A Novel Protocol for Global Standardization in Upper Extremity Indocyanine Green Lymphography

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Lymphatic System Research
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Accurate imaging of the lymphatic system is vital for diagnosing and treating upper extremity lymphedema.
• Indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography is increasingly used but lacks standardized protocols.
• A systematic and reproducible method is needed for conducting, recording, and interpreting ICG lymphography findings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel, standardized protocol for upper extremity indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography.
• To address the need for systematic and reproducible methods in ICG lymphography.
• To improve the diagnosis and management of upper extremity lymphedema through standardized imaging.

Main Methods:

• The protocol details patient positioning, imaging setup, and ICG preparation/injection.
• It includes anatomical segmentation of the upper extremity into 10 regions for systematic imaging.
• Dynamic and delayed scanning procedures are defined, incorporating patient exercise during the interval.

Main Results:

• The protocol ensures consistency in image capture and reporting across different settings.
• It establishes a unified language for ICG lymphography, enhancing reproducibility and comparability.
• The systematic division into 10 anatomical regions facilitates standardized image analysis.

Conclusions:

• The developed upper extremity ICG lymphography protocol provides a comprehensive and standardized approach.
• This standardization improves consistency, efficiency, and comparability of findings.
• The protocol is adaptable and expected to enhance the diagnosis and management of upper extremity lymphedema.