Lymphedema Treatment in Chennai

Lymphedema surgery (or Lymph Node transplant) treats fluid buildup cases due to lymphatic damage. It improves limb function and reduces swelling. Candidates are often assessed based on lymphedema risk factors such as -  cancer treatment, obesity, and infection history. In addition to surgery, there are other management techniques and physical therapies that help improve the condition.

Lymph node transplant is an innovative surgical approach that addresses chronic lymphedema - a medical condition characterised by persistent swelling due to lymphatic fluid buildup. It is primarily used when conventional methods fail to provide relief. The condition usually develops due to cancer treatments like lymph node removal or radiation. At Gleneagles Hospitals, doctors use advanced microsurgical techniques for lymph node transplant - which aims at restoring the body’s natural lymphatic drainage. The procedure aims to restore lymphatic function, reduce swelling, and improve mobility, which offers a long-term solution compared to temporary relief provided by lymphedema conservative treatment.

Effective treatments and management depend on accurate and early lymphedema diagnosis. 

Lymph node transplant is a microsurgical treatment that involves transferring healthy lymph nodes along with their blood supply from one part of the body to the area affected by lymphedema. This helps promote the growth of new lymphatic channels, helping to restore lymphatic drainage and reduce swelling. It ensures proper blood flow to the transplanted nodes, which helps them to integrate and function effectively in the recipient site. 

It is beneficial for patients who have developed lymphedema after cancer treatments like lymph node dissection or radiation therapy. Lymphedema causes swelling, pain, and discomfort - which reduces mobility. The condition is commonly associated with cancer treatments, particularly breast cancer, where lymph node removal disrupts normal lymph drainage. Also, congenital conditions affecting lymphatic development can cause lymphedema. 

Common lymphedema symptoms are - swelling, heaviness, tightness, and restricted movement in the affected limb. In severe cases, the skin may harden and thicken - leading to an increase in discomfort and infections.

• Lymphaticovenular Anastomosis (LVA): LVA is a minimally invasive microsurgical procedure that connects lymphatic vessels directly to nearby venules, bypassing damaged or obstructed lymph nodes. This treatment method allows lymph fluid to drain directly into the venous system, which reduces swelling and discomfort. This is the best option for early-stage lymphedema when lymphatic vessels are still functional.
• Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT): VLNT involves transferring lymph nodes along with their blood supply from one part of the body to the affected area. These nodes promote the growth of new lymphatic vessels, which improves lymph drainage and reduces swelling. It is mainly used for chronic or advanced lymphedema cases where local lymphatic function is adversely affected.
• Liposuction: Liposuction is mainly used for advanced lymphedema with major fibrosis and adipose tissue accumulation. It removes excess fat and fibrotic tissue, reducing limb volume and improving mobility. Unlike other surgical lymphedema surgery, liposuction also helps restore lymphatic function, in addition to providing symptomatic relief. After the procedure, the patients are advised to wear compression garments to prevent fluid reaccumulation.
• Lymphatic Vessel Grafting: Lymphatic vessel grafting involves reconstructing damaged lymphatic vessels using autologous grafts, which are taken from the patient’s own body. The graft restores continuity in the lymphatic system - which facilitates normal lymph flow. The procedure is often combined with VLNT or LVA for better results and is best for patients with localised lymphatic damage.
• Lymphovenous Bypass (LVB): LVB is quite similar to LVA. It involves connecting lymphatic vessels directly to the nearby veins. This bypasses the obstructed lymph nodes - which allows lymph fluid to drain into the venous system. LVB is effective for the treatment of moderate to severe lymphedema, especially when one or more lymphatic channels are blocked. 

Healthcare providers recommend undergoing debulking procedures in case of severe fibrosis and elephantiasis. The procedure involves removing the thickened, fibrotic skin and subcutaneous tissue to reduce the volume of the limb. In some cases, skin grafting may be necessary to cover the excised region. Though it can help reduce the size of the limb - it does not restore the lymphatic function. 

• It addresses the underlying cause of lymphatic obstruction - which not only manages the symptoms but also offers long-term relief.
• It reduces swelling, pain, and discomfort - which improves mobility and body functionality.
• It lowers the risk of infection, such as - cellulitis - which is commonly associated with chronic lymphedema.
• It promotes the growth of new lymphatic channels - which prevents the progression of the disease. 

It is important to prepare effectively for the treatment - this ensures better results and reduced complications. Before starting the procedure, the patient has to undergo several medical evaluations, which include - MRI, lymphoscintigraphy, etc., which assess the severity of the condition.

Also, it is advisable to adopt a balanced diet and regular exercise to improve lymphatic flow. Patients are also advised to avoid injuries, extreme temperature exposure, and infections that can worsen the condition. Also, it is important to take proper care of the skin - this prevents infections. Also, doctors help educate patients about lymphedema management techniques to help them understand what the recovery process may include. 

Lymphedema is performed using microsurgical techniques - which involve using advanced microscopes and specialised instruments to connect tiny lymphatic vessels and venules. The procedures are conducted under general anaesthesia to ensure the patient is comfortable. Depending on the complexity of the condition, the procedure can take several hours.

During the surgery, lymphatic vessels are carefully connected to nearby venules - which bypasses obstructed lymph nodes. This facilitates proper lymphatic drainage. In VLNT, healthy lymph nodes are transplanted with their blood supply intact to the affected area - which promotes the formation of new lymphatic channels.

In India, hospitals offering lymphedema treatment in Chennai use advanced technology and specialised expertise in the field. This helps improve quality of life and successful long-term relief from chronic lymphedema. 

After the procedure, the patient is monitored in the hospital for a few days to observe wound healing and check for complications such as infection or blood clots. Also, doctors administer pain management and antibiotics as required. The surgical area is wrapped in a compression bandage to minimise swelling and support lymphatic drainage.

Once discharged, patients must follow a strict aftercare regimen, which includes - wearing compression garments daily. This helps minimise limb volume and prevent fluid accumulation. Regular wound care and hygiene practices are essential to reduce the risk of infection. To enhance proper lymphatic flow and regain mobility - lymphedema physical therapy is recommended - which includes gentle exercises, manual lymphatic drainage, breathing techniques, etc. It stimulates lymphatic circulation.

Also, patients shouldn't lift heavy objects and be involved in strenuous physical activities. Moreover, routine follow-up is required to monitor the progress and address any complications immediately. Patients are advised to eat a healthy, balanced diet and stay hydrated. 

Lymphedema surgery, like any other surgery, carries some risks and complications. One of the most common complications of lymphedema is infection. It may occur at the surgical site despite using sterile techniques. After the surgery, redness, itchiness, pain, warmth, etc., are common. These are addressed using antibiotics.

Sometimes, people with weak immune systems may also experience delayed healing or scarring. Also, some may experience discomfort with swelling that may be caused by lymphatic leakage and seroma formation, where lymph fluid accumulates under the skin. Moreover, blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) are potential complications, especially in lower limb surgeries. Healthcare providers manage these issues with preventive measures like blood thinners and early mobilisation.

Another major lymphedema complication is graft failure, where the transplanted lymph node is not established properly. In rare cases, the complications may worsen and cause new areas of swelling. Hence, it is advisable to visit doctors after the surgery and monitor the damage.

Gleneagles Hospital is one of the leading hospitals for lymphedema treatment in India. We offer advanced surgical procedures and have experienced surgeons who hold years of experience in ensuring proper care and customised treatment plans. Additionally, we have a multidisciplinary team of physiotherapists for better recovery.

Book a consultation with our specialists at Gleneagles Hospital to learn more about the treatment plan!