Wound healing and lymphedema: a new look at an old problem

As the science of wound healing has evolved in the past two decades, so has awareness of the "hidden epidemic" of lymphedema. Substantial information has been accumulated regarding the pathophysiology and therapy of lymphedema. However, until now, the relationship between wound care and lymphedema has received little attention. This review outlines this relationship and asserts that proper wound care demands attention to the related lymphedema. The differences between edema and lymphedema, as well as current evidence-based support defining the negative effect of lymphedema on wound healing, are discussed. The principles of compression therapy in wound related lymphedema also are addressed.