Microsurgical Lymph Node Transfer Shows Promise in Treating Lymphedema

Dec. 13, 2010 - PRLog -- Doctors at the Plastic Surgery Center in Shrewsbury NJ are optimistic about the results of a new treatment for lymphedema. Currently there are no medications that can successfully treat lymphedema, but a relatively new procedure called microsurgical lymph node transfer has shown promise in the treatment of this condition.

Lymphedema is an abnormal buildup of fluid that causes swelling, most often in the arms or legs. The condition develops when lymph vessels or lymph nodes are missing, impaired, damaged, or removed.  Lymphedema typically develops in individuals who have had certain surgical procedures that remove a lymph node or radiation therapy to a lymph node region. The condition can occur within a few days, months, or even years after surgery.

The most common treatments for lymphedema include bandaging, proper skin care and diet, compression garments, exercises, and manual lymphatic drainage, a gentle form of skin stretching/massage.  Now, doctors at The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction at The Plastic Surgery Center are offering an alternate procedure that may provide patients with more relief.

Microsurgical lymph node transfer uses cutting edge microsurgical techniques in which lymph nodes are transferred to the affected limb, resulting in an improvement in limb swelling and decrease in infection rate in most patients. Lymph node transfer surgery is a relatively new and exciting option for the management of lymphedema.

Please contact Dr. Ashinoff at The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction at The Plastic Surgery Center by calling 1-866-263-9123 to learn more about the treatment of lymphedema and to schedule an evaluation for a microsurgical lymph node transfer.

About Dr. Russell Ashinoff
Dr. Ashinoff is highly skilled in all aspects of cosmetic, reconstructive, and hand surgery, and specializes in breast reconstruction and body contouring after massive weight loss. Dr. Ashinoff has expertise in the latest minimally invasive techniques for rejuvenation and reconstruction of the face, breasts, and body.

http://www.looknatural.com/pages/dr-ashinoff/

About The Plastic Surgery Center
Dr. Ashinoff is a part of the medical team at the Institute for Advanced Reconstruction at the Plastic Surgery Center, which is comprised of a group of surgeons who are highly skilled in nerve transplantation, microsurgery and advanced reconstruction. They perform a number of unique operations to help patients suffering from life-altering medical conditions who are often told there are no treatment options available. Some of these conditions include:

•   Lymphedema
•   Paralysis resulting from accidents and strokes
•   Diabetic neuropathy
•   Paralyzed diaphragm/ventilator-based breathing
•   Facial reanimation
•   Nerve decompression for migraine headaches

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