Lymphaticovenous Anastomosis for Lower Extremity Lymphedema: A Systematic Review.

ABSTRACT: Background  Lymphedema is an accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the interstitial spaces resulting from impairment in the lymphatic circulation that can impair quality of life and cause considerable morbidity. Lower extremity lymphedema (LEL) has an overall incidence rate of 20%. Conservative therapies are the first step in treatment of LEL; however, they do not provide a cure because they fail to address the underlying physiologic dysfunction of the lymphatic system. Among several surgical alternatives, lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) has gained popularity due to its improved outcomes and less invasive approach. This study aims to review the published literature on LVA for LEL treatment and to analyze the surgical outcomes. Methods  PubMed database was used to perform a

SUBMITTER: Forte AJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7192660 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature