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Increased lymphoscintigraphic flow pattern in the lower extremity under evaluation for lymphedema
1Section of Nuclear Medicine, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
Mayo Clinic Proceedings
|May 1, 1997
Summary
Postoperative lower limb edema in four patients showed increased lymphatic flow on lymphoscintigraphy. This may indicate lymphatic channel disturbance following surgery, not necessarily normal lymphatic function.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear medicine
- Lymphatic system imaging
- Postoperative complications
Background:
- Lower limb edema is a common postoperative complication.
- Lymphatic system plays a crucial role in fluid balance and immune function.
- Lymphoscintigraphy is a valuable tool for assessing lymphatic system integrity.
Observation:
- Four patients with unilateral lower extremity swelling post-surgery were studied.
- Lymphoscintigraphy using 99mTc-sulfur colloid was performed.
- All patients exhibited increased lymphatic flow in the edematous limb.
Findings:
- Increased lymphatic flow was observed in all patients with lower limb edema after surgery.
- One patient showed an abnormal dermal backflow pattern, suggesting lymphatic dysfunction.
- Pre-existing venous or arterial abnormalities were present in some patients.
Implications:
- Increased lymphatic flow post-surgery may reflect lymphatic channel disturbance rather than normal function.
- Surgical intervention can disrupt proximal lymphatic channels.
- Sympathetic innervation may influence lymphatic response to trauma or surgery.