Interventional Management of Acquired Lymphatic Disorders

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Lymphatic System Anatomy
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• The lymphatic system is vital for fluid balance and immunity.
• Disruptions to the lymphatic system can lead to severe morbidity and mortality.
• Diagnosing and managing lymphatic leaks presents significant challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review conventional and variant lymphatic anatomy.
• To discuss recent advances in lymphatic imaging and interventional techniques.
• To highlight the critical role of radiology in managing lymphatic disorders.

Main Methods:

• Review of diagnostic techniques, including MR lymphangiography.
• Detailed summary of percutaneous lymphangiography and lymphatic intervention techniques (transpedal, transnodal).
• Outline of traditional and newer interventional approaches (transabdominal, retrograde, transhepatic, thoracic duct embolization/stent placement).

Main Results:

• Conventional and variant lymphatic anatomy are detailed.
• Advances in diagnostic imaging like MR lymphangiography are presented.
• Percutaneous and transjugular techniques for lymphatic intervention are outlined.

Conclusions:

• Radiology is essential for the multidisciplinary management of lymphatic disorders.
• Understanding lymphatic anatomy and modern techniques is vital for effective patient treatment.
• Diagnostic and interventional radiologists play a key role in managing acquired lymphatic disorders.