How To Effectively Treat Lymphedema

Lymphaticovenous Anastomosis

Lymphaticovenous anastomosis is a surgical procedure used to help treat the fluid accumulation in individuals affected by moderate to severe lymphedema. Lymphedema patients have a malfunction or mechanism that results in the blockage or absence of the proper lymph vessels and lymph nodes required for adequate lymph fluid drainage. Lymphaticovenous anastomosis is a technique that connects lymph lines to nearby veins so they can adequately drain fluid into the bloodstream. During this procedure, the surgeon locates the lymphatic channels that experience accumulation using lymphoscintigraphy and ICG lymphography. Then, numerous small incisions are made in the limb affected by fluid buildup in the area where the lymph vessels are located. The surgeon then carefully connects the affected lymph channels to several veins within close proximity. This portion of the procedure is done with a technique called superfine microsurgery because the lymph vessels have an extremely small diameter. Lymphaticovenous anastomosis has shown to be a successful long term solution for lymphedema patients.

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Low-Level Laser Therapy

Low-level laser therapy is a method used in the treatment of some lymphedema patients. Low-level laser therapy is administered with a small handheld medical device by a medical professional. This device delivers a spot or scanning form of low-intensity wavelengths to the target area. The infra-red laser device is placed on the skin in the affected area for short periods. The waves are able to penetrate deep into the patient's body tissues where nearby cells can absorb and convert it into a form of energy. This energy assists with several processes that reduce the effects of lymphedema. These processes augmented by low-level laser therapy include the stimulation of the formation of new lymphatic vessels stemming from lymphatic channels that already exist. This therapeutic method also enhances the ability of lymph fluid to move and circulate throughout the body properly. Low-level laser therapy has also been effective in decreasing the severity and overall occurrence of lymphatic fibrosis or scarring. This method is able to help with softening tissues that have already become fibrotic.

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