What is secondary lymphedema? Secondary lymphedema is caused by acquired reasons. The causes of secondary lymphedema include trauma, repeated infections, malignant tumors and metastasis. In developed countries, the most common cause is malignant tumors, including those caused by cancer treatment. In developing countries, it is mainly due to secondary nematode infections or filariasis.
Surgery alone does not commonly cause lymphedema because lymph has a powerful reflux capacity. More than 60% of patients have significant lymphatic damage after great saphenous vein surgery. Lymphedema after great saphenous vein surgery is not common. However, patients should be examined before surgery because vein stripping significantly accelerates mild lymphedema. Patients with venous disease indicate significant impairment of lymphatic reflux.
Even a thorough lymph node dissection for malignant tumors does not always lead to secondary lymphedema. If it occurs, it is a late complication. The reason is unclear, but the loss of distal lymphatic function requires pumping lymph through proximal channels at higher pressure. If radiation therapy is also performed, the risk of lymphedema is higher because fibrous scars reduce channel regeneration.
Cellulitis combined with lower limb venous disease accelerates venous hypertension swelling, making venous ulcers difficult to heal because lymph seeps through the ulcers.
What is secondary lymphedema? The above is a detailed introduction by experts on what secondary lymphedema is, hoping it can help you. If you have more questions, you can consult online with experts from Shanxi Yikang Peripheral Vascular Hospital. Finally, I wish you good health.
For more details, please visit the lymphedema special section of Shanxi Yikang Peripheral Vascular Hospital: http://www.sxykmgy.com/linbashuizhong/ or consult the experts for free. The experts will provide detailed answers based on the patient's specific situation.
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