01869 351300 [email protected]

Surgery for lymphoedema

Developments in plastic and reconstructive surgery have led to 3 different surgical techniques that all have an important role in lymphoedema. These are lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA), vascularized lymphnode transfer (VLNT) and liposuction for lymphoedema (SAPL). Each operation has a role in the different stages of lymphoedema.

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.

Read more about LVA

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.

Read more about SAPL

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.

Read more about VLNT

Testimonials

PATIENT LF

It would be impossible for me to fully explain the difference that the improvement in my Lymphoedema has made to my quality of life so far - Thank you!

PATIENT LF

PATIENT KW

 To go from despair at an an ever-growing leg to delight at a manageable condition has been a journey, but one with a happy ending. OLP has made this happen and I don't miss an opportunity to sing your praises to others unfortunate enough to have lymphoedema.

PATIENT KW

PATIENT GM

Without your surgery on my arm I don’t think I could of done this , I climbed Kilimanjaro on New Year’s Day

PATIENT GM

PATIENT DP

I think the service you have given me has been the best medical experience I have ever had, the team is very professional but with a really great empathy for the patient which makes one feel very comfortable and cared for.

PATIENT DP

PATIENT PH

My left leg is still staying soft and maintaining a good shape. I have noticed a reduction in my thigh area recently just by looking!

PATIENT PH

PATIENT VS

The surgery has made a big difference to my mobility, which has enabled me to do things that I want to do. The pain has lessened, which has improved my quality of life. Everyone in the practice I've had contact with has been kind and understanding. They've worked hard to make things better for me.

PATIENT VS

PATIENT FH

From the initial zoom consultation, through to the ICG scan appointment and the surgery itself, I felt complete trust in your care. I also really appreciated your expert and balanced evalutation of the likely outcomes in my particular case. The surgery itself was inspiring and I feel incredibly lucky to have had the opportunity to have experienced this surgical procedure.

PATIENT FH

Oxford Lymphoedema Practice Ltd

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T +44(0)1869 351300

Surgery address:

Nuffield Health, The Manor Hospital, Beech Road, Oxford, OX3 7RP

Office address:

Oxford Lymphoedema Practice, PO Box 1138, Oxford, OX1 9UN

© Oxford Lymphoedema Practice Ltd 2018