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Lymphatic Tissue Transplant in Lymphedema—A Minimally Invasive, Outpatient, Surgical Method: A 10-Year Follow-up Pilot Study

Irvine2 Vascular Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Chieti-Pescara University, San Valentino, Italy, Cardres{at}abol.it

Bruno M. Errichi, MD

Irvine2 Vascular Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Chieti-Pescara University, San Valentino, Italy

M. Rosaria Cesarone, MD

Irvine2 Vascular Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Chieti-Pescara University, San Valentino, Italy

Edmondo Ippolito, MD

Irvine2 Vascular Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Chieti-Pescara University, San Valentino, Italy

Mark Dugall, PhD

Irvine2 Vascular Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Chieti-Pescara University, San Valentino, Italy

Andrea Ledda, MD

Irvine2 Vascular Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Chieti-Pescara University, San Valentino, Italy

Andrea Ricci, MD

Irvine2 Vascular Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Chieti-Pescara University, San Valentino, Italy

Lymphedema is mainly characterized by swelling, fibrosis, and nonpitting edema. The aim of this study was evaluation of the long-term (10 years) effects of autologus lymphatic tissue implant in lymphedema. Lymphatic tissue from 9 patients (harvested form the same patient in areas not affected by lymphedema) was reimplanted into the affected limb, and these patients were followed for 10 years. Lymph nodes were harvested at the neck, axillary, or inguinal space (contralateral limb). Results showed that limb volume was decreased in the treatment group vs. controls. In ultrasound, black, low density, lymphatic spaces were visible in 100% of patients at inclusion but in only 23% of these subjects at 10 years. Thus, this early report proposes a new, minimally invasive method to improve lymphedema. Studies in progress will indicate the role of lymphatic transplant in the management of lymphedema and the best indications for this method.

Key Words: lymphatic tissue • lymph nodes • lymphedema • leg swelling • autologous tissue transplant • edema

Angiology, Vol. 59, No. 1, 77-83 (2008)
DOI: 10.1177/0003319707308564


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