Lymph node flap based on the right transverse cervical artery as a donor site for lymph node transfer

Area of Science:

• Microsurgery
• Vascularized lymph node transfer
• Lymphedema surgery

Background:

• Lymphedema is a chronic condition often requiring surgical intervention.
• Lymph node transfer is an emerging surgical technique for lymphedema management.
• The transverse cervical artery (TCA) provides a reliable vascular supply for lymph node flaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the surgical experience with harvesting lymph node flaps based on the right transverse cervical artery (TCA).
• To evaluate the feasibility and safety of TCA-based lymph node flaps for lymphedema treatment.
• To report preliminary outcomes of cervical lymph node transfer for secondary lower extremity lymphedema.

Main Methods:

• Harvesting 11 cervical lymph node flaps based on the right TCA over a 7-month period.
• Detailed anatomical assessment of the TCA and its variations.
• Surgical transfer of cervical lymph node flaps for secondary lower extremity lymphedema in 2 patients.

Main Results:

• Successful harvesting of 11 lymph node flaps based on the right TCA.
• The TCA offers reliable anatomy and a low donor site complication rate.
• Preliminary positive outcomes observed in the first 2 cases of lower extremity lymphedema treated with cervical lymph node transfer.

Conclusions:

• TCA-based cervical lymph node flaps are a viable and safe option for lymphedema surgery.
• Thorough knowledge of TCA anatomy is crucial for successful flap dissection.
• Cervical lymph node transfer shows potential for treating secondary lower extremity lymphedema.