A Farewell to Big Arms: Curing Lymphedema | Global Partners Webinar Series-A Farewell to Big Arms: Curing Lymphedema

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Video Summary

In this ASPS Global Partners webinar, specialists discussed advancements in the treatment of lymphedema, a condition characterized by the swelling of body parts due to lymphatic system disruption. Dr. Dhruv Singhal from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center emphasized the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing lymphedema through surgical options like debulking procedures, lymph node transplants, and lymphovenous bypass. He highlighted the Boston Lymphatic Center's success in reducing patients' compression needs and improving their quality of life. Dr. Mark Chavarin from MD Anderson Cancer Center shared their algorithmic approach, emphasizing the role of imaging and patient-specific treatment plans for surgeries like lymphovenous bypass and vascularized lymph node transfers. He underscored the importance of considering patient comorbidities and using a team approach for effective outcomes. Dr. Deng Nguyen from Stanford presented an innovative approach using BiBridge, a nanofibrillar collagen scaffold, as an adjunct to surgical treatments. His research demonstrated its potential in promoting lymphatic regeneration and improving surgical outcomes. All panelists agreed on the necessity of personalized treatment plans, often combining different surgical techniques to address both the fluid and tissue components of lymphedema. They emphasized the importance of critical self-analysis and adaptation of techniques to improve patient outcomes. Overall, the discussion reflected a comprehensive and evolving understanding of surgical interventions in treating both primary and secondary lymphedema, focusing on quality of life improvements and long-term management.

Keywords

lymphedema

multidisciplinary approach

surgical options

lymphovenous bypass

lymph node transplants

patient-specific treatment

Boston Lymphatic Center

nanofibrillar collagen scaffold

personalized treatment plans

quality of life improvements