Successful Treatment of Rheumatoid Lymphedema with Lymphatic Venous Anastomosis

Abstract

Summary:. Rheumatoid lymphedema is a rare but severely disabling condition caused by reduced lymphatic drainage. Most treatment methods are conservative and may lead to the exacerbation of lymphedema. Lymphatic venous anastomosis (LVA) is an effective treatment for lymphedema after surgery involving the lymphatic system, such as lymph node dissection for cancer treatment. LVA has not been used to treat rheumatoid lymphedema. We present a case of rheumatoid lymphedema treated with surgical procedures, including LVA. Following LVA, objective and subjective symptom relief was noted, along with decreased swelling and pain in the affected area. The postoperative course was uneventful. LVA for the treatment of rheumatoid lymphedema may provide definitive clinical improvements.