Advances in treatment of lymphedema with supraclavicular vascularized lymph node transfer / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To review the research progress of supraclavicular vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT).@*METHODS@#The research literature related to supraclavicular VLNT at home and abroad in recent years was extensively reviewed, and the anatomy of supraclavicular lymph nodes, clinical applications, and complications of supraclavicular VLNT were summarized.@*RESULTS@#The supraclavicular lymph nodes are anatomically constant, located in the posterior cervical triangle zone, and the blood supply comes mainly from the transverse cervical artery. There are individual differences in the number of supraclavicular lymph nodes, and preoperative ultrasonography is helpful to clarify the number of lymph nodes. Clinical studies have shown that supraclavicular VLNT can relieve limb swelling, reduce the incidence of infection, and improve quality of life in patients with lymphedema. And the effectiveness of supraclavicular VLNT can be improved by combined with lymphovenous anastomosis, resection procedures, and liposuction.@*CONCLUSION@#There are a large number of supraclavicular lymph nodes, with abundant blood supply. It has been proven to be effective for any period of lymphedema, and the combined treatment is more effective. The more clinical studies are needed to clarify the effectiveness of supraclavicular VLNT alone or in combination, as well as the surgical approach and timing of the combined treatment.

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.

Identification and preservation of arm lymphatics in axillary lymph node dissection to prevent arm lymphedema: a single center randomized controlled trial / 中华肿瘤杂志

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility of identification and preservation of arm lymphatics (DEPART) in axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) for breast cancer to prevent arm lymphedema. Methods: A randomized controlled study method was used. Two hundred and sixty-five patients who underwent breast cancer surgery at the Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University from November 2017 to June 2018 were included, and the patients were randomly divided into ALND+ DEPART group (132 patients) and standard ALND group (133 patients) by random number table method. In the ALND+ DEPART group, indocyanine green and methylene blue were injected as tracers before surgery, and the arm sentinel nodes was visualized by staged tracing during intraoperative dissection of axillary lymph nodes. Partial frozen sections were made of arm lymph nodes >1 cm in length and hard and suspicious of metastasis, and arm lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels were selectively preserved. Patients in the standard ALND group underwent standard ALND. Objective and subjective indexes of arm lymphedema were evaluated by 5-point circumference measurement and Norman questionnaire. Results: Among 132 breast cancer patients in the ALND+ DEPART group, 121 (91.7%) completed DEPART. There were no statistically significant differences in age, body mass index, pathological type, dissection number of axillary lymph node, N stage, TNM stage, molecular typing, and regional radiotherapy between the ALND+ DEPART and standard ALND groups (P>0.05). At a median follow-up of 24 months, assessment by the 5-point circumference measurement showed that the incidence rates of lymphedema in the ALND+ DEPART and standard ALND groups were 5.0% (6/121) and 15.8% (21/133), respectively, with statistically significant differences (P=0.005). Assessment by the Norman questionnaire showed that the incidence rates of lymphedema in the ALND+ DEPART and standard ALND groups were 5.8% (7/121) and 21.8% (29/133), respectively, with a statistically significant difference (P<0.001). No local regional recurrence was observed in either group during the follow-up period. Conclusion: For breast cancer patients with positive axillary lymph nodes, the administration of DEPART during ALND can reduce or avoid the occurrence of arm lymphedema without compromising oncology safety.

Calidad de vida en pacientes sometidos al tratamiento quirúrgico del linfedema: validación lingüística y adaptación transcultural del Lymphedema Quality of Life Score (LeQOLiS) / Quality of life in patients undergoing to surgical treatment of lymphedema: linguistic validation and transcultural adaptation of Lymphedema Quality of Life Score (LeQOLiS)

Resumen Introducción El linfedema es una enfermedad crónica, progresiva y debilitante, con un impacto significativo en la calidad de vida de los pacientes. Diversos estudios han evaluado instrumentos y cuestionarios enfocados en reportar resultados del tratamiento quirúrgico del linfedema y el impacto en su calidad de vida, desde la perspectiva del paciente. Destaca recientemente el Lymphedema Quality of Life Score (LeQOLiS) , método de aplicación simple en la práctica clínica, con excelente correlación fisiopatológica de la enfermedad. Objetivo Validación lingüística y adaptación transcultural del Lymphedema Quality of Life Score, publicado originalmente en inglés. Materiales y Método Se realizó la validación lingüística siguiendo las guías MAPI/TRUST Research Institute ; traducción inglés-español, contra traducción español-inglés, conciliación inglés-inglés y aplicación de ésta en 6 individuos. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva y analítica en los resultados. Resultados Las 6 pacientes evaluadas, fueron de sexo femenino, edad promedio 49 ± 17 (SD) años, IMC 27 ± 5 kg/m2. Todos los pacientes encuestados presentaron una considerable disminución de la puntuación total en el período postoperatorio (p = 0,027). Conclusión Lymphedema Quality of Life Score es un instrumento válido, confiable y reproducible para la evaluación objetiva del impacto del tratamiento quirúrgico del linfedema en la calidad de vida de los pacientes.

Background Lymphedema is a chronic, progressive and debilitating disease with a significant impact on patients' quality life. Multiple instruments and questionnaires have been carried out focused in results of the surgical treatment of lymphedema and their impact in quality of life, from the perspective of patients. One recently published, "Lymphedema Quality of Life Score (LeQOLiS), is a simple method to use in clinical practice, with an excellent physiopathological correlation of the disease. Aim Linguistic validation and transcultural adaptation of Lymphedema Quality of Life Score, published in English originally. Materials and Method The linguistic validation guidelines of the MAPI/TRUST Research institute were used and the survey was applied to six patients. Descriptive and analytical statistics were used. Results Six female patients surveyed, mean age 49 ± 17 years and the mean body mass index was 27 ± 5 kg/m2.All the patients had a decrease in the total score in the postoperative period. Conclusions The Lymphedema Quality of Life Score is a valid, reliable and reproducible instrument to objectively assess the impact of the surgical treatment of lymphedema in the quality of life.

Linfedema escrotal gigante en un paciente con falectomía parcial / Giant scrotal lymphedema in a patient with partial falectomy

Se describe el caso clínico de un paciente que, 7 años después de habérsele realizado una falectomía parcial con linfadenectomía inguinal superficial y quimioterapia (cisplatino 150) por un carcinoma epidermoide del pene, acudió al Servicio de Urología del Hospital General Docente Dr. Juan Bruno Zayas Alfonso en Santiago de Cuba por presentar un linfedema gigantesco de escroto, de origen obstructivo linfático, con marcada repercusión sobre la posición bípeda y la marcha. Se realizó el procedimiento quirúrgico (técnica de Homans con modificaciones) y el paciente evolucionó satisfactoriamente. Luego de 2 años de operado, se le dio el alta de la consulta externa, pues se consideró que había recuperado la capacidad físico-motora y su autoestima.

The case report of a patient is described who, 7 years after carrying out a partial falectomy with inguinal superficial lymphadenectomy and chemotherapy (cisplatin 150) due to an squamous cell carcinoma of the penis, he went to the Urology Service of Dr. Juan Bruno Zayas Alfonso Teaching General Hospital in Santiago de Cuba presenting a giant scrotal lymphedema, of lymphatic obstructive origin, with marked repercussion on the biped position and during walking. The surgical procedure (Homans technique with modifications) was carried out and the patient had a satisfactory clinical course. Then after 2 years of surgery, he was discharged from the out-patient service, because it was considered that he had recovered the physical motor skills and his self-esteem.

Linfedema: actualización en el diagnóstico y tratamiento quirúrgico / Lymphedema: update in diagnosis and surgical treatment

El linfedema es la acumulación de fluido rico en proteínas en el intersticio, secundario a anomalías en el sistema de transporte linfático. En países desarrollados se relaciona más frecuentemente al tratamiento quirúrgico del cáncer. El diagnóstico clínico y a través de técnicas de imágenes es fundamental para evaluar el estado funcional del sistema linfático. Los objetivos principales en el manejo del linfedema son limitar la morbilidad del paciente, mejorar la funcionalidad y la calidad de vida. El tratamiento quirúrgico es una alternativa cuando las medidas conservadoras ya no son suficientes. Existen procedimientos que buscan prevenir el desarrollo del linfedema y técnicas que incluye procedimientos fisiológicos (reconstructivos) y resectivos que se utilizan cuando el linfedema ya está establecido. El éxito depende de una buena elección de los pacientes y la realización de un tratamiento individualizado. A continuación se presenta una revisión en cuanto a las últimas estrategias diagnósticas y actualización en las técnicas quirúrgicas con énfasis en el tratamiento microquirúrgico.

Lymphedema is the accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the interstitium, secondary to abnormalities in the lymphatic transport system. In developed countries it is more often related to surgical treatment of cancer. The clinical diagnosis and through imaging techniques is fundamental to evaluate the functional status of the lymphatic system. The main objectives in managing lymphedema are to limit patient morbidity, improve functionality and quality of life. Surgical treatment is an option when conservative measures are no longer sufficient. There are procedures that seek to prevent the development of lymphedema, and techniques that include physiological (reconstructive) and resective procedures that are used when lymphedema is already established. Success depends on a good selection of patients and the completion of an individualized treatment. The following is a review article of the latest diagnostic strategies and update in surgical techniques with emphasis on microsurgical treatment.

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.

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.

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.

Diabetic foot ulcers combination with lower limb lymphedema treated by staged charles procedure: case report and literature review

Primary or secondary, lymphedema is lymphatic dysfunction which results in protein-rich interstitial fluid accumulated in the skin and subcutaneous tissue. In developed countries, surgical resection of regional lymph nodes or chronic inflammation process is the most common etiology of lymphedema instead of parasite infection seen in developing countries. Patients with lymphedema sustain either cosmetic or functional problems, and several studies have indicated the potential risk, though not high, transforming lymphedema to lymphangiosarcoma. Here we introduce a simple idea with staged Charles procedure by a case report to decrease the size of wound healing in each procedure and decreasing the rate of surgical complication

Linfedema após o câncer de mama - da epidemiologia ao tratamento / Lymphedema after breast cancer - from epidemiology to treatment

O linfedema é uma condição incurável e incapacitante e afeta aproximadamente 5 mil novos pacientes com câncer de mama ao ano no Brasil. Além do impacto social e psicológico, essa mortalidade tem grande impacto na saúde pública em consequência de sua elevada prevalência e do bom prognóstico do câncer de mama. Mesmo sendo uma morbidade de sequela do tratamento oncológico, o linfedema, de certa forma, infelizmente, tem siso negligenciado pelos profissionais da sáude. Essa desconsideração por essa indesejável doença causa atrasos no diagnóstico, discordâncias na abordagem terapêutica e consequentemente pior prognóstico do linfedema. Este artigo de revisão ressalta os aspectos mais relevantes sobre o linfedema pós-linfadectomia.

Lymphedema is an incurable and disabling condition. In Brazil, it affects approximately 5000 new breast cancer patients per year. Despite its social and psychological impact, it has a major impact in public health care, because of its high prevalence and the good prognosis of breast cancer patients. Nevertheless lymphedema is a morbidity associated with the surgical treatment; it has been unfortunately disregarded by health professionals. This negligence causes delayed diagnoses, discrepancies in treatment approaches and consequently a poorer prognosis of the lymphedema. This review highlights the most relevant aspects of the post-lymphadenectomy lymphedema

Surgical treatment of lymphedema of the penis and scrotum

INTRODUÇÃO: O linfedema peno-escrotal, independentemente da etiologia, é determinado pela redução do fluxo linfático com conseqüente aumento do volume do escroto e pênis. A evolução clínica da doença é caracterizada com extremo desconforto ao paciente, limitando a higiene local, a deambulação, o intercurso sexual e a micção em posição ortostática. OBJETIVO: Apresentar a experiência e resultados no tratamento da patologia com remoção dos tecidos comprometidos e correção peno-escrotal. MÉTODO: Foram tratados 17 pacientes com linfedema do escroto e pênis com a técnica de Charles modificada, que consiste na excisão da pele comprometida seguida de escrotoplastia e sutura mediana simulando a rafe escrotal. O pênis é recoberto com enxerto de pele parcial suturado em linha quebrada na face ventral. RESULTADOS: No seguimento dos pacientes, que variou entre 6 meses e 6 anos, constatou-se regressão dos sintomas e melhora das condições clínicas prévias. Um paciente submetido à linfadenectomia com radioterapia por câncer de pênis teve recidiva do linfedema escrotal. CONCLUSÃO: A técnica de Charles modificada no tratamento do linfedema peno-escrotal é facilmente reprodutível e possibilita com seus resultados melhor higiene local, melhor movimentação, micção em posição ortostática, retomada do intercurso sexual e, finalmente, melhor aparência à região comprometida com franca melhora da qualidade de vida.

Incidência e fatores de risco do linfedema após tratamento cirúrgico para câncer de mama: estudo de uma coorte hospitalar

Introdução: O avanço das técnicas cirúrgicas no tratamento do câncer de mama, aliado aos recursos atualmente disponíveis, como quimioterapia, radioterapia e hormonoterapia, prolongaram a sobrevida dos pacientes. Segundo dados dos registros hospitalares de câncer do INCA, entre 2000 e 2001, 50% dos casos de câncer de mama foram diagnosticados nos estádios III e IV. Quanto mais tardio for o diagnóstico, maiores serão as seqüelas do tratamento, sendo o linfedema, uma das principais, constituindo-se em foco de atenção primordial do sistema de saúde pública. Objetivo geral: Determinar a incidência e os fatores associados ao linfedema em uma coorte de mulheres submetidas a tratamento cirúrgico para câncer de mama. Metodologia: Estudo de coorte prospectivo das mulheres tratadas cirurgicamente para câncer de mama no período de agosto/2001 a novembro/2002. O seguimento preconizou uma reavaliação no primeiro dia após a cirurgia e nas consultas ambulatoriais de seguimento, agendadas para 30 dias, 6 meses, 12 meses, 18 meses e 24 meses. Todas as avaliações foram padronizadas, sendo utilizados instrumentos especificamente elaborados e testados para tal fim. O critério para diagnóstico de linfedema foi baseado na proposta de Casley-Smith que adota a perimetria dos membros superiores. Resultados: Foram estudadas 1004 mulheres com idade média de 56 anos e tempo médio de seguimento de 19 meses. A incidência acumulada de linfedema no período de 24 meses foi de 17,5%. As variáveis que foram estatisticamente associadas ao linfedema, na análise multivariada de Cox, foram: radioterapia em cadeias de drenagem (HR=3,10 IC 1,99-4,85), edema precoce (HR=2,86 IC 1,51-5,43), sobrepeso ou obesidade (HR=1,89 IC 1,19-3,01), seroma (HR=1,75 IC 1,11-2,76), número de ciclos de quimioterapia administrados no membro superior homolateral ao câncer de mama (HR=1,19 IC 1,08-1,32) e idade (HR=1,02 IC 1,01-1,04). Conclusão: A incidência de linfedema após 2 anos de seguimento foi elevada e a radioterapia realizada em cadeias de drenagem foi o mais forte preditor do risco. As mulheres obesas devem ser incentivadas a reduzir o peso corporal e a aplicação de quimioterapia deve ser evitada no membro homolateral ao câncer de mama. Protocolos de reabilitação pós-operatória devem ser instituídos, com base no modelo preditor do risco de desenvolvimento do linfedema, visando uma melhor qualidade de vida para as mulheres tratadas com câncer de mama.

Introduction: Breast cancer is an important problem in public health due to the high incidence and mortality. According to data gathered from cancer patients’ hospital charts at the INCA (National Cancer Institute) between 2000 and 2001, 50% of breast cancer cases were diagnosed at stages III and IV. The later the diagnosis, the greater the possible treatment sequelae, among which lymphedema is the main one, constituting a primary focus of concern in the public health system. Main purpose: Determining the incidence and the factors associated with the development of lymphedema in a cohort of women subjected to axillary lymphadenectomy for breast cancer. Method: Prospective cohort study of women surgically treated for breast cancer from August 2001 to November 2002. The follow-up prescribed a re-evaluation on the first day after surgery and at the follow-up outpatient appointments scheduled for 30 days, 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 24 months. All evaluations were standardized, with the use of instruments specifically created and tested for this purpose. The criterion for lymphedema diagnosis was based on Casley- Smith’s proposal: measurement of upper limb circumference. Results: One thousand and four women were studied, averaging 56 years of age and with an average follow-up period of 19 months. The overall incidence of lymphedema in the 24-month period was 17.5%. On the basis of Cox multivariate analysis, the variables statistically associated with lymphedema were: axillary radiotherapy (Harzard Ratio HR=3,10 IC 1,99-4,85), early edema (HR=2,86 IC 1,51-5,43), overweight or obesity (HR=1,89 IC 1,19-3,01), seroma (HR=1,75 IC 1,11-2,76), number of chemotherapy cycles administered to the upper limb homolateral to the breast cancer (HR=1,19 IC 1,08-1,32) and age (HR=1,02 IC 1,01-1,04). Conclusion: The incidence of lymphedema after two-years of follow-up was high, and axillary radiotherapy was the variable wich more explained the development of lymphedema. Obese women should be encouraged to reduce weight, and the upper limb homolateral to the breast cancer should be avoided when administering chemotherapy. Protocols for post-surgical rehabilitation must be established, aiming at a better quality of life for women treated for breast cancer.

Fatores de risco relecionados ao linfedema / Risk factors related to lymphedema

Com diagnósticos mais precoces e avanços no tratamento do câncer de mama, houve um aumento da sobrevida das pacientes, porém muitas vezes associada a morbidades, como, por exemplo, o linfedema. Por ser uma condição crônica e complexa, ele interfere em muitos aspectos físicos, sociais, emocionais e psicológicos. No presente trabalho, serão discutidos alguns fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento do linfedema, como cirurgia associada a axilectomia, radioterapia, obesidade, idade, amplitude de movimento do ombro, entre outros. Serão feitos também alguns comentários sobre a fisioterapia, que é a principal forma de tratamento.

The improvement of treatment and early diagnosis of breast cancer has given patients a longer life, therefore associated with many morbidities such as lymphedema. Been a cronical and complex condition, interfere in many physical, social, emotional and psychological aspects. In the present study the risk factors for developing lymphedema will be discussed, such as surgery associated with axillectomy, radiotherapy, infections, obesity, age, shoulder mobility, among others. The physiotherapy is used as the main treatment for lymphedema.

Variantes quirúrgicas para el tratamiento del linfedema primario de pene y escroto / Surgical variants for the treatment of primary penile and scrotal lymphoedema

Se presentan 2 variantes técnicas del tratamiento quirúrgico del linfedema primario de pene y escroto en 2 pacientes con características clínicas diferentes. Una de las técnicas quirúrgicas empleadas consistió en 2 incisiones laterales en las bolsas escrotales con resección del tejido linfedematoso y la otra con una incisión única en la bolsa y reimplantación de la base del pene con resección de todo el tejido linfedematoso. En ambos casos antes de intentar la resección del tejido linfedematoso se extrajeron de su lecho el cordón espermático y los testículos para facilitar la operación, minimizar el tiempo quirúrgico y producir menos complicaciones. La propia piel del cuello de la bolsa escrotal se emplea en su reconstrucción e incluso para acomodar los testículos. No se hizo necesario, con estas técnicas, realizar injerto libre ni pediculado de piel. Los pacientes recuperaron la capacidad funcional del pene, tuvieron mejoría estética y desapareció la angustia que esta enfermedad les ocasionaba(AU)

Two technical variants of the surgical treatment of primary penile and scrotal lymphoedema used in 2 patients with different clinical characteristics are presented. One of the surgical techniques used consisted in 2 lateral incisions in the scrotal bursae with resection of the lymphoedematous tissue and the other in a single incision in the bursa and reimplantation of the basis of the penis with resection of all the lymphoedematous tissue. In both cases, before attempting the resection of the lymphoedematous tissue the spermatic cord and the testes were removed from their bed to facilitate the operation, to reduce the surgical time and to cause less complications. The own skin of the neck of the scrotal bursa is used in its reconstruction and even to accomodate the testes. By using these techniques, it was not necessary to make a free or pediculate skin graft. Patients recovered the functional capacity of the penis, had an aesthetic improvement and the anguish produced by this disease disappeared(AU)