Abstract
Lymphedemas due to a blockage of the lymph vessels in the root of the extremities were treated experimentally and clinically by autotransplantation of lymph vessels under the operating microscope. In experimental lymphedema of the hind leg of 10 dogs, an increased circumference of about 50% was reduced to 10% within 7 weeks by lymph vessel transplantation. After removal of the transplants, the circumferences returned to pre-transplantation values. The pre-transplantation elevated intralymphatic pressure of 12.5 torr (controls: 2.5 torr) was reduced to the normal range of 3.5 torr after the transplantation. In 8 of 10 dogs, the patency of the transplants could be demonstrated by inspection, lymphography, and isotope injections. In all 10 dogs, patency could be proved by histologic examination. The data indicate that lymph vessel transplantation can restore the diminished lymph-transporting capacity brought on by lymphedema.
In 2 patients, it was possible to prepare lymph collectors about 25 cm long. After the transplantation, the circumferences diminished. By isotopes improved lymphatic transport could be demonstrated after the operation. Autologous transplantation of lymph vessels is a promising method for the treatment of secondary lymphedema especially in the early stages.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
References
Földi, M.: Physiology and pathophysiology of lymphflow. In Lymphedema, L. Clodius, editor, Stuttgart, Georg Thieme Publishers, 1977, pp. 1–11
Clodius, L., Wirth, W.: A new experimental model for chronic lymphedema of the extremities. Chir Plast (Berl.)2:115, 1974
Baumeister, R.G.H., Seifert, J., Wiebecke, B.: Transplantation of lymph vessels on rats as well as a first therapeutic application on the experimental lymphedema of the dog. Eur. Surg. Res.12[Suppl. 2]:7, 1980
Olszewski, W.L.: Collection and physiological measurements of peripheral lymph and interstitial fluid in man. Lymphology10:137, 1977
Clodius, L.: The experimental basis for the surgical treatment of lymphedema. In Lymphedema, L. Clodius, editor, Stuttgart, Georg Thieme Publishers, 1977, pp. 43–77
Olszewski W.: On the pathomechanism of development of postsurgical lymphedema. Lymphology5:35, 1973
Casley-Smith, J.R.: A fine structural study of the removal of the effectiveness of benzo-pyrone treatment of lymphedema by the destruction of the macrophages by silica. Br. J. Exp. Pathol.59(2): 116, 1978
Piller, N.B.: Lymphedema, macrophages and benzopyrones. Lymphology13:109, 1980
Nielubowicz, J., Olszewski, W.: Surgical lymphovenous shunts for decompression of secondary lymphoedema. J. Cardiovasc. Surg. (Spec. Issue) 1966
O'Brien, B.M., Shafiroff, B.B.: Microlymphaticovenous and resectional surgery in obstructive lymphedema. World J. Surg.3:3, 1979
Degni, M.: New technique of lymphatic-venous anastomosis for the treatment of lymphedema. J. Cardiovasc. Surg. (Torino)19(5):577, 1978
Edwards, J.M., Kinmonth, J.B.: Lymphovenous shunt in man. Br. Med. J.4:579, 1969
Yamada, Y.: The study of lymphatic venous anastomosis in lymphedema. Nagoya J. Med.32:1969
Yoffey, J.M., Courtice, F.C.: Lymphatics, Lymph and the Lymphomyeloid Complex, London-New York, Academic Press, 1970
Clodius, L.: Invited commentary on “Microlymphaticovenous and resectional surgery in obstructive lymphedema.” World J. Surg.3:121, 1979
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Baumeister, R.G.H., Scifert, J., Wiebecke, B. et al. Experimental basis and first application of clinical lymph vessel transplantation of secondary lymphedema. World J. Surg. 5, 401–407 (1981). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01658013
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01658013