Educational Review: Management of Lymphedema-Approaches, Evidence for Surgical and Nonsurgical Interventions

  • 0Department of Surgery, Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
Annals of surgical oncology +

|

Abstract

BACKGROUND

We aim to review the current medical and surgical management strategies for lymphedema and present methods for their successful integration into clinical practice. In addition, the following summary background data is provided. Lymphedema is a chronic condition resulting from impaired lymphatic drainage, leading to significant morbidity and reduced quality of life. Traditional management includes conservative therapies such as compression garments and physical therapy. However, advancements in surgical techniques have opened new avenues for treatment. This review aims to synthesize the available literature on both medical and surgical approaches to lymphedema management.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This article explores the senior author's strategies and experiences in lymphedema treatment, supplemented by a literature review that supports the described techniques.

RESULTS

Effective lymphedema management is multifaceted, necessitating accurate diagnosis, medical treatment, and in some cases, surgical intervention. The senior author has sought to streamline his approach to this complex condition, and this article outlines his algorithm and techniques for treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

While conservative treatments remain the foundation of lymphedema management, surgical options in the properly selected patients have shown promising results. The integration of these approaches could enhance overall treatment efficacy and improve quality of life for individuals affected by lymphedema.

Related Concept Videos

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-V: Nursing Management 01:30

3.5K

Nursing management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is crucial for providing thorough care and support to patients. Nurses play an integral role in this process through detailed assessment, careful planning, targeted interventions, and ongoing evaluation. Here's an overview of the critical steps in nursing management for COPD.
Assessment

• Medical History Review: Nurses focus on risk factors like smoking, environmental exposures, and a history of respiratory issues or...

Pneumonia V: Nursing management and Prevention 01:30

1.8K

Nursing management of pneumonia involves promoting airway patency, facilitating rest and conserving energy, encouraging fluid intake, maintaining nutrition, and educating patients.
The nurse must practice strict medical asepsis and adhere to infection control guidelines to minimize healthcare-associated infections.
Enhance airway patency
Position the patient correctly to facilitate drainage of the affected lung segments. Manual or mechanical percussion and vibration can also be employed....

Nursing Diagnosis 01:22

2.5K

Following assessment, a nursing diagnosis is the next step in the nursing process. It begins after the nurse has collected and recorded the patient data. The purpose of diagnosing is to identify how the client responds to actual or potential health processes, identify factors that bestow or that cause health problems, the etiologies, and identify resources or strengths the individual, group, or community can draw on to prevent or resolve problems.
The nursing diagnosis focuses on evidence-based...

Pleural Effusion II: Symptoms and Management 01:28

144

Pleural Effusion Overview
A pleural effusion is the abnormal collection of fluid between the parietal and visceral pleura layers of tissue that form the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. It can occur independently or due to surrounding parenchymal diseases, such as infection, malignancy, or inflammatory conditions.
Clinical Manifestations:

• Pneumonia-Related Effusion: Patients may experience fever, chills, and pleuritic chest pain, indicative of an infection-related effusion.
...

Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care 01:29

52

The management of chronic pancreatitis is multifaceted, involving a comprehensive approach that includes thorough assessment, diagnostic testing, and a variety of management strategies.
Assessment:

Detailed History: Understanding the patient's symptoms is critical. It includes inquiring about abdominal pain, weight loss, and digestive issues, which are common in chronic pancreatitis.
Physical Examination: This might reveal abdominal tenderness, jaundice, and signs of malnutrition,...

Inflammatory Bowel Disease  V: Surgical Management 01:21

71

Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:

Strictureplasty
Proctocolectomy or total colectomy with ileostomy
Restorative proctocolectomy with Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis