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Kumegawa S, Sakata Y, Fujimoto K, Takagaki Y, Yamada G, Asamura S. Effectiveness of lymphaticovenular anastomosis for adult-onset primary lower limb lymphedema: A retrospective study. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2024; 91:191-199. [PMID: 38422920 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2024.01.008] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surgical treatments such as lymphaticovenular anastomosis (LVA) are widely used in addition to conservative treatment of secondary lymphedema. However, their indications and effectiveness for primary lymphedema are unclear. This study aims to objectively demonstrate the effectiveness of LVA for adult-onset primary lymphedema from various perspectives. METHODS We retrospectively examined patients with primary lower limb lymphedema who underwent LVA between January 2018 and December 2021 and were 21 or older. Treatment effects were evaluated using lymphoscintigraphy, questionnaires, body mass index, extracellular fluid ratio, and lymphedema index preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. The LVA was performed under general anesthesia. RESULTS We evaluated 11 patients (11 lower limbs). Out of seven patients with complete obstruction preoperatively, all presented partial obstruction according to the Taiwan Lymphoscintigraphy Staging classification with a significant decrease in the score. Significant improvements were observed in clinical symptoms ("hardness") and in quality of life ("appearance" and "ease of wearing compression garments") assessments. A significant change was observed in the extracellular water ratio but not in lower extremity lymphedema index (LELindex). CONCLUSION LVA was suggested as one of the potential treatment options for patients with adult-onset primary lymphedema in whom lymphatic flow was confirmed by lymphoscintigraphy. In addition to clinical symptoms and physical examination, the evaluation of adult-onset primary lymphedema should include the patient's quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinji Kumegawa
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan.
| | - Yasuhiro Sakata
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Kota Fujimoto
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | | | - Gen Yamada
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Shinichi Asamura
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
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Endo Y, Sano M, Kayama T, Inuzuka K, Saito T, Katahashi K, Yamanaka Y, Tsuyuki H, Ishikawa N, Naruse E, Takeuchi H, Unno N. The Usefulness of a Three-Microneedle Device for Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Lymphography. Lymphat Res Biol 2023; 21:396-402. [PMID: 36802287 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2022.0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence lymphography is widely used to diagnose lymphedema. There is little consensus on the appropriate injection method for ICG fluorescence lymphangiography. We used a three-microneedle device (TMD) for skin injection of ICG solution and investigated its usefulness. Methods and Results: Thirty healthy volunteers were injected with ICG solution using a 27-gauge (27G) needle in one foot and a TMD in the other foot. Injection-related pain was evaluated using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) and Face Rating Scale (FRS). The skin depth of the injected ICG solution was evaluated by injecting the solution into the skin of amputated lower limbs using a 27G needle or TMD using ICG fluorescence microscopy. The median and interquartile range of the NRS scores was 3 (3-4) and 2 (2-4) in the 27G needle and TMD groups, respectively; that of the FRS scores was 2 (2-3) and 2 (1-2) in the 27G needle and TMD groups, respectively. Injection-related pain was significantly lower with the TMD than with the 27G needle. The lymphatic vessels were similarly visible using both needles. The depth of the ICG solution varied for each injection with a 27G needle (400-1200 μm) and was consistent at ∼300-700 μm below the skin surface using the TMD. Injection depth was significantly different between the 27G needle and the TMD. Conclusions: Injection-related pain decreased using the TMD, and ICG solution depth was consistent on fluorescence lymphography. A TMD may be useful for ICG fluorescence lymphography. Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR; ID: UMIN000033425).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Endo
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
- Second Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Masaki Sano
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
- Second Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Takafumi Kayama
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
- Second Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Kazunori Inuzuka
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
- Second Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Takaaki Saito
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
- Second Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Kazuto Katahashi
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
- Second Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Yuta Yamanaka
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
- Second Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Hajime Tsuyuki
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
- Second Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Nozomu Ishikawa
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
- Second Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Hamamatsu Medical Center, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Ena Naruse
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
- Second Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Hiroya Takeuchi
- Second Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Naoki Unno
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
- Second Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Hamamatsu Medical Center, Hamamatsu, Japan
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Son JH, Min JH, Kim IH, Lee SY, Lee CH. The Clinical Usefulness of Ultrasonographic Measurement Technique in Patients with Lower Extremity Lymphedema. Lymphat Res Biol 2023; 21:20-27. [PMID: 35763325 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2021.0089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: A previous study reported a new ultrasonography (US) measurement technique to evaluate the cross-sectional area (ΔCSA) of lymphedema in the upper extremity. This ΔCSA correlated well with parameters, such as the circumference, volumetry, and bioimpedance analysis (BIA) in healthy people and upper extremity lymphedema patients. This study examined whether a US measurement technique is clinically useful in patients with lymphedema in the lower extremity. Methods and Results: Forty patients diagnosed with unilateral lower extremity lymphedema were enrolled in this study. The subjects' leg circumference, BIA, isokinetic strength, and ΔCSA were examined on the same day. The leg circumference was measured at 15 cm above the knee (AK) and below the knee (BK) crease using a tape measure. BIA was performed by a trained physical therapist, and the data of impedance (Z) at 1 and 5 kHz of each side of the lower limbs and extracellular water (ECW) were used. A fully experienced physician measured soft tissue thickness, the distance between the skin and the fascia of the muscle, three times each at the anterior, medial, posterior, and lateral aspects of the bilateral legs by US at 15 cm AK and BK. The amount of soft tissue in the ΔCSA was calculated using the designed formula from the mean values of the thicknesses. Each parameter was calculated as the ratio of the sound side to the lesion side. The Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficients were used to assess the significance of these parameters. The ratio of ΔCSA measured at 15 cm AK and BK showed strong positive correlations with the circumference difference at the same level (rho = 0.790, p = 0.000, and rho = 0.882, p = 0.000, respectively). In addition, it showed moderate or strong correlations with the ratio of Z at 5 and 1 kHz in the BIA of the lower limbs (AK15, r = -0.511, p = 0.001 and r = -0.497, p = 0.001; BK15, r = -0.780, p = 0.000 and r = -0.756, p = 0.000, respectively). Although ECW and body mass index showed weak positive correlations with the ratio of ΔCSA measured at 15 cm BK, there was no significant correlation between the ratio of ΔCSA and the isokinetic muscle strength. Conclusion: The ΔCSA results showed moderate-to-strong correlations with other conveniently used methods except for the isokinetic muscle strength. As the US ΔCSA technique could measure lymphedema status with a structural consideration, it could also be recommended as a conventional measurement method in patients with upper and lower extremity lymphedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju Hyun Son
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Hong Min
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea.,Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea.,Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - In Hye Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo Yoon Lee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Hyung Lee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea.,Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea.,Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
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Sedbon T, Azuelos A, Bosc R, D’Andrea F, Pensato R, Maruccia M, Meningaud JP, Hersant B, La Padula S. Spontaneous Lymph Flow Restoration in Free Flaps: A Pilot Study. J Clin Med 2022; 12:jcm12010229. [PMID: 36615028 PMCID: PMC9821224 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12010229] [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: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oncologic excision and trauma can be responsible for major defects and lymphedema. Free flaps are commonly used for reconstruction. We aimed to determine if lymphatic flow between flap and recipient site can be restored without lymphatic surgery. METHODS 15 free flaps were performed in different patients in our center. Infrared-based lymphography was used to plan surgery. Indocyanine green (ICG) was injected in the flap's subdermal tissue and also at the edges of the skin defect. Circumferential lymphatic channels were marked 5 min after the ICG injection. Fluorescent images were recorded with an infrared camera system. The flap inset was obtained by putting side to side the flap markings and the recipient site markings. Infrared-based lymphography was performed on every patient one year after surgery. Spontaneous lymph flow restoration was judged positive if lymphatic connections were observed between the flap and the recipient site. RESULTS seven free ALT and eight DIEP flaps were performed. All ALT flaps were designed following the limb axis which is the lymphatic axiality. Spontaneous lymph flow restoration was observed for the seven ALT flaps. Eight DIEP flaps were designed upside down and one was designed following the lymph axiality. Spontaneous lymph flow restoration was only observed for the one designed following the lymph axiality. CONCLUSIONS designing reconstructive free flap regarding lymph axiality seems to improve spontaneous lymph flow restoration between flap and recipient site without any specific lymphatic surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Théo Sedbon
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Maxillo Facial Surgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, University Paris XII, 51 Avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, 94000 Créteil, France
| | - Arié Azuelos
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Maxillo Facial Surgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, University Paris XII, 51 Avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, 94000 Créteil, France
| | - Romain Bosc
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Maxillo Facial Surgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, University Paris XII, 51 Avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, 94000 Créteil, France
| | - Francesco D’Andrea
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Università Degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Rosita Pensato
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Università Degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Michele Maruccia
- Unit of Plastic, Reconstructive Surgery and Burn Center, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Jean Paul Meningaud
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Maxillo Facial Surgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, University Paris XII, 51 Avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, 94000 Créteil, France
| | - Barbara Hersant
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Maxillo Facial Surgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, University Paris XII, 51 Avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, 94000 Créteil, France
| | - Simone La Padula
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Maxillo Facial Surgery, Henri Mondor Hospital, University Paris XII, 51 Avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, 94000 Créteil, France
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Università Degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italy
- Correspondence:
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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.
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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;
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Yoshida S, Koshima I, Imai H, Roh S, Mese T, Uchiki T, Sasaki A, Nagamatsu S. Lymphaticovenous Anastomosis for Age-Related Lymphedema. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10215129. [PMID: 34768657 PMCID: PMC8584733 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10215129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Primary lymphedema is usually caused by intrinsic disruption or genetic damage to the lymphatics but may also be the result of age-related deterioration of the lymphatics. The aims of this study were to determine the characteristics of age-related lymphedema and to assess the effectiveness of lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) in its treatment. METHODS Eighty-six patients with primary lymphedema affecting 150 lower limbs were divided into three groups according to whether the age of onset was younger than 35 years, 35-64 years, or 65 years or older. Indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography was performed, followed by LVA surgery. ICG lymphography images were visually classified according to whether the pattern was linear, low enhancement (LE), distal dermal backflow (dDB), or extended dermal backflow (eDB). The lower extremity lymphedema (LEL) index score was calculated before and after LVA. Lymphatic vessel diameter and detection rates were also recorded. RESULTS In the ≥65 group, the lymphedema was bilateral in 54 patients and unilateral in 1 patient. There was statistically significant deterioration in the LEL index score with progression from the linear, LE, dDB through to the eDB pattern in the ≥65 group. The lymphatic vessel diameter was significantly greater in the ≥65 group. The rate of improvement was highest in the ≥65 group. CONCLUSION Age-related lymphedema was bilateral and deterioration started distally. The lymphatic vessels in patients with age-related lymphedema tended to be ectatic, which is advantageous for LVA and may increase the improvement rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhei Yoshida
- The International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3, Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan; (I.K.); (H.I.); (S.R.); (T.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-82-257-5555
| | - Isao Koshima
- The International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3, Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan; (I.K.); (H.I.); (S.R.); (T.M.)
| | - Hirofumi Imai
- The International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3, Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan; (I.K.); (H.I.); (S.R.); (T.M.)
| | - Solji Roh
- The International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3, Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan; (I.K.); (H.I.); (S.R.); (T.M.)
| | - Toshiro Mese
- The International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3, Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan; (I.K.); (H.I.); (S.R.); (T.M.)
| | - Toshio Uchiki
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3, Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 739-8551, Japan; (T.U.); (A.S.); (S.N.)
| | - Ayano Sasaki
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3, Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 739-8551, Japan; (T.U.); (A.S.); (S.N.)
| | - Shogo Nagamatsu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3, Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 739-8551, Japan; (T.U.); (A.S.); (S.N.)
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Suzuki Y, Kajita H, Oh A, Urano M, Watanabe S, Sakuma H, Imanishi N, Tsuji T, Jinzaki M, Kishi K. Photoacoustic lymphangiography exhibits advantages over near-infrared fluorescence lymphangiography as a diagnostic tool in patients with lymphedema. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord 2021; 10:454-462.e1. [PMID: 34352419 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2021.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) is a new technique that can evaluate the vascular system using photoacoustic effects. The present study compared the ability of the new photoacoustic lymphangiography (PAL) method and more standard near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) to image the lymphatic system in patients with secondary lymphedema following gynecological cancer surgery. METHODS Patients with secondary lymphedema in the lower extremities following gynecologic cancer surgery, who were assessed using PAL between May 2018 and January 2019 were recruited. NIRF was performed first using 5.0 mg/mL of indocyanine green injected using a 0.2-cc 30-gauge needle. Correlations between NIRF and PAL findings on patient images were subsequently examined. RESULTS Seventeen patients with secondary lymphedema were enrolled. The mean age of the patients was 61 ± 11 years. The imaging sites were the medial lower leg in 15 patients, the posterior lower leg in nine patients, the lateral lower leg in seven patients, the medial knee in four patients, and other areas in three patients. A total of 38 pictures were obtained. Five distinct lymphatic patterns were observed over the entire sample using PAL: straight, winding, spiderweb, nebulous, and black-out pattern Eighteen of the 24 limbs (75%) that exhibited a linear pattern in NIRF exhibited a straight pattern in PAL, and 19 of the 20 limbs (95%) that exhibited a splash pattern in NIRF exhibited a winding or spider web pattern in PAL. Eight limbs exhibiting diffuse patterns without linear or splash patterns with NIRF were all nebulous or black-out patterns in PAL. This suggests that more severe lymphatic degeneration was associated with poorer visualization in PAL. CONCLUSIONS NIRF plays an important role in lymphedema treatment. In the present study, various PAL patterns were compared with those observed using NIRF. PAL provided clearer images including transectional views, which were not available using NIRF, and may promote further understanding of the changes in the lymphatic structure and function in patients with secondary lymphedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yushi Suzuki
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Hiroki Kajita
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Anna Oh
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Moemi Urano
- Department of Anatomy, Keio University School of Medicine
| | - Shiho Watanabe
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hisashi Sakuma
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tokyo Dental College Ichikawa General Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | | | - Tetsuya Tsuji
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Jinzaki
- Department of Radiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuo Kishi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Suzuki Y, Kajita H, Oh A, Takemaru M, Sakuma H, Tsuji T, Imanishi N, Aiso S, Kishi K. Use of photoacoustic imaging to determine the effects of aging on lower extremity lymphatic vessel function. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord 2021; 10:125-130. [PMID: 34020108 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2021.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Aging is one of the causes of primary lymphedema. However, the effects of aging on the lymphatic system are still not completely understood. We investigated the effects of aging on the lymphatic vessels in the lower extremities of healthy volunteers using photoacoustic imaging. METHODS Healthy volunteers who underwent photoacoustic lymphangiography between March 2018 and January 2019 were enrolled. To visualize lymphatics, indocyanine green (ICG, 5.0 mg/mL) was injected subcutaneously into the first and fourth web spaces of the foot and under the lateral malleolus. Subsequently, near-infrared fluorescence lymphography was performed to confirm good ICG flow, and photoacoustic lymphangiography was performed on the medial side of the lower leg. Neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser irradiation at 797 and 835 nm, the optimal wavelengths for visualizing ICG and blood, was applied. The number of lymphatic vessels shown at areas 10 cm (L10) and 20 cm (L20) cranially from the internal malleolus was counted. RESULTS Nineteen healthy volunteers (4 males and 15 females) were enrolled in the study. Their mean age was 42.9 ± 12.8 years. One volunteer was bilaterally imaged; 15 left lower limbs and 5 right lower limbs were imaged. The number of lymphatic vessels visualized increased with age. There were strong positive correlations between age and L10 (R = 0.729, P < .001) and between age and L20 (R = 0.570, P = .009). CONCLUSIONS Photoacoustic imaging indicates that the number of lymphatic vessels increases with age. Lymphatic stasis resulted in visualization of not only normal drainage pathways but also nonfunctional lymphatic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yushi Suzuki
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Hiroki Kajita
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Anna Oh
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masashi Takemaru
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Yokohama Municipal Citizen Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hisashi Sakuma
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tokyo Dental College Ichikawa General Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Tsuji
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuaki Imanishi
- Department of Anatomy, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sadakazu Aiso
- Department of Anatomy, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan; Luxonus Inc, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Kazuo Kishi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Reply. JOURNAL OF VASCULAR SURGERY CASES INNOVATIONS AND TECHNIQUES 2021; 7:403. [PMID: 34278069 PMCID: PMC8261474 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvscit.2021.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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10
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Yoshida S, Koshima I, Imai H, Uchiki T, Sasaki A, Fujioka Y, Nagamatsu S, Yokota K, Harima M, Yamashita S. Combined Lymphovenous Anastomosis and Great Saphenous Vein Stripping for Comorbid Lymphedema and Varicose Veins. Lymphat Res Biol 2021; 20:213-219. [PMID: 33794104 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2019.0076] [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] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Treatment for patients with comorbid lymphedema and varicose veins is controversial. Surgical options for these patients are limited. The study was aimed to investigate the validity of combined lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) and great saphenous vein stripping (GSVS) for comorbid lymphedema and varicose veins. Patients and Methods: Thirteen patients were involved in the study, and the detail was 21 edematous lower limbs (with coexisting varicose veins and lymphedema; the varicose vein and lymphedema [VL] group) who underwent combined GSVS and LVA therapy. Fifteen patients (with 30 edematous lower limbs and lymphedema only; the lymphedema [L] group) who underwent LVA only were included as a control group. GSVS was performed before LVA in the VL group. Results: No significant differences were seen between the groups at baseline. There were no cases indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography pattern deteriorated after GSVS. No significant difference was seen in lymphatic detection rate; 129.71% ± 58.27% (67%-333%) in the VL group and 122.27% ± 39.47% (50%-250%) in the L group (p = 0.59 > 0.05), respective lymphatic diameters 0.66 ± 0.13 (0.45-0.9) mm and 0.75 ± 0.17 (0.45-1.0) mm (p = 0.07 > 0.05), and respective lymphedema improvement rate 12.17% ± 7.35% (0%-27.4%) and 12.65% ± 7.43% (3.7%-22.3%) (p = 0.86 > 0.05). Discussion: In this study, stripping surgery does not cause lymphatic impairment, at least to the extent that would impede the success of an LVA procedure. Comorbid varicose veins and lymphedema can be treated surgically by a combination of LVA and GSVS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhei Yoshida
- The International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Isao Koshima
- The International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Imai
- The International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Toshio Uchiki
- Plastic and reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Ayano Sasaki
- Plastic and reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yumio Fujioka
- Plastic and reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Shogo Nagamatsu
- Plastic and reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kazunori Yokota
- Plastic and reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Mitsunobu Harima
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tokyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuji Yamashita
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tokyo University, Tokyo, Japan
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Yoshida S, Koshima I, Imai H, Uchiki T, Sasaki A, Fujioka Y, Nagamatsu S, Yokota K, Harima M, Yamashita S, Tashiro K. Characteristics and outcomes of lymphaticovenular anastomosis in older patients with bilateral involvement versus younger patients with unilateral involvement in lower extremity lymphedema. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord 2019; 8:646-657. [PMID: 31843479 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2019.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We have previously reported that patients with idiopathic primary lymphedema of adult onset can be classified into an older group with bilateral involvement and a younger group with unilateral involvement and that there are significant differences in the characteristics of these groups. The aims of this study were to investigate the features of these two groups further by evaluating the lymphatics while performing lymphaticovenular anastomosis (LVA) and to compare the effectiveness of LVA between the two groups. METHODS This study enrolled 74 patients (136 edematous legs) in whom indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography and LVA were performed. The rate of detection and the diameter of the lymphatic vessels were recorded. The lower extremity lymphedema index (the total sum of the squares of the circumference for five areas in each leg divided by the body mass index) was obtained before and 6 months after LVA. The rate of improvement in the affected lower limbs after LVA was also calculated. RESULTS The clinical lymphedema pattern was determined to be bilateral in 62 patients and unilateral in 12. Patients with bilateral lymphedema were significantly older than those with unilateral lymphedema (77.1 ± 7.8 years vs 55.5 ± 12.77 years; P < .01). A linear pattern was seen in 23 patients (46 legs), a low enhancement (LE) pattern in 12 patients (24 legs), a distal dermal backflow (dDB) pattern in 20 patients (40 legs), and an extended dermal backflow (eDB) pattern in 7 patients (14 legs). The lymphedema was unilateral in 12 patients (12 legs). There were significant between-group differences in lymphatic diameter in relation to lower leg area: linear (0.9 ± 0.1 mm) vs dDB (0.7 ± 0.2 mm), linear vs eDB (0.7 ± 0.2 mm), linear vs unilateral (0.5 ± 0.1 mm), LE (0.9 ± 0.2 mm) vs dDB, LE vs eDB, LE vs unilateral, and dDB vs unilateral, P < .01; and eDB vs unilateral, P < .05. There were also significant between-group differences in the rate of improvement in the lower extremity lymphedema index according to the ICG lymphography pattern and laterality: linear (10.5% ± 2.4%) vs unilateral (6.7% ± 0.6%), LE (10.4% ± 1.5%) vs unilateral, dDB (11.0% ± 1.3%) vs eDB (8.9% ± 1.5%), and dDB vs unilateral, P < .01; linear vs eDB, P < .05; and eDB vs unilateral, P < .05. CONCLUSIONS The lymphatic vessel diameter tended to be greater in older patients with bilateral lymphedema than in younger patients with unilateral lymphedema. The rate of detection and improvement tended to decrease with worsening of the ICG lymphography pattern. LVA is thought to be more effective in older patients with early-stage bilateral lower leg lymphedema than in their younger counterparts with late-stage unilateral lymphedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhei Yoshida
- International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.
| | - Isao Koshima
- International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Imai
- International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Toshio Uchiki
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Ayano Sasaki
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yumio Fujioka
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Shogo Nagamatsu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kazunori Yokota
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Mitsunobu Harima
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tokyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuji Yamashita
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tokyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kensuke Tashiro
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
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