Lymphovenous bypass for the treatment of lymphedema

J Surg Oncol. 2018 Oct;118(5):743-749. doi: 10.1002/jso.25166. Epub 2018 Aug 11.

Abstract

Lymphovenous bypass (LVB) is a form of physiological lymphedema surgery, which was described decades ago, but recently it is gaining popularity with improved microsurgical technology available. Benefits of the procedure are its effectiveness in treating early stage lymphedema of either the upper or lower extremity and having low complication profile. In the following article, the history of the procedure, mechanism, and details of various LVB techniques, and outcomes will be discussed.

Keywords: lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA); lymphovenous bypass (LVB).

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anastomosis, Surgical*
  • Humans
  • Lymphatic Vessels / surgery*
  • Lymphedema / diagnostic imaging
  • Lymphedema / surgery*
  • Lymphography
  • Lymphoscintigraphy
  • Thrombosis / prevention & control
  • Veins / surgery*