Successful Treatment with Lymphaticovenular Anastomosis for Secondary Skin Lesions of Chronic Lymphedema

Abstract

The treatment of severe lymphedema is a difficult challenge. We performed lymphaticovenular anastomosis on two patients with secondary skin lesions of chronic lymphedema; one patient exhibited acquired lymphangioma circumscriptum of the vulva and the other presented elephantiasis nostras verrucosa of the lower leg. Both patients obtained a remarkable improvement in skin lesions and also in the reduction of lymphedema of the lower extremity. During a 6-month-follow-up period, constant reduction in the circumference of the lower extremities without exacerbation of skin lesions was achieved in both patients. Lymphaticovenular anastomosis is a useful surgical treatment for secondary lymphedema in the lower extremities. In addition, this surgical treatment is effective for secondary lesions of lymphedema, including acquired lymphangioma circumscriptum and elephantiasis nostras verrucosa.

Elephantiasis nostras verrucosa: An institutional analysis of 21 cases

“…22 A lymphaticovenular anastomosis effectively reduced limb swelling and skin lesions in one patient with ENV. 24 As a last resort, amputation is sometimes required. 12,25 Conclusion…”

Non‐Infective Cutaneous Conditions of the Vulva

“…Lymphangiectases respond to treatment with the carbon dioxide laser (Landthaler et al 1990). Lymphaticovenular anastomosis has been reported as a successful treatment in one case of acquired lymphangioma circumscriptum (Montegi et al 2007).…”

Elephantiasis Nostras Verrucosa (ENV): A Complication of Congestive Heart Failure and Obesity

“…11 Initial conservative treatments include elevation of the affected limb, compression with bandages or stockings, massage, and pneumatic compression devices. [1][2][3]11,13,14 During acute lymphangitis, appropriate antibiotics should be used to treat the infection. When there is no active infection, prophylactic use of antibiotics may be considered.…”