Preventing Secondary Lymphedema: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Efficacy of Immediate Lymphovenous Anastomosis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Secondary lymphedema is a debilitating condition following oncologic lymphadenectomy. Despite advancements in rehabilitation and microsurgical interventions, there is no cure for lymphedema. Performing a lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) at the time of a regional node dissection has been purported to reduce the risks of secondary lymphedema; however, there are conflicting studies and no clear consensus about the routine use of LVA for preventing lymphedema after lymphadenectomy. The present study aims to perform a comprehensive review and meta-analysis on immediate LVA for the prevention of secondary lymphedema.

Methods

A systematic review and literature search were performed using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases. Studies evaluating primary or

SUBMITTER: Hinson C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12455550 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature