Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT)

We offer functional lymphatic transfer — which includes microsurgical transfer of healthy, non-essential lymph nodes (the “flap”) to the affected area.

Microvascular connections are performed for the flap artery and vein, but not the lymphatic channels. Outcomes from multiple groups worldwide have shown clinical improvement after surgery, with reduced extremity volume; decreased pain and heaviness; increased extremity function; and decreased incidence of cellulitis

Lymph node transfer is most commonly performed for patients with later-stage lymphedema with predominance of fat/adipose and scarred/fibrotic tissue changes.

Since microvascular lymph node transfer is a major surgery, you must be in good general health in order to be a candidate.

A variety of tissue designs are available. Vascularized lymph node transfers (VLNT) remain the most common, but other techniques gaining popularity include vascularized lymph channel transfer (VLCT) and lymphatic system transfer (LYST), which include afferent lymph channels and their natural connections to the dominant draining lymph nodes.

The donor tissue may be taken from a variety of nonessential areas on the body, including above the clavicle, under the chin, within the abdomen, and from the groin. Special measures are taken to specifically prevent causing lymphedema in the donor sites.

Functional lymphatic transfer requires transplantation of tissue including repair of an artery and vein using an operating microscope. Thus, inpatient admission for 3 to 5 days is required for close ICU-level monitoring of the transplant. Patients are able to be safely discharged home and typically do not require nursing facility needs.

For more in-depth discussion, please contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our specialist lymphedema surgeons.