Clinical application of magnetic resonance lymphangiography in the vascularized omental lymph nodes transfer with or without lymphaticovenous anastomosis for cancer-related lower extremity lymphedema

Abstract

Background The recent increase in the number of patients with lower extremities lymphedema and the development of microsurgery techniques have led to a rise in lymphedema treatment. Vascularized omental lymph node transfer (VOLT), an emerging treatment modality for extremity lymphedema, has shown its unique advantages in reconstructing lymphatic circulation and absorbing exudated lymphatic fluid. Patients who underwent radical tumor resection with/without radiation therapy treatment often present with impairment or degeneration of the inguinal lymph nodes. For such cases, VOLT could provide adequate lymph nodes and tissue to absorb edema fluid in these areas. Therefore, we analyzed the operative outcomes of VOLT under the guidance of magnetic resonance lymphangiography (MRL) in this study, as this individualized and precise surgical procedure could benefit patients and improve their quality of life. Methods From November 2021 to September 2022, a total of 14 patients’ 19 legs with extremity lymphedema underwent a VOLT with or without lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA). Outcomes, including circumference reduction rates, preoperative and postoperative MRL results, and other complications, were analyzed. Results The mean follow-up period was 8.86±1.41 months (range, 7–11 months). The mean circumference reduction rates {circumference reduction rate (%) = [1 − (postoperative affected limb − healthy limb)/(preoperative affected limb − healthy limb)] × 100%} of different planes (i.e., ankle, 10 cm above the knee, 10 cm below the knee, 10 cm above the ankle, and 20 cm above the knee) were 15.64%±40.08%, 11.79%±30.69%, 20.25%±24.94%, 7.73%±30.05%, −1.517%±16.75%. Notably, one patient had multi-drug–resistant gram-negative infections, which resulted in the loss of three flaps. The postoperative MRL showed improved lymphatic drainage and lower extremity volume in the remaining 13 cases. Conclusions The precision evaluation of inguinal lymph nodes and lower extremities lymphatic system through MRL using VOLT can provide surgeons with a comprehensive understanding and reliable evidence for the treatment of cancer-related lower extremity lymphedema.