Lymphoedema - Clinical Scenario

A 48-year-old female presents with a 3-month history of progressive swelling in her left arm. She underwent a left mastectomy and axillary lymph node dissection for breast cancer 6 months prior. Initially, the swelling improved with elevation but has since worsened, leading to significant discomfort and impaired daily functioning. The patient also reports a sensation of heaviness and tightness in the affected arm.

Objectives:

1. Provide a comprehensive clinical assessment of lymphoedema.
2. Grade the severity of lymphoedema.
3. Evaluate surgical options for lymphoedema management.
4. Discuss post-operative complication management.
5. Outline the fundamental principles of Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT).

Primary Contributor: Dr Kurt Lee Chircop, Educational Fellow.
Reviewer: Dr Waruguru Wanjau, Educational Fellow.