Terapia descongestiva como complemento a la cirugía de anastomosis linfáticovenosas y transferencia de linfonodos vascularizados: Una revisión de la literatura / Decongestive therapy as an adjunct to lymphatic-venous anastomosis surgery and vascularized lymph node transfer: A review of the literature

Resumen Introducción: El linfedema es una enfermedad inflamatoria crónica que afecta cerca de 250 millones de personas en el mundo. El tratamiento tradicional es la terapia descongestiva. Últimamente, existe la opción de complementar el tratamiento tradicional con procedimientos quirúrgicos fisiológicos como anastomosis linfáticovenosas y transferencia de linfonodos vascularizados. Sin embargo, la evidencia del uso de la terapia descongestiva en los cuidados pre y posoperatorios en estas cirugías es limitada. Objetivo: Evaluar el uso de terapia descongestiva como complemento a la cirugía de linfedema mediante anastomosis linfáticovenosas y transferencia de linfonodos vascularizados. Materiales y Método: Se realizó una revisión de la literatura en las siguientes bases de datos: Cochrane, Pubmed y Google académico, utilizando los siguientes términos mesh: "anastomosis, surgical", "lymphedema", "perioperative care", "microsurgery", "rehabilitation", "therapy", "lymph nodes", "bypass", "lymphedema and microsurgery". Se incluyó aquellos artículos que describían el uso de la terapia descongestiva en los cuidados pre- y posoperatorios. Resultados: Se identificó un total de 201 artículos y 12 fueron incluidos en el análisis. La evidencia reporta que las terapias más usadas en el cuidado pre- y posoperatorio son compresión, drenaje linfático manual y tratamientos personalizados. Sin embargo, la mayoría de los autores hace una descripción vaga de las terapias mencionadas. Discusión y Conclusión: La evidencia respecto al uso de terapia descongestiva como tratamiento complementario es débil. Los expertos recomiendan su uso, sin embargo, se necesitan futuras investigaciones que describan el uso de cada uno de sus componentes como complemento de procedimientos quirúrgicos fisiológicos para el manejo del linfedema.

Background: Lymphedema is a disease that affects about 250 million people around the world. The traditional treatment is decongestive therapy. In the past years, there is the option to complementing the traditional treatment with physiological surgical procedures such as lymphatic-venous anastomosis (LVA) and vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT). However, the evidence for the use of decongestive therapy in pre- and post-operative care in these surgeries is limited. Aim: To evaluate the use of decongestive therapy as a complement to lymphedema surgery such a lymphatic-venous anastomosis and transfer of vascularized lymph nodes. Materials and Method: A literature review was carried out in the following databases: Cochrane, Pubmed and Academic Google, using the following mesh terms: "anastomosis, surgical", "lymphedema", "perioperative care", "microsurgery", "rehabilitation", "therapy", "lymph nodes","bypass", "lymphedema and microsurgery". "Those articles that described the use of decongestive therapy in pre- and post-operative care were included. Results: 201 articles were identified and 12 were included in the analysis. The evidence reports that the most used therapies in pre- and post-operative care are compression, manual lymphatic drainage and personalized treatments. However, most of the authors give a vague description of the mentioned therapies. Discussion and Conclusion: The evidence regarding the use of decongestive therapy as a complementary treatment is weak. Experts recommend its use; however, future research is needed to describe the use of each of its components as a complement to physiological surgical procedures for the management of lymphedema.

Características de algunos parámetros de la inmunidad humoral y celular en pacientes con linfedema / Characteristics of some humoral and cellular immunity´s parameters in patients with lymphedema

Introducción: El linfedema es una enfermedad crónica con un impacto negativo sobre la salud de las personas que lo padecen. Este se considera un problema de salud subestimado y subregistrado, por lo que requiere de mayores esfuerzos investigativos y sanitarios. Objetivo: Identificar las características de algunos parámetros de la inmunidad humoral y celular en pacientes con linfedema del municipio El Cerro. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo en 48 pacientes residentes en el municipio Cerro, atendidos en consulta externa del Instituto Nacional de Angiología y Cirugía Vascular en el período 2011-2015. El grupo se dividió en 24 pacientes con linfedema y 24 sin la enfermedad. A todos se les cuantificaron las concentraciones de las inmunoglobulinas (A, G y M) y de la proteína C reactiva. También se les hizo la prueba de hipersensibilidad retardada. Se utilizó chi cuadrado no paramétrico para asociar el estado inmunológico con la presencia de linfedema, la etiología y los estadios de este. Se trabajó con una confiabilidad del 95 por ciento (p < 0,05). Resultados: Predominaron los pacientes del sexo femenino (58,3 por ciento) y los de 60 años y más (29,2 por ciento). Hubo mayor frecuencia de linfangitis recurrentes (70,8 por ciento), con predominio del linfedema secundario en estadio IIb (45,8 por ciento); de afectación del miembro inferior derecho (45,8 por ciento), con una diferencia significativa de las inmunoglobulinas (IgA e IgG); y de frecuencia de pacientes anérgicos (91,7 por ciento), con proteína C reactiva positiva (45,8 por ciento). Conclusiones: Los pacientes con linfedema tienen afectados su sistema inmune, con mayor frecuencia de anérgicos, diminución de las inmunoglobulinas IgA e IgG, y positividad de proteína C reactiva(AU)

Introduction: Lymphedema is a chronic disease with a negative impact on the health of patients with lymphedema. It is considered an underestimated and sub-recorded health problem, which requires greater research and health efforts. Objective: Identify the characteristics of some parameters of humoral and cellular immunity in patients with lymphedema from Cerro municipality. Methods: A descriptive study was carried out in 48 patients living in Cerro municipality, who were attended in the external consultation of the National Institute of Angiology and Vascular Surgery in the period 2011-2015. The group was divided into 24 patients with lymphedema and 24 patients without the disease. The concentrations of immunoglobulins (A, G and M) and C-reactive protein were quantified in all of them. The test of delayed hypersensitivity was also perfomed. Non-parametric chi-square was used to associate immune state with the presence of lymphedema, etiology and lymphedema stages. Reliability was of 95 percent (p<0.05). Results: Female patients predominated (58.3 percent) and those of 60 years and older (29.2 percent). There was a higher frequency of recurrent lymphangitis (70.8 percent), predominantly stage II b secondary lymphedema (45.8 percent); lower right limb involvement (45.8 percent), with a significant difference of immunoglobulins (IgA and IgG); and frequency of anergic patients (91.7 percent), with positive C-reactive protein (45.8 percent). Conclusions: Patients with lymphedema have their immune system affected, more frequently the anergic ones, a decrease of IgA and IgG immunoglobulins, and positivity of C-reactive protein(AU)

Translation and adaptation of the Radiotherapy Edema Rating Scale to Brazilian Portuguese / Tradução e adaptação para o português brasileiro da Escala de Classificação do Edema da Radioterapia

Abstract Introduction: Internal lymphedema is one of the sequelae of head and neck cancer treatment that can lead to varying degrees of swallowing, speech, and respiration alterations. The Radiotherapy Edema Rating Scale, developed by Patterson et al., is a tool used to evaluate pharyngeal and laryngeal edema. Objective: To translate into Brazilian Portuguese, to culturally adapt and test this scale in patients undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer. Methods: The process followed the international guidelines and translation steps by two head and neck surgeons and back-translation performed independently by two North-American natives. The final version of the test was evaluated based on the assessment of 18 patients by two head and neck surgeons and two speech therapists using the scales in Brazilian Portuguese. Results: The translation and cultural adaptation were satisfactorily performed by the members of the committee in charge. Conclusion: The translation and adaptation into Brazilian Portuguese of the Radiotherapy Edema Rating Scale was successfully performed and showed to be easy to apply.

Resumo Introdução: O linfedema interno é uma das sequelas do tratamento para o câncer de cabeça e pescoço, pode levar a alterações de grau variado na deglutição, voz e respiração. A Escala do Edema da Radioterapia (Radiotherapy Edema Rating Scale), elaborada por Patterson et al., é uma ferramenta de avaliação do edema de faringe e laringe. Objetivo: Traduzir, para o português brasileiro, adaptar culturalmente e testar essa escala em pacientes submetidos ao tratamento para o câncer de cabeça e pescoço. Método: O processo seguiu as diretrizes internacionais e as etapas de tradução por dois cirurgiões de cabeça e pescoço e a retrotradução de forma independente por dois nativos norte-americanos. O teste da versão final para avaliação foi realizado a partir da avaliação de 18 pacientes por dois médicos cirurgiões de cabeça e pescoço e duas fonoaudiólogas por meio da aplicação das escalas em português. Resultados: A tradução e a adaptação cultural foram executadas satisfatoriamente pelos membros do comitê responsável. Conclusão: A tradução e adaptação da Escala do Edema da Radioterapia para o português foi bem-sucedida e de fácil aplicação.

Translation and adaptation to Brazilian Portuguese of the Lymphedema Rating Scale in Head and Neck Cancer / Tradução e adaptação para o português brasileiro da Lymphedema Rating Scale in Head and Neck Cancer

ABSTRACT Objective: Translate to brazilian portuguese, culturally adapt and test the rating and classification scales of cervicofacial lymphedema of the MD Anderson Cancer Center Head and Neck Lymphedema Protocol (MDACC HNL) in patients undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer. Methods: The process followed international guidelines and translation stages by two head and neck surgeons, and back translation independently by two native Americans. The test of final version was based on the evaluation of 18 patients by one speech pathologist and one physical therapist who applied the scales in Portuguese. Results: The translation of the three scales was carried out independently and the translators reached a consensus for the final version. Minor modifications were made by translating two terms into the Assessment of the Face. Versions of back-translation were similar to each other. The instrument was successfully applied to patients independently. Conclusion: The translation and cultural adaptation of the assessment and rating scale of the cervicofacial lymphedema of the MD Anderson Cancer Center Head and Neck Lymphedema Protocol to the Brazilian Portuguese were successful.

RESUMO Objetivo: Traduzir, para o português brasileiro, adaptar culturalmente e testar as escalas de avaliação e classificação do linfedema cérvico-facial do MD Anderson Cancer Center Head and Neck Lymphedema Protocol (MDACC HNL) em pacientes submetidos ao tratamento para o câncer de cabeça e pescoço. Métodos: O processo seguiu as diretrizes internacionais e as etapas de tradução por dois cirurgiões de cabeça e pescoço, além de retrotradução de forma independente por dois nativos norte-americanos. O teste da versão final foi realizado a partir da avaliação de 18 pacientes por um fonoaudiólogo e um fisioterapeuta, por meio da aplicação das escalas em português. Resultados: A tradução das três escalas foi realizada de forma independente, e os tradutores chegaram a um consenso para a versão final. Foram feitas pequenas modificações, ao serem traduzidos dois termos em Assessment of the Face . As versões da retrotradução foram semelhantes entre si. O instrumento foi aplicado com sucesso nos pacientes de forma independente. Conclusão: A tradução e a adaptação das escalas de avaliação e classificação do linfedema cérvico-facial do MD Anderson Cancer Center Head and Neck Lymphedema protocol para o português foram bem sucedidas.

Liquid silicone used for esthetic purposes as a potentiator for occurrence of post-radiotherapy genital lymphedema: case report / Silicone líquido utilizado com finalidade estética como potencializador da ocorrência de linfedema genital pós-radioterapia: relato de caso

ABSTRACT CONTEXT: Lymphedema consists of extracellular fluid retention caused by lymphatic obstruction. In chronic forms, fat and fibrous tissue accumulation is observed. Genital lymphedema is a rare condition in developed countries and may have primary or acquired etiology. It generally leads to urinary, sexual and social impairment. Clinical treatment usually has low effectiveness, and surgical resection is frequently indicated. CASE REPORT: We report a case of a male-to-female transgender patient who was referred for treatment of chronic genital lymphedema. She had a history of pelvic radiotherapy to treat anal cancer and of liquid silicone injections to the buttock and thigh regions for esthetic purposes. Radiological examinations showed signs both of tissue infiltration by liquid silicone and of granulomas, lymphadenopathy and lymphedema. Surgical treatment was performed on the area affected, in which lymphedematous tissue was excised from the scrotum while preserving the penis and testicles, with satisfactory results. Histopathological examination showed alterations compatible with tissue infiltration by exogenous material, along with chronic lymphedema. CONCLUSION: Genital lymphedema may be caused by an association of lesions due to liquid silicone injections and radiotherapy in the pelvic region. Cancer treatment decisions for patients who previously underwent liquid silicone injection should take this information into account, since it may represent a risk factor for radiotherapy complications.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: O linfedema consiste de retenção de fluido extracelular causada por obstrução linfática. Nas formas crônicas, observa-se acúmulo de tecido adiposo e fibrose. O linfedema genital é uma doença rara em países desenvolvidos e pode ter etiologia primária ou adquirida, em geral cursando com disfunções urinária e sexual, bem como com prejuízo do convívio social. O tratamento clínico é, em geral, pouco efetivo, indicando-se com frequência a abordagem cirúrgica, com excisão da área afetada. RELATO DE CASO: Relata-se o caso de paciente feminina transgênero, encaminhada para tratamento de linfedema genital crônico. Havia antecedente pessoal de tratamento de câncer de canal anal com radioterapia pélvica e de injeções de silicone líquido em glúteos e coxas com finalidade estética. Exames radiológicos mostraram tanto sinais de infiltração tecidual por silicone líquido como granulomas e linfadenopatia como de linfedema. Foi realizado o tratamento cirúrgico da área afetada, com excisão do tecido linfadenomatoso do escroto, preservando o pênis e testículos, com resultado satisfatório. A análise histopatológica mostrou achados compatíveis com infiltração tecidual por material exógeno, bem como com linfedema crônico. CONCLUSÃO: O linfedema genital pode ser causado pela associação de lesão por injeção de silicone líquido e radioterapia na região pélvica. As decisões no tratamento de neoplasias em pacientes previamente submetidos a injeção de silicone líquido devem levar em conta esse fato, já que pode representar fator de risco para complicações de tratamento radioterápico.

Anatomy of the lymphatic drainage of the upper limb and breast and its role in lymphedema prevention after breast cancer treatment / Anatomía del drenaje linfático del miembro superior y de la mama y su papel en la prevención del linfedema después del tratamiento del cáncer de mama

The surgical treatment of breast cancer has been enhanced throughout the years in order to offer oncologically safer and more effective results with lower esthetic impact and fewer sequelae. The lymphedema of the upper limb is still an iatrogenic result of great incidence and morbidity after this treatment. A possible existence of independent breast and upper limb lymphatic pathways has become the issue of many researchers willing to minimize its occurrence. This review aims to compare the lymphatic pathways in the axilla described by traditional anatomy books and recently published articles about Axillary Reverse Mapping (ARM). With this purpose, a comparative table was made with the descriptions found in books and articles, a statistic table of the data collected, a flowchart of anastomoses among nodes and an analytical drawing of the most statistically mentioned drained areas. It was observed that there is great variability in the descriptions of drainage and anastomoses among the lymph nodes in the references used, so there should be a consensus of a universal description which also assembles possible anatomical variations. Furthermore, the findings brought about by recent studies show possible anastomoses among pathways and lymph nodes, however they have not been taken into consideration when ARM was initially proposed. Therefore, the axillary resection with the preservation of the posterior and lateral axillary lymph nodes is theoretically possible to avoid lymphedema of the upper limb, but the development of an updated universal description that involves all possible anatomical variations will provide a safer and more effective treatment.

El tratamiento quirúrgico del cáncer de mama ha mejorado a lo largo de los años con el fin de ofrecer resultados oncológicamente más seguros y eficaces con menor impacto estético y menos secuelas. El linfedema del miembro superior es todavía un resultado iatrogénico de gran incidencia y morbilidad después de este tratamiento. La posible existencia de vías linfáticas de mama y de los miembros superiores independientes se ha convertido en un tema central de muchas investigaciones para lograr minimizar su ocurrencia. Esta revisión tiene como objetivo comparar las vías linfáticas en la axila descritas en los libros de anatomía tradicionales con artículos recientemente publicados sobre Mapeo Reverso Axilar (MRA). Con este fin, se realizó un cuadro comparativo con las descripciones y un diagrama de flujo de las anastomosis entre los nodos, además de un dibujo analítico de las áreas drenadas estadísticamente más mencionadas. Se observó que existe una gran variabilidad en las descripciones sobre el drenaje y las anastomosis entre los nodos linfáticos, por lo que la descripción universal no debería ser considerada un consenso debido a que también presenta posibles variaciones anatómicas. Por otra parte, los resultados producidos por los estudios recientes muestran posibles anastomosis entre las vías y los nodos linfáticos, sin embargo, no se han tomado en consideración cuando se propuso inicialmente el MRA. Por lo tanto, la resección axilar con la preservación de la parte posterior y los nodos linfáticos axilares laterales es teóricamente posible para evitar el linfedema del miembro superior, pero el desarrollo de una descripción universal actualizada, que incluya todas las posibles variaciones anatómicas, proporcionará un tratamiento más seguro y eficaz.

The risk of lymphedema after postoperative radiation therapy in endometrial cancer / 부인종양

OBJECTIVE: Lower extremity lymphedema adversely affects quality of life by causing discomfort, impaired mobility and increased risk of infection. The goal of this study is to investigate factors that influence the likelihood of lymphedema in patients with endometrial cancer who undergo adjuvant radiation with or without chemotherapy. METHODS: A retrospective chart review identified all stage I-III endometrial cancer patients who had a hysterectomy with or without complete staging lymphadenectomy and adjuvant radiation therapy between January 2006 and February 2013. Patients with new-onset lymphedema after treatment were identified. Logistic regression was used to find factors that influenced lymphedema risk. RESULTS: Of 212 patients who met inclusion criteria, 15 patients (7.1%) developed new-onset lymphedema. Lymphedema was associated with lymph-node dissection (odds ratio [OR], 5.6; 95% CI, 1.01 to 105.5; p=0.048) and with the presence of pathologically positive lymph nodes (OR, 4.1; 95% CI, 1.4 to 12.3; p=0.01). Multivariate logistic regression confirmed the association with lymph-node positivity (OR, 3.2; 95% CI, 1.0007 to 10.7; p=0.0499) when controlled for lymph-node dissection. Median time to lymphedema onset was 8 months (range, 1 to 58 months) with resolution or improvement in eight patients (53.3%) after a median of 10 months. CONCLUSION: Lymph-node positivity was associated with an increased risk of lymphedema in endometrial cancer patients who received adjuvant radiation. Future studies are needed to explore whether node-positive patients may benefit from early lymphedema-controlling interventions.

Lymphatic compensation during the postoperative period after breast cancer treatment with axillary dissection / Compensações linfáticas no pós-operatório de câncer de mama com dissecção axilar

Lymphedema secondary to breast cancer causes physical and psychological morbidity and compromises quality of life. The objective of this literature review was to study lymphatic compensation after surgery for breast cancer and the factors that influence this process, with a view to understanding the etiopathogenesis of lymphedema. Articles indexed on Pubmed published from 1985 to 2012 were reviewed. According to the literature, lymphangiogenesis reduces damage to lymph vessels; there is little evidence that Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor is elevated in women with lymphedema; lymphovenous communications can be observed 60 days after surgery; women without lymphedema have acquired alternative mechanisms for removal of proteins from the interstitial space; and active exercise stimulates lymphatic and venous pumping. Health professionals should teach these patients about the risk factors for lymphedema. The effects of lymphangiogenesis, proteolysis and lymphovenous communications on development of lymphedema should be studied, since these events are intimately related.

Linfedema secundário ao câncer de mama resulta em morbidade física e psicológica, e compromete a qualidade de vida. O objetivo desta revisão da literatura foi estudar as compensações linfáticas após cirurgia para câncer de mama e os fatores que interferem neste processo, visando a compreender a etiopatogenia do linfedema. Foram incluídos artigos publicados de 1985 a 2012, da base de dados Pubmed. Segundo a literatura, a linfangiogênese reduz danos nos vasos linfáticos; há pouca evidência de que o fator de crescimento vascular endotelial linfático é aumentado nas mulheres com linfedema; anastomoses linfovenosas são observadas 60 dias após a cirurgia; mulheres sem linfedema adquiriram mecanismos alternativos para remoção das proteínas do interstício, e exercício ativo estimula bombeamento linfático e venoso. Orientações dos fatores de risco para linfedema devem ser empregadas por profissionais da saúde. O efeito de linfangiogênese, proteólise e anastomoses linfovenosas sobre o desenvolvimento do linfedema deve ser estudado, pois são eventos intimamente relacionados.

Stewart Treves Syndrome

Stewart-Treves Syndrome is characterized by the presence of lymphangiosarcoma on limb extremities. Rare, it occurs in 0.5% of patients who have undergone radical mastectomy with axillary node dissection. The main cause is chronic lymphedema with endothelial and lymphatic differentiation, with no direct relationship to breast cancer. Seven years after a radical right-side mastectomy with lymph node dissection and adjuvant therapy, the patient developed a lesion on her right arm. The dermatological examination revealed an erythematous nodule with bleeding surface on chronic right forearm lymphedema. After the biopsy, a lymphangiosarcoma on chronic lymphedema was diagnosed. Infrequent, this syndrome is relevant because of its associated mortality. Early diagnosis is important to improve survival and reduce complications.

Short-term changes in handgrip strength, body composition, and lymphedema induced by breast cancer surgery / Alterações a curto prazo na força de preensão palmar, composição corporal e linfedema induzido pela cirurgia do câncer de mama

PURPOSE: This study investigated short-term changes in body composition, handgrip strength, and presence of lymphedema in women who underwent breast cancer surgery. METHODS: Ninety-five women participated in a cross-sectional study, divided into two groups: Control (n=46), with healthy women, and Experimental (n=49), with women six months after breast cancer surgery . The Experimental Group was subdivided into right total mastectomy (RTM, n=15), left total mastectomy (LTM, n=11), right quadrant (RQ, n=13), and left quadrant (LQ, n=10). It was also redistributed among women with presence (n=10) or absence (n=39) of lymphedema. Presence of lymphedema, handgrip strength, and body composition were assessed. RESULTS: Trunk lean mass and handgrip strength were decreased in the Experimental Group. Total lean mass was increased in the LTM compared to RTM or LQ. Left handgrip strength in LTM was decreased compared to RTM and RQ and in LQ compared to RTM and RQ. Finally, total lean mass, trunk fat mass, trunk lean mass, right and left arm lean mass were increased in women with lymphedema. CONCLUSIONS: Breast cancer survivors have changes in their body composition and in handgrip strength six months after surgery; however, the interaction between the type of surgery and its impact is unclear. Furthermore, women who developed lymphedema in this period showed more significant changes in the body composition, but they were not enough to cause impairment in handgrip strength. .

OBJETIVO: Este estudo investigou alterações de curto prazo na composição corporal, na força de preensão palmar e na presença de linfedema em mulheres submetidas à cirurgia do câncer de mama. MÉTODOS: Noventa e cinco mulheres participaram de um estudo transversal, sendo divididas em dois grupos: Controle (n=46), mulheres saudáveis, e Experimental (n=49), mulheres seis meses após cirurgia do câncer de mama. O Grupo Experimental foi subdividido em mastectomia total direita (RTM, n=15), mastectomia total esquerda (LTM, n=11), quadrantectomia direita (RQ, n=13) e quadrantectomia esquerda (LQ, n=10). Também foi redistribuído entre mulheres com presença (n=10) ou ausência (n=39) de linfedema. Foram avaliadas a presença de linfedema, a força de preensão palmar e a composição corporal. RESULTADOS: A massa magra de tronco e a força de preensão palmar estavam diminuídas no Grupo Experimental. Massa magra total estava aumentada na LTM comparada à RTM ou LQ. Força de preensão palmar esquerda na LTM estava diminuída comparada à RTM e RQ e em LQ comparada à RTM e RQ. Finalmente, massa magra total, magra e gorda de tronco e massa magra de braço esquerdo e direito estavam aumentadas em mulheres com linfedema. CONCLUSÕES: Sobreviventes do câncer de mama possuem alterações na composição corporal e na força de preensão palmar seis meses após a cirurgia, porém a interação entre o tipo de cirurgia e seu impacto não está clara. Além disso, mulheres que desenvolveram linfedema neste período mostraram alterações mais significantes na composição corporal, mas que não foram suficientes para causar prejuízo na força de preensão palmar. .

Results of surgical treatment of massive localized lymphedema in severely obese patients / Resultado do tratamento cirúrgico do linfedema maciço localizado em pacientes obesos graves

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the importance of treatment of deformities caused by massive localized lymphedema (MLL) in the severely obese. METHODS: in a period of seven years, nine patients with morbid obesity and a mean age of 33 years underwent surgical resection of massive localized lymphedema with primary synthesis. This is a retrospective study on the surgical technique, complication rates and improved quality of life. RESULTS: all patients reported significant improvement after surgery, with greater range of motion, ambulation with ease and more effective hygiene. Histological analysis demonstrated the existence of a chronic inflammatory process marked by lymphomonocitary infiltrate and severe tissue edema. We observed foci of necrosis, formation of microabscesses, points of suppuration and local fibrosis organization, and pachydermia. The lymphatic vessels and some blood capillaries were increased, depicting a framework of linfangiectasias. CONCLUSION: surgical treatment of MLL proved to be important for improving patients' quality of life, functionally rehabilitating them and optimizing multidisciplinary follow-up of morbid obesity, with satisfactory surgical results and acceptable complication rates, demonstrating the importance of treatment and awareness about the disease. .

OBJETIVO: avaliar a importância do tratamento das deformidades ocasionadas pelo linfedema maciço localizado (LML) em obesos. MÉTODOS: em um período de sete anos, nove pacientes portadores de obesidade mórbida e com média etária de 33 anos, foram submetidos à ressecção cirúrgica de linfedema maciço localizado e síntese primária. Trata-se de estudo retrospectivo sobre a técnica cirúrgica empregada, incidência de complicações e melhora da qualidade de vida dos pacientes. RESULTADOS: todos os pacientes relataram expressiva melhora após o tratamento cirúrgico, apresentando maior amplitude de movimentos, com desenvoltura da deambulação e possibilidades de higiene mais efetivas. As análises histológicas demonstraram a existência de processo inflamatório crônico marcado por infiltrado linfomonocitário, acompanhado de grande edema tecidual. Foram constatados focos de necrose, formação de microabcessos, pontos de supuração e organização de fibrose local e paquidermismo. Os vasos linfáticos e alguns capilares sanguíneos apresentavam-se aumentados, definindo um quadro de linfangiectasias. CONCLUSÃO: o tratamento cirúrgico do LML mostrou-se importante para a melhora na qualidade de vida desses pacientes, reabilitando-os funcionalmente e otimizando o seguimento multidisciplinar da obesidade mórbida, com resultados cirúrgicos satisfatórios e taxas aceitáveis de complicações, demonstrando a importância do tratamento e da consciência sobre a doença. .

Avaliação da postura e dos movimentos articulares dos membros superiores de pacientes pós-mastectomia e linfadenectomia / Assessment of posture and joint movements of the upper limbs of patients after mastectomy and lymphadenectomy

OBJETIVO: Avaliar as alterações posturais e de amplitudes de movimento de membro superior nas mulheres pós-mastectomia e linfadenectomia que se submeteram à radioterapia como tratamento adjuvante. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados dois grupos: 16 mulheres pós-mastectomia com linfedema de membro superior e 14 mulheres pós-mastectomia sem linfedema. As pacientes foram submetidas à avaliação feita por programas computadorizados, um para postura e outro para medir as amplitudes de movimento de ombro, cotovelo e punho. Os resultados obtidos foram comparados entre lado direito e esquerdo, e operado e não operado, sendo submetidos a testes estatísticos. RESULTADOS: Ambos os grupos apresentaram anteriorização de tronco. As mulheres com linfedema mostraram rotação de cabeça à direita, protusão de ombro do lado esquerdo e medidas do ângulo de talhe menores do lado operado, além de elevação da escápula bilateralmente, quando comparadas ao grupo sem linfedema. As alterações de amplitude de movimento também foram menores do lado operado na flexão, abdução e rotação externa de ombro para todas as mulheres e, para aquelas que tinham linfedema, a extensão de cotovelo e a flexão de punho tiveram menor amplitude de movimento. CONCLUSÃO: Mulheres que foram submetidas à mastectomia apresentaram assimetrias e alterações de postura, e o linfedema parece agravar essa condição. Além disso, apresentaram déficits de amplitude de movimento em ombros, do lado operado. Mulheres com linfedema exibiram também déficits em cotovelo e punho.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate alterations in posture and range of motion of the upper limbs in women after mastectomy and lymphadenectomy, submitted to radiotherapy as adjuvant treatment. METHODS: Two groups were evaluated: 16 post-mastectomy women with lymphedema of the upper limb and 14 post-mastectomy women without lymphedema. Patients were submitted to analysis made by software, one for posture and the other to measure ranges of movement of the shoulder, elbow, and wrists. The results obtained were compared between the right and left sides, and operated and non-operated sides, and then were submitted to statistical tests. RESULTS: Both groups presented with anteriorization of the trunk. The women with lymphedema had head rotation to the right, protrusion of the left shoulder, and trunk inclination angle smaller on the operated side, besides bilateral elevation of the scapula when compared to the group with no lymphedema. Changes in range of motion were also smaller on the operated side in terms of flexion, abduction, and external rotation of the shoulder for all women, and for those with lymphedema, elbow extension and wrist flexion had a smaller range of motion. CONCLUSION: Women submitted to mastectomy presented with asymmetries and modifications in posture, and lymphedema seemed to worsen this condition. Additionally, they had deficits in range of motion in the shoulders on the operated side. Women with lymphedema also showed deficits in the elbows and wrist.

Alterações venosas e linfáticas em mulheres com linfedema após linfadenectomia axilar no tratamento do câncer de mama / Venous and lymphatic alterations in women with lymphedema after axillary lymphadenectomy in breast cancer treatment

OBJETIVO: Avaliar as alterações do sistema venoso axilo-subclávio e do sistema linfático em mulheres com linfedema após linfadenectomia axilar para o tratamento do câncer de mama. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo de série de casos, envolvendo 11 mulheres com linfedema unilateral de membro superior após linfadenectomia axilar para o tratamento do câncer de mama. O estudo foi realizado em hospital universitário do Brasil Central no período compreendido entre os meses de março de 2010 e março de 2011. Avaliou-se a presença de alterações venosas nas veias subclávia e axilar, por meio do exame de ultrassonografia com dopplervelocimetria, e de alterações linfáticas, pela linfocintilografia, em ambos os membros superiores. O teste Exato de Fisher foi utilizado na comparação entre os membros. RESULTADOS: No membro superior com linfedema, detectou-se diferença significativa na veia subclávia, em relação ao membro contralateral, quanto ao volume do fluxo (p<0,001), sendo que 54,6% das mulheres apresentaram fluxo aumentado. Já, na veia axilar, 45,4% apresentaram fluxo aumentado e 45,4% reduzido, com diferença significante (p<0,01) na comparação entre os membros. Também foram observadas alterações linfáticas significativas (p<0,05), em relação ao membro contralateral, representadas pelo trajeto do vaso (não visibilizado), número de vasos linfáticos (nenhum), linfonodos axilares (ausentes) e refluxo dérmico (presente). No membro superior contralateral sem linfedema, não foram encontradas alterações venosas ou linfáticas. CONCLUSÃO: As mulheres submetidas à linfadenectomia axilar para o tratamento do câncer de mama apresentam tanto alterações venosas quanto linfáticas no membro superior com linfedema.

PURPOSE: To evaluate changes in the venous axillary-subclavian and lymphatic systems of women with lymphedema after axillary lymphadenectomy for breast cancer treatment. METHODS: This was a case series involving 11 women with unilateral upper limb lymphedema after axillary lymphedenectomy for the treatment of breast cancer. The study was carried out in the Mastology Program of the Clinical Hospital of the Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, during the period between March 2010 and March 2011. Doppler velocimetry ultrasonography was used to detect the presence of venous changes in the subclavian and axillary veins. Lymphatic changes were evaluated by lymphoscintigraphy in both upper limbs. Fisher's exact test was used for the comparison between limbs. RESULTS: Subclavian vein flow volume in the upper limb with lymphedema was significantly different from that in the contralateral limb (p<0.001), 54.6% of the women had increased flow. In the axillary vein, 45.4% had increased flow and 45.4% had decreased flow, with a statistically significant difference (p<0.01) between limbs. Compared to the contralateral limb, significant lymphatic changes (p<0.05) were also found in the vessel route (not visualized), number of lymphatic vessels (none), axillary lymph nodes (absent) and dermal reflux (present). In the contralateral upper limb without lymphedema, no venous or lymphatic alterations were encountered. CONCLUSION: The women subjected to axillary lymphadenectomy for the treatment of breast cancer presented both venous and lymphatic changes in the upper limb with lymphedema.

Comparison of quality of life, satisfaction with surgery and shoulder-arm morbidity in breast cancer survivors submitted to breast-conserving therapy or mastectomy followed by immediate breast reconstruction

OBJECTIVES: This study was designed to compare the prevalence of shoulder-arm morbidity, patient satisfaction with surgery and the quality of life of women submitted to breast-conserving therapy or modified radical mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction . METHODS: This study was a cross-sectional study of women who underwent breast-conserving therapy (n=44) or modified radical mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction (n=26). Quality of life was evaluated with the SF-36 Health Survey Questionnaire. RESULTS: No differences were found in the prevalence of lymphedema. The movements that were most commonly affected by these procedures were abduction, flexion and external rotation. When the two groups were compared, however, we only found a statistically significant difference for the prevalence of restricted internal rotation, which occurred in 32 percent of women in the breast-conserving therapy group and 12 percent of those in the modified radical mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction group (OR: 7.23; p=0.03 following adjustment for potential confounding factors). No difference in quality of life or satisfaction with surgery was found between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: These data suggest that the type of surgery did not affect the occurrence of lymphedema. Breast-conserving therapy, however, increased the risk of shoulder movement limitation. No differences were found between the two surgical techniques with respect to quality of life or satisfaction with surgery.

Enfermedad de morbihan / Morbihan´s disease

La enfermedad de Morbihan (morbus Morbihan) es una entidad poco frecuente, que se caracteriza por la aparición recurrente, a nivel del tercio medio y superior del rostro, de eritema y edema, que conducen a una induración desfigurante. Actualmente se plantea que la urticaria de contacto inmunológica desempeña un rol crucial en la patogenia. Presentamos un paciente de 65 años con enfermedad de Morbihan de 2 años de evolución.

Morbihan’ s disease (morbus Morbihan) is an infrecuent entity, characterized by the appearance of relapsing erithema and edema on the center and upper aspect of the face, leading to disfi guring induration.Nowadays, immunologic contact urticaria plays a crucial role in the pa-togenesis. We present a 65 year-old patient with Morbihan’ s disease, with its onset 2 years ago.

Mechanical lymphatic drainage in the treatment of arm lymphedema.

Exercising is one of the three cornerstones in the treatment of lymphedema together with contention mechanisms and lymphatic drainage. The aim of the current study was to evaluate a new method of mechanic lymphatic drainage. Volumetric reductions were evaluated after passive exercises in 25 patients with arm lymphedema resulting from breast cancer treatment. Their ages ranged between 42 and 86 years old. All patients were submitted to one-hour sessions using the RAGodoy® electromechanical apparatus which performs from 15 to 25 elbow bending and stretching exercises per minute. Volumetry, using the water displacement technique, was performed before and after the sessions. The paired t-test was employed for statistical analysis with an alpha error of less than 5% being considered acceptable. The reduction in volume was significant (P-value < 0.001) with a mean initial volume of 2026.4 and final volume of 1967.2 giving a mean loss of 59.2 mL. The RAGodoy® apparatus was efficient to reduce the volume of lymphedematous arms and is an option for the treatment of lymphedema.

Bandagem úmida empregada com baixa elasticidade no tratamento de úlcera em paciente com lipolinfedema / Damp low-stretch bandage employed in the treatment of an ulcer in patient with lipolymphedema

O lipedema é caracterizado pelo aumento bilateral e simétrico dosmembros inferiores, sem o acometimento dos pés, sinal de Stemmernegativo, podendo ocorrer hipotermia cutânea, alteração no suporteplantar e hiperalgesia. O objetivo do presente estudo é relatar umaforma incomum de lesão ulcerada em paciente com lipolinfedematratado com bandagem úmida empregada com baixa elasticidade.Paciente, do sexo feminino, de 50 anos, com história familiar delipedema refere vários episódios de erisipela em membro inferioresquerdo há cerca de 20 anos e com surgimento de úlceras de difícilcicatrização há mais de cinco anos. Foi tratada com bandagemúmida de baixa elasticidade e teve boa evolução com cicatrização da ferida. Lesões ulceradas são raras no lipolinfedema, porém a sua ocorrência esta associada com dificuldade na cicatrização.

Evidence for the exacerbation of lymphedema of geochemical origin, podoconiosis, by onchocerciasis

The study was conducted to investigate a variation in the distribution of endemic elephantiasis previously determined to be of geochemical origin in three neighbouring and essentially homogenous villages, Bambili, Bambui and Finge of the Bambui Health District of NW Cameroon. A total of 301 subjects were examined for onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis in the area using standard procedures. The onchocercal microfilarial prevalence varied from 6.5% in Bambili through 20.4% in Bambui to 60.4% in Finge. The onchocercal serological prevalence based on IgG4 detection followed a similar trend. By contrast, blood microfilariae were absent in the area as verified by use of sensitive techniques. The community prevalence of elephantiasis varied from 1.1% in Bambili to 4.4% in Bambui and 10.4% in Finge. The correlation between the parasitological prevalence of onchocerciasis and the prevalence of lymphedema in the three villages was strong [r = 0.99, p < 0.05]. We confirm that the elephantiasis in the area is of geochemical origin and the results suggest that it is being exacerbated by onchocercal lymphadenitis