LYMPHEDEMA: RESULTS OF SURGICAL TREATMENT IN 64 PATIENTS (1936-1964)

Abstract

Patients with peripheral lymphedema are usually
treated without operation. In some, however,
operations are required in order to reduce swelling,
ensure comfort, and improve function and
appearance. Because new surgical approaches are
available for the treatment of peripheral lymphedema,
we reviewed our previous operative
experiences for these conditions at the Mayo Clinic
to provide a reference to which the newer
procedures may be compared.
Sixty-four patients underwent operation for
peripheral lymphedema between 1936 and 1964.
Follow-up information was obtained on 56 patients.
Seventeen patients required three procedures to
alleviate the swelling in an extremity. Morphologic
aspects of the excised tissue were also evaluated in
these cases. Results were considered excellent in 13,
good in 22, fair in 8, and poor in 13. Complications
of operation consisted primarily of wound infections,
hematomas, and necrosis of skin flaps.