This is what bothers every patient. What are the results and can the swelling reoccur?
Let’s work it out.
To begin with, I believe that only surgical treatment can be called a treatment itself because there is a new lymphatic system being created.
All conservative methods and medication only aim to preserve the swelling stable to allow patients to function and not to change the size of the garment too often.
The duration of lymphedema plays a great role. If the swelling was progressing for a long time, there is a little chance it would be removed by just one procedure.
So what are the cases when lymphedema can be cured?
Early stages of the disease, when there are many lymph drainage pathways left intact. Lymphovenous anastomosis can form a new pathway via lymph vessels and veins and patients may not wear any garment post-op at all.
It is only erysipelas that can rebound a swelling.
If it is a further stage, several surgical methods are applicable.
- Lymphovenous anastomosis (if it is possible) to get rid of liquid excess
- Lymph node transplantation will stimulate the growth of new vessels where they were damaged.
- Liposuction, reducing the subcutaneous fat tissue will lead to new lymph vessel growth in that area to establish new pathways between superficial and profound lymphatic systems.
Using this complex surgical approach significantly regresses lymphedema and keeps it stable.
Can it reoccur in some time? With the same chances as the tumor can.
More methods applied, earlier stage – minimum risks.
Insufficient treatment, later stage – more risks.
There is a 3rd stage of lymphedema.
It’s where metabolism control and abacterial and oncological awareness should be concerned to estimate the risks of surgery.
But, in my own experience, I had many patients with this staging of lymphedema with marvelous results of surgery.
And of course, conservative treatment is added if needed.
The patient is also an actor in this treatment having control of one’s exercises, body weight, diet, and happiness.