Diagnosis of primary lymphedema with indocyanine green lymphography / 中华整形外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective@#To evaluate the diagnostic value of indocyanine green(ICG)lymphography in primary lymphedema of extremities.@*Methods@#61 patients with limb lymphedema were enrolled in the study. The contralateral healthy limbs were used as controls. After intradermal injection of Indocyanine Green, dynamic observation of lymphatic vessels and lymph flow was performed using PDE near-infrared fluorescent instrument. The frequency of lymphatic contraction was calculated.@*Results@#Lymphatic vessel images were clearly visualized in healthy limbs. Inguinal or axillary lymph nodes can be visualized when examined 30 minutes after injection. Lymphatic contraction frequency was 1(0.33-5.00)time per minute. 94.8% lymphedematous limb demonstrated delayed lymphatic vessel or lymph nodes. "Dermal backflow" and diffused shadow pattern can be observed in all affected limbs. Abnormal lymphatic vasculature and contraction can be visualized. The frequency of lymphatic contraction in the affected limb was higher compared to controls 2.5(0.5-7.0) times per minute.@*Conclusions@#ICG lymphography possess high sensitivity for lymphedema diagnosis. ICG lymphography furthers our understanding of pathophysiological alterations of lymphatic disorders.