Lymphovenous anastomosis is a microsurgical procedure used to treat lymphedema and chylothoraces.
Lymphovenous anastomosis is a microsurgical procedure used to treat lymphedema and chylothoraces.
Lymphedema is a chronic condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of lymph fluid in the interstitial tissues, typically occurring in the limbs. It often results from congenital abnormalities, surgical procedures (especially those involving lymph node dissection), infections, or radiation therapy. LVA aims to restore or improve lymphatic drainage by anastomosing (connecting) functioning lymphatic channels with adjacent small veins (venules). Advances in supermicrosurgical techniques—using high-powered microscopes and extremely fine sutures—have significantly enhanced the feasibility and outcomes of LVA.
LVA is primarily employed in the management of:
The procedure is most effective in patients with early-stage lymphedema or when there is still a measurable amount of functional lymphatic flow. It is frequently used in combination with conservative treatments such as compression therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, and exercise regimes as part of comprehensive lymphedema management.
Patients considered for LVA typically undergo detailed imaging studies. Techniques such as near-infrared fluorescence lymphography or indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography [1] help in mapping functional lymphatic vessels and identifying suitable sites for anastomosis.
During the procedure, performed under general or local anesthesia, the surgeon makes small incisions in the affected area. Under high magnification, functional lymphatic vessels (often less than 0.8 mm in diameter) and nearby venules are identified. Using supermicrosurgical instruments and sutures as fine as 11-0 or 12-0 nylon, the surgeon meticulously creates one or multiple anastomoses between the lymphatic vessels and the venous channels.
After the surgery, patients are usually advised to continue conservative therapies such as compression garments and physiotherapy to maximize the benefits of the procedure. Regular follow-up appointments are critical to monitor limb volume reduction, assess lymphatic function, and detect any complications early.
Multiple studies have demonstrated that LVA can lead to:
The success of the procedure depends on several factors including the stage of lymphedema, the quality of the lymphatic vessels, and the surgeon's expertise. While many patients experience significant symptomatic relief and improved quality of life, outcomes may vary, and some individuals might require additional procedures or complementary treatments.
The concept of surgically connecting lymphatic channels to the venous system dates back to 1970's. LVA has been first described by Gilbert (France) in 1976 [2] and O'Brien (Australia) in 1977. [3] It came into adoption in the 80's, when a handful of microsurgeons started applying this technique in their clinical practice. Most notably, Gong-Kang H (1981) [4] , Ho L.C.Y (Australia, 1983), [5] Yamamoto Y(Japan, 1998), [6] and Koshima I (Japan, 2000). [7]
Early attempts were hampered by technical limitations. The advent of supermicrosurgery in the 1990s and 2000s—with improvements in optical magnification, instrument design, and suture materials—marked a turning point for LVA. Today, it is an established component of the surgical armamentarium for lymphedema management in many specialized centers worldwide.