Key Points Lymphoscintigraphy is an objective and reliable imaging modality for diagnosing lymphedema, categorizing its severity, and guiding appropriate treatment. The diagnostic utility of lymphoscintigraphy depends upon meticulous technical performance and correct image interpretation. The main drawback of lymphoscintigraphy is…
Key Points Primary extremity lymphedema is a debilitating disease with a reported incidence of 1–3 in every 10,000 births, and it may present with concomitant vascular lesions or retroperitoneal lymphangiomatosis with chylous ascites. The diagnosis of primary extremity lymphedema includes…
Introduction Lymphedema can develop as a result of developmental or genetic abnormalities intrinsic to the lymphatic system (primary lymphedema) or secondary to extrinsic factors (infections, trauma, malignancy, obesity, etc.) that impair lymphatic function. Although the common denominator in both lymphedema…
Key Points Lymphangiogenesis occurs in four distinct regular phases: lymphatic competence, lymphatic commitment, lymphatic speciation, and lymphatic maturation. Vascular endothelial growth factor C and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 signaling are essential for lymphangiogenesis. Animal models of secondary lymphedema have…
Key Points Precise knowledge about normal lymphatic anatomy in the upper and lower extremities can empower practitioners to distinguish structural changes occurring in lymphedema. Lymphatic anatomy in lymphedema changes substantially with the deterioration of superficial lymph collecting vessels. Lymphedema can…
“Declare the past, diagnose the present, foretell the future.” –Hippocrates. Overview The surgical treatment of lymphedema has evolved tremendously since the early 21st century. With the advances in microsurgical techniques, new options are available for patients suffering from the physical…
Synopsis ■ Flexor tendon injuries treated with optimal repair techniques may benefit from an early active motion regimen utilizing short arc active flexion exercises initiated within the first postoperative week. ■ The use of a relative motion extension orthosis has…
Access video content for this chapter online at Elsevier eBooks+ Introduction Hands are an essential part of human interaction, communication, and social integration, and apart from the face, they are the most consistently visible part of the body. Generally, the…
Synopsis ■ Upper extremity allografts consist of multiple tissues of variable immunogenicity such as skin, lymph nodes, bone marrow, nerves, vessels, muscles, and bone. ■ Transplantation can restore the appearance, anatomy, and function of non-salvageable upper extremity loss by replacing…
Access video lecture content for this chapter online at Elsevier eBooks+ Introduction Upper extremity amputees are different from lower extremity amputees in many aspects. The patients tend to be younger, and their amputations are primarily due to trauma and tumors…