LYMPHEDEMA

Lymphedema is a condition that refers to swelling that occurs in one of your arm or legs or sometimes both. This condition is caused due to ether the damage or removal of lymph nodes as a part of cancer treatment.

This results in the blockage of the lymphatic system. Lymphatic system is a part of our immune system. Due to the blockage the lymph fluid doesn’t drain well for this reason the fluid builds up and leads to swelling.

SYMPTOMS

  • Extreme pain or tenderness
  • Change in skin quality such as skin fibrosis
  • intermittent redness
  • excessive fat in the extremity
  • extreme swelling caused by lymphatic fluid

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Lymphaticovenous anastomosis 

This procedure is also known as lymphovenous bypass. The procedure is carried out using microsurgical techniques and equipment where damaged nodes are bypassed and the lymphatic channels are connected directly into the veins. This bypass is an outpatient surgery; you can return to your normal activities within few days.

Vascularized lymph node transfer surgery 

This procedure is also known as lymphovenous transplant. This procedure is carried out by transplanting a group of lymph nodes from a healthy part of your body to the affected area, this results in effectively rewiring the entire lymphatic system. It is inpatient procedure with a recovery period of few days before resuming regular activity.

Liposuction 

When surrounding tissue is also filled with lymphatic fluid it stimulates the fat cells to grow and also causes inflammation. In the procedure this extra fat is removed. It is an outpatient procedure and has a very short recovery time.

Charles procedure 

In other words known as skin grafts. Affected tissue is replaced and is used as a skin graft to repair the area. This procedure requires more extensive care after the procedure. It may take up to one month to return to your normal activities.

SIDE EFFECTS

  • Infections
  • Lymphangiosarcoma: it is a rare form of soft tissue cancer which can result from severe cases of untreated lymphedema. Possible signs of lymphangiosarcoma include purple or blue marks on the skin.