A new vascularized cervical lymph node transplantation model: an anatomic study in rats

Area of Science:

• Microsurgery
• Vascularized tissue transplantation
• Animal modeling

Background:

• Vascularized lymph node transfer is a promising treatment for lymphedema.
• Existing small animal models for lymph node transplantation are limited.
• A reliable experimental model is needed to advance lymphedema research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish and describe a new rat model for vascularized cervical lymph node transplantation.
• To detail the surgical technique and anatomical considerations for creating the lymph node flap.
• To validate the viability and vascularity of the transplanted lymph node flap.

Main Methods:

• Dissection of cervical lymph nodes in Sprague-Dawley rats.
• Harvesting of lymph node flaps utilizing the common carotid artery and jugular vein as vascular pedicles.
• Confirmation of lymph node perfusion using methylene blue dye and laser-assisted indocyanine green angiography, alongside histological evaluation.

Main Results:

• Successful creation of a vascularized lymph node flap containing 5-6 lymph nodes.
• Demonstrated adequate blood supply and even dye dissemination within the lymph nodes, confirming a robust vascular network.
• Histological examination verified the integrity of the lymph nodes, and angiography confirmed flap perfusion.

Conclusions:

• This study presents the first reported vascularized lymph node flap in the rat head and neck region.
• The described technique yields a viable lymph node flap suitable for transplantation.
• This model is valuable for future research in lymphedema, transplantation immunology, and tolerance/rejection mechanisms.