Lymphedema

Book excerpt: Lymphedema: Complete Surgical and Medical Management is one of the first books to cover the state of the field, encompassing both surgical and nonsurgical treatments. It is divided into several areas: Anatomy, Physiology, and Lymphangiogenesis Pathophysiology and Clinical Presentation Diagnosis Treatment - including surgical and pharmacologic therapy Research and Future Directions Buidling on this foundation, the text discusses diagnostic modalities, biomarkers, and differential lymph node mapping and clinical staging. It includes the history of lymphedema treatment and an overview of various past and present treatments in India and China, then explores pharmacological options, excisional approaches, liposuction, and venous implantation methods. Detailed presentations of lymphatic grafts and surgical treatments round out the coverage. The book closes with a discussion on animal models, improving patient outcomes, and the potential use of stem cells in lymphedema management. Using a consistent format throughout, the book includes more than 500 illustrations, many in color. A DVD with practical surgical videos is included. With US, European, and Asian-Pacific contributing experts, this book presents a truly global approach.