Lymphedema
Conditions We Treat
At our center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a range of chronic conditions that cause unilateral (one-sided) or bilateral arm or leg enlargement. While often initially labeled as lymphedema and referred to vascular medicine consultants, these cases require comprehensive evaluation due to the possibility of various systemic and localized disorders leading to chronic limb swelling. It’s important to recognize that patients may experience more than one condition contributing to their leg swelling.
Lymphedema: A Common Yet Complex Disorder
Lymphedema is a complex and challenging medical issue frequently encountered in practice. Despite its prevalence, there is a persistent misconception that it’s a rare or historically relevant disorder. This universal neglect of lymphedema has been frustrating for both patients and healthcare providers alike (Rockson SG, Stanford).
• Global incidence of lymphedema: Estimated at around 140 million cases worldwide.
• Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) disease: Approximately 40 million people exhibit LF symptoms like lymphedema, elephantiasis, and hydrocele.
• Lymphedema awareness: Gaining attention after being termed the “hidden epidemic,” yet likely underdiagnosed.
• Risk factors and causes: Predisposing factors for lymphedema are unclear, and India bears 45% of the LF burden. Rising cases due to cancer, trauma, and venous diseases.
• Lifelong management: Lymphedema requires continuous attention due to its chronic nature.
• Age and causes: Lymphedema can occur at any age, congenitally, due to cancer, trauma, or infection, affecting various body parts.
• Differentiating edema: Lymphedema differs from edema, involving high-protein fluid buildup due to lymphatic system failure.
• Term evolution: “Lymphedema” emerged in the 20th century with manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) and comprehensive decongestive physiotherapy (CDP).
• Diverse causes: Lymphedema can be inherited (primary) or due to trauma (secondary). Filariasis, trauma, cancer, and venous diseases are causes.
• Global prevalence: Shanghai and Germany report significant cases of secondary lymphedema due to malignancy.
• Importance of diagnosis: Accurate diagnosis and management are crucial to alleviate lymphedema’s impact.
Our Expertise in Lymphedema
We specialize in treating various types of lymphedema, including:
1. Parasitic (Filarial): Addressing the impact of lymphatic filariasis, a parasitic disease affecting millions of people in tropical countries. Chronic leg swelling, ADLA attacks, and other complications require careful management (World Health Organization).
2. Primary Lymphedema: Treating benign conditions caused by lymphatic malformations or genetic factors (VEGFR3, GJA1).
3. Secondary Lymphedema: Addressing swelling resulting from extrinsic factors like cancer, radiation, trauma, or surgery.
4. Post-Surgical Lymphedema: Addressing swelling following procedures such as groin or axillary dissection, as well as arterial reconstructions.
5. Venous/Phlebo Lymphedema: Providing solutions for cases where venous insufficiency interacts with lymphatic dysfunction.
6. Mixed Lymphovenous Edemas: Offering comprehensive care for cases with combined lymphatic and venous involvement.
7. Lipedema-Obesity-Related Lymphedema: Obesity-related lymphedema refers to swelling in limbs or body areas caused by excess fat tissue and impaired lymphatic function due to obesity.
8. Neurogenic and Muscular Disorders: Treating complex regional pain syndrome, neurogenic muscular hypertrophy, and other related conditions.
Our Approach to Care
We understand the unique challenges each condition presents and tailor our treatments to individual needs. Our dedicated team of experts utilizes the latest advancements in medical science to provide effective solutions. Whether you’re dealing with primary lymphedema, secondary complications, or other related issues, we’re here to support you on your journey to improved health.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and embark on a path towards better well-being.
Our Team
Meet our skilled and compassionate team of medical professionals who are committed to delivering the highest quality care to our patients. With a combined experience of over (X years), our experts are dedicated to finding innovative solutions and providing personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.
Awards and Recognition
We take pride in the recognition and awards we’ve received for our commitment to excellence in patient care and treatment. These accolades serve as a testament to our continuous pursuit of improving healthcare outcomes and making a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.
Other Activities
In addition to our primary services, we’re actively involved in various activities aimed at raising awareness, advancing research, and promoting better understanding of lymphatic and related disorders. We strive to contribute positively to our community and the field of healthcare through our initiatives.
Center of Excellence (COE)
Our dedication to excellence has led us to establish the Center of Excellence (COE), a hub for research, education, and advanced treatment approaches in the field of lymphatic disorders. Through COE, we aim to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and enhance the quality of care for individuals dealing with these complex conditions.