | - Ho‐Young Song
- Department of Minimal‐Invasive InterventionThe Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhou CityChina
| | - Jae Yong Jeon
- Department of Rehabilitation MedicineAsan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of MedicineSeoulRepublic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
72
|
Wang H, Dong D, Chen L, Yuan M, Liu C, Liu T. Methylene blue and carbon nanoparticles had no significant adverse effects on the survival and function of lymph nodes after non-vascularized transplantation in a mouse model. Transpl Immunol 2022; 72:101565. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2022.101565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
73
|
Lymphoscintigraphy for the Prediction of the Effect of Lymphaticovenular Anastomosis for the Treatment of Secondary Lower Limb Lymphedema. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord 2022; 10:1079-1086.e2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2022.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
74
|
Xu W, Nelson-Maney NP, Bálint L, Kwon HB, Davis RB, Dy DCM, Dunleavey JM, St. Croix B, Caron KM. Orphan G-Protein Coupled Receptor GPRC5B Is Critical for Lymphatic Development. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105712. [PMID: 35628521 PMCID: PMC9146384 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have focused on the molecular signaling pathways that govern the development and growth of lymphatics in the hopes of elucidating promising druggable targets. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are currently the largest family of membrane receptors targeted by FDA-approved drugs, but there remain many unexplored receptors, including orphan GPCRs with no known biological ligand or physiological function. Thus, we sought to illuminate the cadre of GPCRs expressed at high levels in lymphatic endothelial cells and identified four orphan receptors: GPRC5B, AGDRF5/GPR116, FZD8 and GPR61. Compared to blood endothelial cells, GPRC5B is the most abundant GPCR expressed in cultured human lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs), and in situ RNAscope shows high mRNA levels in lymphatics of mice. Using genetic engineering approaches in both zebrafish and mice, we characterized the function of GPRC5B in lymphatic development. Morphant gprc5b zebrafish exhibited failure of thoracic duct formation, and Gprc5b-/- mice suffered from embryonic hydrops fetalis and hemorrhage associated with subcutaneous edema and blood-filled lymphatic vessels. Compared to Gprc5+/+ littermate controls, Gprc5b-/- embryos exhibited attenuated developmental lymphangiogenesis. During the postnatal period, ~30% of Gprc5b-/- mice were growth-restricted or died prior to weaning, with associated attenuation of postnatal cardiac lymphatic growth. In cultured human primary LECs, expression of GPRC5B is required to maintain cell proliferation and viability. Collectively, we identify a novel role for the lymphatic-enriched orphan GPRC5B receptor in lymphangiogenesis of fish, mice and human cells. Elucidating the roles of orphan GPCRs in lymphatics provides new avenues for discovery of druggable targets to treat lymphatic-related conditions such as lymphedema and cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Xu
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (W.X.); (N.P.N.-M.); (L.B.); (H.-B.K.); (R.B.D.); (D.C.M.D.)
| | - Nathan P. Nelson-Maney
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (W.X.); (N.P.N.-M.); (L.B.); (H.-B.K.); (R.B.D.); (D.C.M.D.)
| | - László Bálint
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (W.X.); (N.P.N.-M.); (L.B.); (H.-B.K.); (R.B.D.); (D.C.M.D.)
| | - Hyouk-Bum Kwon
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (W.X.); (N.P.N.-M.); (L.B.); (H.-B.K.); (R.B.D.); (D.C.M.D.)
| | - Reema B. Davis
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (W.X.); (N.P.N.-M.); (L.B.); (H.-B.K.); (R.B.D.); (D.C.M.D.)
| | - Danielle C. M. Dy
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (W.X.); (N.P.N.-M.); (L.B.); (H.-B.K.); (R.B.D.); (D.C.M.D.)
| | - James M. Dunleavey
- Tumor Angiogenesis Unit, Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, National Cancer Institute–Frederick, NIH, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; (J.M.D.); (B.S.C.)
| | - Brad St. Croix
- Tumor Angiogenesis Unit, Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, National Cancer Institute–Frederick, NIH, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; (J.M.D.); (B.S.C.)
| | - Kathleen M. Caron
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (W.X.); (N.P.N.-M.); (L.B.); (H.-B.K.); (R.B.D.); (D.C.M.D.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
75
|
Perez CS, Mestriner C, Ribeiro LTN, Grillo FW, Lemos TW, Carneiro AA, Guirro RRDJ, Guirro ECO. Relationship between lymphedema after breast cancer treatment and biophysical characteristics of the affected tissue. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0264160. [PMID: 35442985 PMCID: PMC9020674 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of breast cancer is often complicated by lymphedema of the upper limbs. Standard lymphedema evaluation methodologies are not able to measure tissue fibrosis. The ultrasound aspects related to tissue microstructures of lymphedema are neglected in clinical evaluations. The objective of this study was to identify and measure the degree of impairment, topography, and biophysical alterations of subcutaneous lymphedema tissue secondary to the treatment of breast cancer by ultrasonography. Forty-two women at a mean age of 58 (±9.7) years, with unilateral lymphedema due to breast cancer treatment, were evaluated. The upper limbs were divided into affected (affected by lymphedema) and control (contralateral limb). Each limb was subdivided into seven areas, defined by perimetry, evaluated in pairs. The biophysical characteristics thickness, entropy, and echogenicity were evaluated by ultrasonography. The results showed a significant difference in the echogenicity and thickness variables between the affected and unaffected upper limb, in all the extent of the upper limb, while entropy showed no significant difference. The findings indicate that the data presented were consistent both in identifying and measuring the degree of impairment and biophysical changes in the subcutaneous tissue of lymphedema secondary to the treatment of breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla S. Perez
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Reabilitação e Desempenho Funcional, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
- Departamento de Ciências das Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de são Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
- * E-mail: , (CSP); (ECOG)
| | - Carolina Mestriner
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Reabilitação e Desempenho Funcional, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Leticia T. N. Ribeiro
- Departamento de Física, Faculdade de Filosofia, ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Felipe W. Grillo
- Departamento de Física, Faculdade de Filosofia, ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Tenysson W. Lemos
- Departamento de Ciências das Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de são Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Antônio A. Carneiro
- Departamento de Física, Faculdade de Filosofia, ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Rinaldo Roberto de Jesus Guirro
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Reabilitação e Desempenho Funcional, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
- Departamento de Ciências das Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de são Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Elaine C. O. Guirro
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Reabilitação e Desempenho Funcional, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
- Departamento de Ciências das Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de são Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
- * E-mail: , (CSP); (ECOG)
| |
Collapse
|
76
|
Emery J, Butow P, Lai-Kwon J, Nekhlyudov L, Rynderman M, Jefford M. Management of common clinical problems experienced by survivors of cancer. Lancet 2022; 399:1537-1550. [PMID: 35430021 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(22)00242-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Improvements in early detection and treatment have led to a growing prevalence of survivors of cancer worldwide. Models of care fail to address adequately the breadth of physical, psychosocial, and supportive care needs of those who survive cancer. In this Series paper, we summarise the evidence around the management of common clinical problems experienced by survivors of adult cancers and how to cover these issues in a consultation. Reviewing the patient's history of cancer and treatments highlights potential long-term or late effects to consider, and recommended surveillance for recurrence. Physical consequences of specific treatments to identify include cardiac dysfunction, metabolic syndrome, lymphoedema, peripheral neuropathy, and osteoporosis. Immunotherapies can cause specific immune-related effects most commonly in the gastrointestinal tract, endocrine system, skin, and liver. Pain should be screened for and requires assessment of potential causes and non-pharmacological and pharmacological approaches to management. Common psychosocial issues, for which there are effective psychological therapies, include fear of recurrence, fatigue, altered sleep and cognition, and effects on sex and intimacy, finances, and employment. Review of lifestyle factors including smoking, obesity, and alcohol is necessary to reduce the risk of recurrence and second cancers. Exercise can improve quality of life and might improve cancer survival; it can also contribute to the management of fatigue, pain, metabolic syndrome, osteoporosis, and cognitive impairment. Using a supportive care screening tool, such as the Distress Thermometer, can identify specific areas of concern and help prioritise areas to cover in a consultation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jon Emery
- Centre for Cancer Research and Department of General Practice, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Phyllis Butow
- PoCoG and CeMPED, School of Psychology SoURCe, Institute of Surgery, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Larissa Nekhlyudov
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Meg Rynderman
- Australian Cancer Survivorship Centre, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael Jefford
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Health Services Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
77
|
Jang S, Lee CU, Hesley GK, Knudsen JM, Brinkman NJ, Tran NV. Lymphatic Mapping Using US Microbubbles before Lymphaticovenous Anastomosis Surgery for Lymphedema. Radiology 2022; 304:218-224. [PMID: 35380494 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.212351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) surgery is an effective surgical treatment of secondary lymphedema in the extremities, but indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescent lymphography, the reference standard for imaging target lymphatic vessels, has several limitations. More effective methods are needed for preoperative planning. Purpose To evaluate whether contrast-enhanced US (CEUS) can be used to identify target lymphatic vessels for LVA surgery in patients with secondary upper extremity lymphedema and compare the results with those from ICG fluorescent lymphography. Materials and Methods In this single-center retrospective review, CEUS with intradermal injection of microbubbles was performed in patients before LVA surgery in the upper extremities between October 2019 and September 2021. All patients had secondary upper extremity lymphedema from breast cancer treatment. Technical success rate was defined as lymphatic vessels identified with use of CEUS that led to successful LVAs. Descriptive statistics were used. Results All 11 patients were women (mean age, 56 years ± 8 [SD]). The median number of microbubble injection sites was 11 (range, 8-14). CEUS helped identify lymphatic vessels in all 11 women, including in six women in whom ICG fluorescent lymphography could not be performed or failed to help identify any targets. Thirty-five explorations (median, three per patient; range, two to four) were performed, and 24 LVAs (median, three per patient; range, zero to four) were created. Of the anastomoses, 33% (eight of 24) were mapped with use of both CEUS and ICG fluorescent lymphography, 58% (14 of 24) with CEUS only, and 8% (two of 24) with ICG fluorescent lymphography only. Among the 33 explorations on targets mapped with CEUS, an anastomosis could be made at 22 sites, for a technical success rate of 67%. Seven women had at least one additional LVA created from the use of CEUS. Conclusion Contrast-enhanced US is a promising tool for identifying lymphatic vessels in the upper extremities, especially when indocyanine green fluorescent lymphography fails to depict targets or cannot be used. Published under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Jang
- From the Departments of Radiology (S.J., C.U.L., G.K.H., J.M.K.), Pharmacy (N.J.B.), and Plastic Surgery (N.V.T.), Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
| | - Christine U Lee
- From the Departments of Radiology (S.J., C.U.L., G.K.H., J.M.K.), Pharmacy (N.J.B.), and Plastic Surgery (N.V.T.), Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
| | - Gina K Hesley
- From the Departments of Radiology (S.J., C.U.L., G.K.H., J.M.K.), Pharmacy (N.J.B.), and Plastic Surgery (N.V.T.), Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
| | - John M Knudsen
- From the Departments of Radiology (S.J., C.U.L., G.K.H., J.M.K.), Pharmacy (N.J.B.), and Plastic Surgery (N.V.T.), Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
| | - Nathan J Brinkman
- From the Departments of Radiology (S.J., C.U.L., G.K.H., J.M.K.), Pharmacy (N.J.B.), and Plastic Surgery (N.V.T.), Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
| | - Nho V Tran
- From the Departments of Radiology (S.J., C.U.L., G.K.H., J.M.K.), Pharmacy (N.J.B.), and Plastic Surgery (N.V.T.), Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
| |
Collapse
|
78
|
Scaglioni MF, Meroni M, Fritsche E. Soft Tissue Defect Reconstruction and Lymphatic Complications Prevention: The Lymphatic Flow-Through (LyFT) Concept. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58040509. [PMID: 35454348 PMCID: PMC9024656 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58040509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: When a lymphatic-rich area is severely damaged, either after trauma or a surgical procedure, both soft tissue defect reconstruction and lymphatic drainage restoration are necessary. In this setting, we aim to show the potential of the lymphatic flow-through flap (LyFT) concept, which might be an attractive new solution to reduce postoperative lymphatic complications. Materials and Methods: Between 2018 and 2021, 12 patients presenting a soft tissue defect involving damage to the lymphatic drainage pathway received a lymphatic flow-through flap for volume and lymphatic drainage restoration. Different flaps were employed: 3 pedicled superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flaps, 2 free SCIP flaps, 3 pedicled deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps, 2 pedicled vertical posteromedial thigh (vPMT) flaps, and 2 pedicled anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps. A range of 1 to 3 lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) with flap’s veins was performed (mean 1.9). For a better dead space obliteration, an additional vastus lateralis muscle flap was performed in one case. Indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography was used in all cases to identify the lymphatic pathway, make the preoperative markings, and check the patency of the anastomoses. Results: In all cases, the reconstructive results were satisfactory from both the functional and aesthetic points of view. No secondary surgeries were required, and only one minor complication was encountered: an infected seroma that was managed conservatively. The mean follow-up was 9.9 months (range 6–14 months). Conclusions: Lymphatic flow-through flaps seem to effectively reduce the risk of lymphatic complications after the reconstruction of soft tissue defects with a compromised lymph pathway. This is a versatile solution that might be used in different body regions resorting to different flap types.
Collapse
|
79
|
Şahinoğlu E, Ergin G, Karadibak D. The efficacy of change in limb volume on functional mobility, health-related quality of life, social appearance anxiety, and depression in patients with lower extremity lymphedema. Phlebology 2022; 37:200-205. [DOI: 10.1177/02683555211061011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Objectives This study aims to investigate the impact of change in limb volume on the levels of functional mobility, health-related quality of life, social appearance anxiety, and depression before and after complex decongestive physiotherapy in patients with lower extremity lymphedema. Method Twenty-seven patients with unilateral lower extremity lymphedema were included. The treatment period was 20 sessions. The outcome measures were the limb volume, the Timed Up and Go test, the Short Form-36, the Social Appearance Anxiety Scale, and the Beck Depression Inventory. Results A statistically significant decrease in the limb volume ( p < 0.001) and statistically significant improvements in the Timed Up and Go test performance ( p < 0.001), the Short Form-36 Physical Component Summary score ( p < 0.01), the Social Appearance Anxiety Scale score ( p < 0.001), and the Beck Depression Inventory score ( p < 0.001) were found. No statistically significant difference was found on the Short Form-36 Mental Component Summary score ( p > 0.05). Conclusion The decrease in the limb volume improves the functional mobility, physical health-related quality of life, social appearance anxiety, and depression in patients with lower extremity lymphedema, but not the mental health-related quality of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ertan Şahinoğlu
- Dr İsmail Atabek Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Center, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Gülbin Ergin
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, İzmir Bakircay University, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Didem Karadibak
- School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Dokuz Eylül University, İzmir, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
80
|
Omura M, Saito W, Akita S, Yoshida K, Yamaguchi T. In Vivo Quantitative Ultrasound on Dermis and Hypodermis for Classifying Lymphedema Severity in Humans. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2022; 48:646-662. [PMID: 35033402 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2021.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the ability of in vivo quantitative ultrasound (QUS) assessment to evaluate lymphedema severity compared with the gold standard method, the International Society of Lymphology (ISL) stage. Ultrasonic measurements were made around the middle thigh (n = 150). Radiofrequency data were acquired using a clinical scanner and 8-MHz linear probe. Envelope statistical analysis was performed using constant false alarm rate processing and homodyned K (HK) distribution. The attenuation coefficient was calculated using the spectral log-difference technique. The backscatter coefficient (BSC) was obtained by the reference phantom method with attenuation compensation according to the attenuation coefficients in the dermis and hypodermis, and then effective scatterer diameter (ESD) and effective acoustic concentration (EAC) were estimated with a Gaussian model. Receiver operating characteristic curves of QUS parameters were obtained using a linear regression model. A single QUS parameter with high area under the curve (AUC) differed between the dermis (ESD and EAC) and hypodermis (HK) parameters. The combinations with ESD and EAC in the dermis, HK parameters in the hypodermis and typical features (dermal thickness and echogenic regions in the hypodermis) improved classification performance between ISL stages 0 and ≥I (AUC = 0.90 with sensitivity of 75% and specificity of 91%) in comparison with ESD and EAC in the dermis (AUC = 0.82) and HK parameters in the hypodermis (AUC = 0.82). In vivo QUS assessment by BSC and envelope statistical analyses can be valuable for non-invasively classifying an extremely early stage of lymphedema, such as ISL stage I, and following its progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masaaki Omura
- Center for Frontier Medical Engineering, Chiba University, Chiba, Chiba, Japan; Faculty of Engineering, University of Toyama, Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Wakana Saito
- Department of Medical Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Chiba University, Chiba, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Akita
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kenji Yoshida
- Center for Frontier Medical Engineering, Chiba University, Chiba, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tadashi Yamaguchi
- Center for Frontier Medical Engineering, Chiba University, Chiba, Chiba, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
81
|
The effects of gravity and compression on interstitial fluid transport in the lower limb. Sci Rep 2022; 12:4890. [PMID: 35318426 PMCID: PMC8941011 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09028-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Edema in the limbs can arise from pathologies such as elevated capillary pressures due to failure of venous valves, elevated capillary permeability from local inflammation, and insufficient fluid clearance by the lymphatic system. The most common treatments include elevation of the limb, compression wraps and manual lymphatic drainage therapy. To better understand these clinical situations, we have developed a comprehensive model of the solid and fluid mechanics of a lower limb that includes the effects of gravity. The local fluid balance in the interstitial space includes a source from the capillaries, a sink due to lymphatic clearance, and movement through the interstitial space due to both gravity and gradients in interstitial fluid pressure (IFP). From dimensional analysis and numerical solutions of the governing equations we have identified several parameter groups that determine the essential length and time scales involved. We find that gravity can have dramatic effects on the fluid balance in the limb with the possibility that a positive feedback loop can develop that facilitates chronic edema. This process involves localized tissue swelling which increases the hydraulic conductivity, thus allowing the movement of interstitial fluid vertically throughout the limb due to gravity and causing further swelling. The presence of a compression wrap can interrupt this feedback loop. We find that only by modeling the complex interplay between the solid and fluid mechanics can we adequately investigate edema development and treatment in a gravity dependent limb.
Collapse
|
82
|
Lasso JM, Alonso-Farto JC. Indocyanine green-guided liposuction for patients presenting with residual nonpitting edema after lymphovenous anastomosis. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2022; 75:2482-2492. [PMID: 35387757 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2022.02.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lymphovenous anastomoses (LVA) techniques for the treatment of lymphedema are well defined, and results restoring lymph function are reported in the literature. However, unsatisfactory results (poor-responders) are common, leading to persistent nonpitting edema. Blind liposuction eliminates fat and fibrous tissue but may result in inadvertent damage to the lymph vessel system. Indocyanine green imaging of the lymphatic system provides the potential preservation of functioning lymphatics while conducting liposuction to address the excess adipose and fibrous tissue in these patients. Our study reports the results of a prospectively conducted technique in patients with nonpitting edema after failing previous LVA. It consists of indocyanine green-guided liposuction. PATIENTS AND METHOD Twenty poor-responders patients to LVA who presented with persistent nonpitting edema were operated with liposuction. Limb volume measurements, SPECT-CT/lymphoscintigraphy, and ICG lymphography were recorded and complemented with a satisfaction inquiry. RESULTS The overall percentage of volume reduction was 46.2% after liposuction (p = 0.001). None of our patients reported any set back with respect to the improvements they had achieved after LVA nor new infections. Satisfaction showed a mean improvement of 5 points in a 20-point scale. SPECT-CT/lymphoscintigraphy showed further improvements in 17 cases after liposuction, such as dermal back-flow reduction, spots along the lymphatic system, or lymph nodes not described in preoperative reports, without showing significant differences when compared with overall volume reduction (p = 0.12). CONCLUSION Controlled liposuction with ICG seems to be an effective technique for the reduction of residual non-pitting edema in poor responder patients after LVA. Overall, volume excess reduction after liposuction was 42.6%.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J M Lasso
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hospital Genertal Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Spain.
| | - J C Alonso-Farto
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
83
|
Liao CD, Kuruvilla AS, Krajewski A. A scoping literature review of post-traumatic lymphedema: Where are we now? J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2022; 75:2387-2440. [PMID: 35341707 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2022.02.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Post-traumatic lymphedema of the extremities is a significant source of morbidity largely unrecognized by practitioners. Given the unclear body of evidence on diagnosing and managing post-traumatic lymphedema, we performed a systematic scoping review of the literature for all reports on this topic in order to establish a benchmark for current knowledge, treatment modalities, patient outcomes, and future areas of research. After screening 733 titles and abstracts, 16 relevant articles were ultimately selected for analysis, producing 19 data entries. Study designs largely consisted of case reports and case series. The most frequently reported injuries included burns (n = 12), motor vehicle accidents (n = 7), degloving injuries (n = 6), and open tibial fractures (n = 4). A majority of patients were managed with compression therapy. Among patients pursuing surgical intervention, 15 underwent free tissue transfer and 2 underwent lymphovenous anastomoses. All patients had clinical improvement of their lymphedema.With clinical advances in our understanding of lymphedema and its medical and surgical treatments, it is critical that we identify patients in a timely manner to be able to provide them with the best medical care as well as identify areas of future research. We believe that patients with post-traumatic lymphedema are currently largely unrecognized and that collaboration as well as further research will allow for optimized outcomes in this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D Liao
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, NY 11794, United States.
| | - Annet S Kuruvilla
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, NY 11794, United States
| | - Aleksandra Krajewski
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, NY 11794, United States
| |
Collapse
|
84
|
Pal S, Rahman J, Mu S, Rusch NJ, Stolarz AJ. Drug-Related Lymphedema: Mysteries, Mechanisms, and Potential Therapies. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:850586. [PMID: 35308247 PMCID: PMC8930849 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.850586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The lymphatic circulation is an important component of the circulatory system in humans, playing a critical role in the transport of lymph fluid containing proteins, white blood cells, and lipids from the interstitial space to the central venous circulation. The efficient transport of lymph fluid critically relies on the rhythmic contractions of collecting lymph vessels, which function to “pump” fluid in the distal to proximal direction through the lymphatic circulation with backflow prevented by the presence of valves. When rhythmic contractions are disrupted or valves are incompetent, the loss of lymph flow results in fluid accumulation in the interstitial space and the development of lymphedema. There is growing recognition that many pharmacological agents modify the activity of ion channels and other protein structures in lymph muscle cells to disrupt the cyclic contraction and relaxation of lymph vessels, thereby compromising lymph flow and predisposing to the development of lymphedema. The effects of different medications on lymph flow can be understood by appreciating the intricate intracellular calcium signaling that underlies the contraction and relaxation cycle of collecting lymph vessels. For example, voltage-sensitive calcium influx through long-lasting (“L-type”) calcium channels mediates the rise in cytosolic calcium concentration that triggers lymph vessel contraction. Accordingly, calcium channel antagonists that are mainstay cardiovascular medications, attenuate the cyclic influx of calcium through L-type calcium channels in lymph muscle cells, thereby disrupting rhythmic contractions and compromising lymph flow. Many other classes of medications also may contribute to the formation of lymphedema by impairing lymph flow as an off-target effect. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the evidence regarding potential mechanisms of drug-related lymphedema with an emphasis on common medications administered to treat cardiovascular diseases, metabolic disorders, and cancer. Additionally, although current pharmacological approaches used to alleviate lymphedema are largely ineffective, efforts are mounting to arrive at a deeper understanding of mechanisms that regulate lymph flow as a strategy to identify novel anti-lymphedema medications. Accordingly, this review also will provide information on studies that have explored possible anti-lymphedema therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soumiya Pal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Jenat Rahman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Shengyu Mu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Nancy J. Rusch
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Amanda J. Stolarz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
- *Correspondence: Amanda J. Stolarz,
| |
Collapse
|
85
|
Diagnosis and conservative management of primary lymphedema resulting from multiple aplastic lymphocenters in a dog. Top Companion Anim Med 2022; 49:100651. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tcam.2022.100651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
|
86
|
Finkelstein ER, Ha M, Hanwright P, Ngaage LM, Yoon JS, Liang F, Nam AJ, Rasko YM. A Review of American Insurance Coverage and Criteria for the Conservative Management of Lymphedema. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord 2022; 10:929-936. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2022.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
|
87
|
Mello DF, Assef JC, Helene-Jr A. Lymphocintilographic evaluation of lymphatic circulation in victims of circuferential degloving injuries of the lower limbs. Rev Col Bras Cir 2022; 49:e20222981. [PMID: 35239850 PMCID: PMC10578790 DOI: 10.1590/0100-6991e-20222981] [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: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION secondary forms of lymphedema may occur as consequence of tumors, surgeries, radiotherapy, trauma and infections. Degloving injuries are severe and infrequent forms of trauma, with avulsion at the level of muscular fascia, and consequent injury of the lymphatic system. OBJECTIVE to evaluate the alterations in lymphatic circulation in patients being victims of circumferential degloving injuries in the lower limbs, using lymphoscintigraphic. PATIENTS AND METHODS retrospective analysis of the cases treated in the period from 2010 to 2016. Segmental, circumferential and unilateral injuries with involvement of the lower limbs were included. Lymphoscintigraphy was performed after a minimum interval of 12 months after the end of treatment. The non-injured lower limb was used as control. The Kleinhans Semiquantitative Index (KSI) was used for the semiquantitative evaluation of the lymphoscintigraphic findings. RESULTS eighteen patients were evaluated, six of whom were female and 12 were male. The mean age was 28.11 years. The average vertical extension of the circumferential traumatized segment was 29.33cm. The injured area presented variations of 5 to 15% of the body surface, with an average of 8.95%. Lymphoscintigraphy was performed after an average interval of 22.55 months. Alterations were observed on the traumatized limb (TL) in 13 patients. All control limbs (CL) were normal. The mean KSI observed in TL was 8.32, while in CL, the average value was 0.58 (p<0.001). CONCLUSION patients with circumferential degloving injuries in the lower limbs present compromised lymphatic circulation and high probability to develop lymphedema.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Francisco Mello
- - Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo, Serviço de Cirurgia Plástica - São Paulo - SP - Brasil
| | - Jose Cesar Assef
- - Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo, Serviço de Emergência - São Paulo - SP - Brasil
| | - Americo Helene-Jr
- - Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo, Serviço de Cirurgia Plástica - São Paulo - SP - Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
88
|
Surgical resection of regional lymph node metastases in soft tissue sarcoma may not result in improved long-term survival. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PLASTIC SURGERY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00238-021-01930-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
89
|
Will PA, Wan Z, Seide SE, Berner JE, Kneser U, Gazyakan E, Hirche C. Supermicrosurgical treatment for lymphedema: a systematic review and network meta-analysis protocol. Syst Rev 2022; 11:18. [PMID: 35105375 PMCID: PMC8805248 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-022-01885-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lymphedema is a condition that affects up to 130 million subjects worldwide. Since it is related to several complications and a significant reduction in terms of quality of life, it is a heavy burden not only to the patients but also for the healthcare system worldwide. Despite the development of supermicrosurgery, such as vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) and lymphovenous anastomosis LVA, the indications and outcomes of these complex groups of interventions remain a controversial topic in the field of reconstructive plastic surgery. METHODS This systematic review and network meta-analysis aims to assess the evidence of outcomes of LVA and VLNT in patients with lymphedema. Secondary aims of the project are to determine if for any outcomes, LVA or VLNT is superior to conservative therapy alone, and whether the available evidence favors any kind of supermicrosurgical interventions for lymphedema patients. This study will include original studies of patients with lymphedema on the extremities indexed in PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL, PASCAL, FRANCIS, ISTEX, LILACS, CNKI, and IndMED that reported microsurgery (supermicrosurgery) of all techniques aiming the re-functionalization of the lymphatic system. As comparators, mere observation, conservative treatment of any kind, and the other subgroups of supermicrosurgery are planned. The primary outcome of this systematic review and network meta-analysis is the difference of the limb volume, while the secondary outcomes of interest will be erysipelas rates, major and minor complications, postoperative necessity of continuous compression garments, and patient satisfaction, measured by already published and validated scores for quality of life. DISCUSSION We will provide an overview and evidence grade analysis of the scientific literature available on the effectiveness of the subcategories of supermicrosurgical interventions for lymphedema.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick A Will
- Department of Hand, Plastic, and Reconstructive Surgery, Microsurgery, Burn Centre, BG Trauma Center Ludwigshafen, Ludwig Guttmann Str. 13, 67071, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany.
- Medical Faculty of the University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Zhenzhen Wan
- Medical Faculty of the University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Svenja E Seide
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Informatics, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Juan Enrique Berner
- Kellogg College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The Royal London Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ulrich Kneser
- Department of Hand, Plastic, and Reconstructive Surgery, Microsurgery, Burn Centre, BG Trauma Center Ludwigshafen, Ludwig Guttmann Str. 13, 67071, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany
- Medical Faculty of the University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Emre Gazyakan
- Department of Hand, Plastic, and Reconstructive Surgery, Microsurgery, Burn Centre, BG Trauma Center Ludwigshafen, Ludwig Guttmann Str. 13, 67071, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany
- Medical Faculty of the University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christoph Hirche
- Department of Plastic, Hand, and Reconstructive Microsurgery, BG-Trauma Hospital Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
90
|
Pierazzi DM, Arleo S, Faini G. Distally Prophylactic Lymphaticovenular Anastomoses after Axillary or Inguinal Complete Lymph Node Dissection Followed by Radiotherapy: A Case Series. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58020207. [PMID: 35208531 PMCID: PMC8880594 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58020207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Lymphedema is an important and underestimated condition, and this progressive chronic disease has serious implications on patients’ quality of life. The main goal of research would be to prevent lymphedema, instead of curing it. Patients receiving radiotherapy after lymph node dissection have a significantly higher risk of developing lymphedema. Through the prophylactic use of microsurgical lymphaticovenular anastomoses in selected patients, we could prevent the development of lymphedema. Materials and Methods: Six patients who underwent prophylactic lymphaticovenular anastomoses in a distal site to the axillary or groin region after axillary or inguinal complete lymph node dissection followed by radiotherapy were analyzed. Patients characteristics, comorbidities, operative details, postoperative complications and follow-up assessments were recorded. Results: Neither early nor late generic surgical complications were reported. We observed no lymphedema development throughout the post-surgical follow-up. In particular, we observed no increase in limb diameter measured at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Conclusion: In our experience, performing LVA after axillary or groin lymphadenectomy and after adjuvant radiotherapy, and distally to the irradiated area, allows us to ensure the long-term patency of anastomoses in order to obtain the best results in terms of reducing the risk of iatrogenic lymphedema. This preliminary report is encouraging, and the adoption of our approach should be considered in selected patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diletta Maria Pierazzi
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, “Santa Maria alle Scotte” Hospital, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Sergio Arleo
- Department of Plastic Surgery, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Gianpaolo Faini
- Operative Unit of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Department of Surgery, ASST Valle Camonica, 25040 Brescia, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
91
|
Feldman KW, Wielechowski A, Divine K. Use of Kinesio® taping and manual lymphatic drainage to manage traumatic edema and ecchymosis post arthroscopic meniscectomy in a recreational weightlifter: A case report. Physiother Theory Pract 2022; 39:1061-1070. [PMID: 35086430 DOI: 10.1080/09593985.2022.2029991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have reported success of edema management with manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) or Kinesio® taping. However, there is limited evidence investigating the use of a combination of the two postoperatively and evidence is conflicting due to limitations of published trials. The purpose of this case report was to describe the utilization of MLD and Kinesio® taping in the physical therapy (PT) management of edema and ecchymosis post-arthroscopic meniscectomy. CASE DESCRIPTION A 51 year-old male was referred to PT 10 days after meniscectomy. He presented with increased edema that was not atypical secondary to a suspected saphenous vein injury. Severe edema and ecchymosis began 24 hours after surgery, which led to pain and decreases in range of motion (ROM) and difficulty with gait. Interventions for edema management consisted of MLD, Kinesio® taping and therapeutic exercise. OUTCOMES The patient was seen for five visits over 10 days for edema management that resulted in decreases in girth and pain and increases in ROM and the Lower Extremity Functional Scale, and Patient Specific Functional Scale. He was able to sleep, return to the gym, and squat without pain. DISCUSSION Following MLD and Kinesio® taping in conjunction with therapeutic exercises, edema and ecchymosis were reduced allowing for improved function acutely. Early and aggressive edema management postoperatively should be considered to optimize patient outcomes. This case demonstrated early management of edema facilitated increases in ROM and ease of patient-specific activities and decreased pain in five visits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyle W Feldman
- ReShape Physical Therapy, Winchester, VA, USA.,Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, USA
| | | | - Kate Divine
- Univeristy of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
92
|
Brown S, Dayan JH, Coriddi M, Campbell A, Kuonqui K, Shin J, Park HJ, Mehrara BJ, Kataru RP. Pharmacological Treatment of Secondary Lymphedema. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:828513. [PMID: 35145417 PMCID: PMC8822213 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.828513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lymphedema is a chronic disease that results in swelling and decreased function due to abnormal lymphatic fluid clearance and chronic inflammation. In Western countries, lymphedema most commonly develops following an iatrogenic injury to the lymphatic system during cancer treatment. It is estimated that as many as 10 million patients suffer from lymphedema in the United States alone. Current treatments for lymphedema are palliative in nature, relying on compression garments and physical therapy to decrease interstitial fluid accumulation in the affected extremity. However, recent discoveries have increased the hopes of therapeutic interventions that may promote lymphatic regeneration and function. The purpose of this review is to summarize current experimental pharmacological strategies in the treatment of lymphedema.
Collapse
|
93
|
Kapellas N, Demiri E, Lampropoulos A, Dionyssiou D. Genetic Predisposition in Cancer-Related Lymphedema: A Systematic Review. Lymphat Res Biol 2022; 20:478-487. [PMID: 35029515 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2021.0081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Lymphedema is a debilitating and progressive clinical entity characterized by abnormal accumulation of lymph and fluid in the extracellular space. Most of the cases in western population are related to cancer treatment. Research on cancer-related lymphedema (CRL) is mounting for potential risk factors associated to disease, treatment, or patient. However, only a few cancer survivors with the same risk factors will develop lymphedema, giving rise to the hypothesis that inherited genetic susceptibility may play a role in CRL pathophysiology. This systematic review aimed to identify, critically appraise, and summarize the results of individual studies that have examined the genetic predisposition to CRL. Methods and Results: A comprehensive literature search in MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Scopus was conducted from inception to February 2021. Screening of available studies and quality of the included studies were carried out by two reviewers independently. Eight studies fulfilled eligibility criteria, involving 573 women with breast-cancer related lymphedema (BCRL) among 1,481 participants. Associations between the development of CRL and genetic factors were observed for variations in 23 genes in patients with BCRL. Conclusions: The present systematic review is the first examining specifically the genetic predisposition in CRL. Statistically significant genetic variations were found in 23 genes in patients with BCRL. These preliminary findings highlight the importance of genetic susceptibility in the development of CRL, altering the traditional perception of its iatrogenic etiology. Additional well-designed research, aiming toward the confirmation of previously performed genetic analyses and functional assessment of the genetic variations, is required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Kapellas
- Department of Plastic Surgery, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Efterpi Demiri
- Department of Plastic Surgery, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Alexandros Lampropoulos
- 1st Laboratory of Medical Biology and Genetics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Dionyssiou
- Department of Plastic Surgery, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
94
|
Lee DG, Lee S, Kim KT. Computed Tomography-Based Quantitative Analysis of Fibrotic Changes in Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue in Lower Extremity Lymphedema Following Gynecologic Cancer Surgery. Lymphat Res Biol 2022; 20:488-495. [PMID: 35012367 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2021.0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Lymphedema produces protein-rich fluids that aggravate inflammation in the skin and subcutaneous tissue. Inflammation then induces fibroadipose tissue deposition and fibrosis. However, few methods have been developed to evaluate the severity of fibrosis. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the subcutaneous fibrotic changes in lower extremity lymphedema following gynecologic cancer surgery using an image analysis tool, the FIJI software. Methods and Results: Seventy-four patients with lymphedema following gynecologic surgery were enrolled in this study. We quantitatively analyzed the cross-sectional area (CSA) of soft tissue compartments, including subcutaneous tissue with the skin, muscle volume, fibrotic changes in subcutaneous tissue, and the perimeter of skin boundaries. The limb circumference and the CSA of the subcutaneous tissue and skin on the affected side were significantly larger than those on the unaffected side. Fibrotic changes showed the same trend. However, muscle volume patterns were different from those of the other compartments. Some patients showed lower muscle volume on the unaffected side than on the affected side. Circumference and cellulitis significantly affected the extent of fibrotic changes in the skin and subcutaneous tissues. Age and duration of lymphedema did not affect fibrosis. Conclusion: Fibrosis of subcutaneous regions with the skin can be quantitatively calculated using an image analysis tool in lower extremity lymphedema following gynecologic cancer surgery. Edema and cellulitis increase fibrotic changes in the subcutaneous tissue with the skin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong Gyu Lee
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Soyoung Lee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Keimyung University Dongsan Hospital, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung Tae Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Keimyung University Dongsan Hospital, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
95
|
Rainer WG, Kolz JM, Wyles CC, Houdek MT, Perry KI, Lewallen DG. Lymphedema Is a Significant Risk Factor for Failure After Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2022; 104:55-61. [PMID: 34637411 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.20.01970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lymphedema is a chronic disease characterized by fluid buildup and swelling that can lead to skin and soft-tissue fibrosis and recurring soft-tissue infections. Literature with regard to the increased risk of complications following a surgical procedure in patients with lymphedema is emerging, but the impact of lymphedema in the setting of primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to review outcomes following primary THA performed in patients with lymphedema compared with a matched cohort without lymphedema. METHODS Using our institutional total joint registry and medical records, we identified 83 patients (57 were female and 26 were male) who underwent THA with ipsilateral lymphedema. For comparison, these patients were matched 1:6 (based on sex, age, date of the surgical procedure, and body mass index [BMI]) to a group of 498 patients without lymphedema who underwent primary THA for osteoarthritis. Subsequently, postoperative complications and implant survivorship were evaluated for each group. The mean follow-up for each group was 6 years. Survivorship was compared between cohorts using Kaplan-Meier methodology and included both survivorship free of infection and survivorship free of reoperation or revision. Univariate Cox regression analysis was utilized to assess the association between patient factors for the time to event outcomes noted above. RESULTS In patients with a history of lymphedema, there was an increased risk of complications (hazard ratio [HR], 1.97; p < 0.01), including reoperation for any cause (HR, 3.16; p < 0.01) and postoperative infection (HR, 4.48; p < 0.01). The 5-year infection-free survival rate was 90.3% for patients with lymphedema compared with 97.7% for patients without lymphedema (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Patients with lymphedema are at increased risk for complications, including reoperation and infection, following primary THA. These data emphasize the importance of appropriate preoperative counseling in this population and should encourage efforts to identify methods to improve outcomes, including further investigation of the effects of preoperative optimization of lymphedema prior to THA and methods for improved perioperative management. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William G Rainer
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
96
|
Coriddi M, Kim L, McGrath L, Encarnacion E, Brereton N, Shen Y, Barrio AV, Mehrara B, Dayan JH. Accuracy, Sensitivity, and Specificity of the LLIS and ULL27 in Detecting Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema. Ann Surg Oncol 2022; 29:438-445. [PMID: 34264409 PMCID: PMC8958312 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-021-10469-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Breast cancer-related lymphedema occurs in up to 30% of women following axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) and less commonly following sentinel lymph node biopsy. To quantify disability in these patients, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) have proven useful; however, given the overlap of symptoms between ALND and lymphedema, examination of their accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity in detecting lymphedema in breast cancer patients undergoing ALND is needed. METHODS The Lymphedema Life Impact Scale (LLIS) and the Upper Limb Lymphedema 27 scale (ULL27) were administered to patients who had undergone ALND at least 2 years prior and either did or did not develop lymphedema. Survey responses and the degree of disability were compared to generate receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves, and the sensitivity and specificity of PROMs to diagnose lymphedema were analyzed. RESULTS Both PROMs were highly accurate, sensitive, and specific for detecting lymphedema. The LLIS had an accuracy of 97%, sensitivity of 100%, and specificity of 84.8% at a cutoff of ≥ 5.88 overall percent impairment score (higher scores indicate worse disability). The ULL27 had an accuracy of 93%, sensitivity of 88.6%, and specificity of 90.9% at a cutoff of ≤ 83.3 global score (lower scores indicate worse disability). CONCLUSIONS The LLIS and the ULL27 appear to be highly specific for lymphedema and capable of differentiating it from symptoms resulting from ALND alone. Our findings suggest that use of these questionnaires with a threshold may be effective for diagnosing lymphedema, potentially reducing the need for frequent clinic visits and time-consuming measurements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Coriddi
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Leslie Kim
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Leslie McGrath
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Elizabeth Encarnacion
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Nicholas Brereton
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Yin Shen
- Department of Epidemiology-Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Andrea V. Barrio
- Breast Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Babak Mehrara
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Joseph H. Dayan
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| |
Collapse
|
97
|
Budylin GS, Davydov DA, Zlobina NV, Baev AV, Artyushenko VG, Yakimov BP, Shirshin EA. In vivo sensing of cutaneous edema: A comparative study of diffuse reflectance, Raman spectroscopy and multispectral imaging. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2022; 15:e202100268. [PMID: 34661967 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.202100268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Quantitative noninvasive assessment of water content in tissues is important for biomedicine. Optical spectroscopy is potentially capable of solving this problem; however, its applicability for clinical diagnostics remains questionable. The presented study compares diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and multispectral imaging in the characterization of cutaneous edema. The source-detector geometries for each method are selected based on Monte Carlo simulations results to detect the signal from the dermis. Then, the kinetics of the edema development is studied for two models. All methods demonstrate synchronous trends for histamine-induced edema: The water content reaches a maximum of 1 hour after histamine application and then gradually decreases. For the venous occlusion, a 51% increase in water content is observed with Raman spectroscopy. The differences in water content estimation by three methods are explained based on the light propagation model. The obtained results are essential for introducing quantitative optical water measurement technology to the clinics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gleb S Budylin
- Medical Research and Education Center, M. V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Spectroscopy of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- World-Class Research Center "Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare", Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Denis A Davydov
- Medical Research and Education Center, M. V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- Faculty of Physics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Nadezhda V Zlobina
- Medical Research and Education Center, M. V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- Faculty of Physics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexey V Baev
- Faculty of Physics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Boris P Yakimov
- Medical Research and Education Center, M. V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- World-Class Research Center "Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare", Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
- Faculty of Physics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Evgeny A Shirshin
- Medical Research and Education Center, M. V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- World-Class Research Center "Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare", Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
- Faculty of Physics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
98
|
Elhadi M, Khaled A, Msherghi A. Infectious diseases as a cause of death among cancer patients: a trend analysis and population-based study of outcome in the United States based on the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Infect Agent Cancer 2021; 16:72. [PMID: 34972537 PMCID: PMC8719405 DOI: 10.1186/s13027-021-00413-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Infectious diseases are a major cause of morbidity and mortality among cancer patients. We aimed to determine the incidence of infectious diseases as a cause of death among cancer patients and analyze the trends and risk factors associated with mortality. Methods In total, 151,440 cancer patients who died from infectious diseases in the US diagnosed between 1973 and 2014 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program were enrolled. A trend analysis of annual cancer deaths caused by infectious diseases was conducted. Cox proportional hazards model and survival decision tree model were performed. Result The most common infectious diseases were pneumonia and influenza (n = 72,133), parasitic and other infectious (n = 47,310) diseases, and septicemia (n = 31,119). The patients’ mean age was 66.33 years; majority of them were male (62%). The overall incidence from 1973 to 2014 showed an insignificant decrease (annual percentage change = − 0.3, 95% confidence interval [CI] = − 2.2–1.7, P = 0.8). Parasitic and other infectious diseases, including HIV (standardized incidence ratio [SIR] = 1.77, 95% CI = 1.69–1.84), had the highest incidence, followed by septicemia (SIR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.81–0.88), tuberculosis (SIR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.51–0.99), and pneumonia (SIR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.61–0.64). Based on the Cox regression analysis, old black male patients with intrahepatic tumor or acute leukemia of different grades, except the well-differentiated grade, had the highest risk of dying from infectious diseases. Conclusion Infectious diseases remain the major cause of morbidity and mortality among cancer patients. Early recognition of risk factors and timely intervention may help mitigate the negative consequences on patients’ quality of life and prognosis, improving the prognosis and preventing early death from infection, which is preventable in most cases. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13027-021-00413-z.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammed Elhadi
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tripoli, Tripoli, 13275, Libya.
| | - Ala Khaled
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tripoli, Tripoli, 13275, Libya
| | - Ahmed Msherghi
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tripoli, Tripoli, 13275, Libya
| |
Collapse
|
99
|
Wagner JM, Dadras M, Ufton D, Huber J, Wallner C, Sogorski A, von Glinski M, Hong JP, Lehnhardt M, Behr B. Prophylactic lymphaticovenous anastomoses for resection of soft tissue tumors of the thigh to prevent secondary lymphedema-a retrospective comparative cohort analysis. Microsurgery 2021; 42:239-245. [PMID: 34951055 DOI: 10.1002/micr.30850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with soft tissue tumors of extremities are at risk to develop secondary lymphedema after tumor resection caused by disruption of lymphatic vessels and sclerosis. Subsequently, this study aimed to evaluate the beneficial effects of lymphaticovenous anastomoses (LVAs) after soft tissue tumor resection of the thigh in a prophylactic approach. METHODS In a retrospective cohort study, we compared eight patients with a median age of 68.5 years (49-80) who received LVAs in combination with tumor resection for treatment of soft tissue tumors of the thigh region with a prior cohort of 20 patients with a median age of 63.0 years (23-84) who received soft tissue sarcoma resection of the thigh region. All patients of LVA cohort received 1-2 LVAs (mean 1.25 ± 0.49) at the dorsum of the foot and three patients at the SEKI-point (mean 0.375 ± 0.51). Mean maximum tumor diameter of LVA group was 19.5 ± 5.2 cm and 12.3 ± 6.6 cm of control group. All patients receiving LVA were assessed for development of lymphedema via bilateral measurements of circumference and assessment of lymphedema quality of life index (LyQLI). RESULTS One of the eight patients who received LVAs showed moderate impairment in the LyQLI at a follow-up of 12 months while 45% of the control cohort complained about symptoms of secondary lymphedema at a median follow-up of 22 months (p-values LyQLI: p = .018 [physical domain]; p = .018 [psychosocial domain]; p = .020 [practical domain]). CONCLUSION LVAs performed in combination with tumor resection of thigh soft tissue tumors reduce negative consequences of lymph stasis and prevent development of secondary lymphedema.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Maximilian Wagner
- Department of Plastic Surgery, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Mehran Dadras
- Department of Plastic Surgery, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Dominic Ufton
- Department of Plastic Surgery, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Julika Huber
- Department of Plastic Surgery, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Christoph Wallner
- Department of Plastic Surgery, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Alexander Sogorski
- Department of Plastic Surgery, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Maxi von Glinski
- Department of Plastic Surgery, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Joon Pio Hong
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Marcus Lehnhardt
- Department of Plastic Surgery, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Björn Behr
- Department of Plastic Surgery, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
100
|
Menzer C, Aleisa A, Wilson BN, Musthaq S, Rossi A. Efficacy of laser CO 2 treatment for refractory lymphedema secondary to cancer treatments. Lasers Surg Med 2021; 54:337-341. [PMID: 34837392 DOI: 10.1002/lsm.23498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Lymphedema is a frequent debilitating condition among cancer patients. Daily supportive treatment may be necessary without long-term improvement. We describe two cases with chronic refractory lymphedema treated with fractional 10,600 nm CO2 laser. A 61-year-old female with locally advanced cervical cancer presented with postsurgical edematous swelling of the vulva and mons pubis and recurring cellulitis due to chronic lymphangiectasia. After six treatments of fractional CO2 laser, she noticed an 80% reduction of lymphorrea, swelling, and frequency of cellulitis. A 32-year old melanoma patient presented with refractory right lower leg lymphedema post right inguinal lymph node dissection and radiation. After fractional CO2 laser, she noted increased softness of her inguinal scar and a decrease of the lower leg edema. Fractional CO2 laser may be useful in addressing chronic refractory lymphedema. Further research should confirm our findings to consider fractional laser as a standard method in the treatment of chronic lymphedema.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Menzer
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Abdullah Aleisa
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Britney N Wilson
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Shenara Musthaq
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Anthony Rossi
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA.,Department of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|