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Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer for the Treatment of Lymphedema

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Lymphedema

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Abstract

Vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) has gained popularity over the last decade as a surgical treatment approach to chronic lymphedema. A flap containing lymph nodes is transplanted into an area of deficient lymphatic function to promote lymphangiogenesis, bridge the area of obstruction, and restore immunological function to the affected limb. VLNT to a lymphedematous extremity can significantly reverse the disease process while reducing its propensity for infection. In the upper extremity, it may also lead to improvement of brachial plexus neuropathies. When performed in appropriately selected patients, VLNT may obviate the need for lifelong massage therapy, compressive garments, and other supportive measures.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA

    Laurence S. Paek MD, Joseph M. Baylan MD & Dung H. Nguyen MD

  2. American Hospital of Paris, Paris, France

    Corrine Becker MD

Authors
  1. Laurence S. Paek MD
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  2. Joseph M. Baylan MD
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  3. Corrine Becker MD
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  4. Dung H. Nguyen MD
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Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Center for the Lymphedema and Vascular Malformations, Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA

    Byung-Boong Lee

  2. Falk Cardiovascular Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA

    Stanley G. Rockson

  3. La Jolla, California, USA

    John Bergan

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Paek, L.S., Baylan, J.M., Becker, C., Nguyen, D.H. (2018). Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer for the Treatment of Lymphedema. In: Lee, BB., Rockson, S., Bergan, J. (eds) Lymphedema. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-52423-8_50

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-52423-8_50

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-319-52421-4

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-319-52423-8

  • eBook Packages: MedicineMedicine (R0)

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