Carl, H.M., Walia, G., Bello, R., Clarke-Pearson, E., Hassanein, A.H., Cho, B., . . . Sacks, J.M. (2017). Systematic review of the surgical treatment of extremity lymphedema. Journal of Reconstructive Microsurgery. Advance online publication.
STUDY PURPOSE: To examine the results of various surgical treatment for lymphema
TYPE OF STUDY: Systematic review
PHASE OF CARE: Not specified or not applicable
The findings suggest that various surgical techniques can be effective to reduce limb volume; however, the research has several limitations. Relatively few studies examine each specific technique, and little evidence comparing these techniques to outcomes with other interventions known to be effective exists.
A variety of surgical techniques and microsurgical procedures are being evaluated for their effects on the development of lymphedema. Currently, limited evidence supports any particular procedure or technique. Nurses should be aware of any potential long-term side effects of such procedures as this information becomes available.