About us
Oxford Lymphoedema Practice
The three surgeons at the Oxford Lymphoedema Practice are specialist microsurgeons. As well as their role in treating lymphoedema, they all have other reconstructive plastic surgery commitments spanning hand surgery, lower limb reconstruction and head and neck surgery. All three have trained with international specialists in the field of lymphoedema including surgical collaborations with colleagues in Japan, North America, Europe, India, and Southeast Asia.
The team at the Oxford Lymphoedema Practice were the first surgeons to bring LVA supermicrosurgery to the UK, performing this surgery here since 2012. Since that time they have performed over 200 lymphoedema operations on patients from the UK and further afield. The Oxford Lymphoedema Practice surgeons continuously record their outcomes and optimise their techniques for the benefit of their patients. They contribute to published literature in the field of lymphoedema and are regular speakers at national and international lymphoedema conferences hosted through the British Lymphology Society, the Lymphoedema Support Network and local lymphoedema centres.
Introducing OLP
Surgical treatment of lymphoedema
Lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA)
This microsurgical bypass operation connects lymphatics to small veins in the skin allowing excess fluid to drain from the affected area. Whilst it is a very technical procedure it can restore the function of the lymphatic system and remove excess fluid from the limb. We have pioneered this operation under local anasthetic as a day case. It is suitable for patients with early disease.
Liposuction for lymphoedema (SAPL)
This surgery can produce a massive and permanent volume reduction in an arm or leg affected by lymphoedema. It is particulary successful in advanced longstanding disease where most of the swelling has turned to fat and protein. It is carried out with specialist training for assessment, surgical techniques and rehabilitation following surgery. It must be emphasised that this is very different from standard cosmetic liposuction. It can produce a long term and predictable volume reduction that is maintained by a special compression garment use.
Vascularized lymphnode transfer (VLNT)
We can transfer spare lymphatics from a healthy area of your body to the arm or leg with lymphoedema. We also join the healthy lymphatics to nearby blood vessels so the tissue remains healthy and can begin to regenerate lymphatics. The transferred lymphatic tissue can then restore the conduit and filter for lymph fluid. This operation may take some time to become fully effective as the new lymphatic system grows but is suitable for a range of stages of the disease.
Testimonials
Meet the Surgeons
We are experts in the field of lymphoedema, and have trained extensively around the World. We are all united in the common goal of offering real solutions to people suffering from lymphoedema.
Explore
Understanding Lymphoedema
Lymphoedema is a disorder of the lymphatic system. This system is a natural circulation system in the body that helps to remove waste and cleanse the body. Often people only...
Case studies
Show how lymphoedema surgery at Oxford Lymphedema Practice can be life-changing. Please note that the names of our patients have been changed to protect their confidentiality.
Our Surgeons
Our surgeons have pioneered LVA, VLNT, SAPL & SAPL supermicrosurgery for lymphoedema in the UK, performing these operations since 2012.
Surgery address:
Nuffield Health, The Manor Hospital, Beech Road, Oxford, OX3 7RP
Oxford Lymphoedema Practice, PO Box 1138, Oxford, OX1 9UN
© Oxford Lymphoedema Practice Ltd 2018