Jurnal Plastik Rekonstruksi
Vol. 12 No. 2 (2025): Jurnal Plastik Rekonstruksi

Drain and Debulk: A Dual Approach to Advanced Lower Limb Lymphedema Using Simultaneous LVB and Lymph-Sparing Liposuction

Wicaksana, Aditya (Unknown)
Ramadan, Mohamad Rachadian (Unknown)
Atmodiwirjo, Parintosa (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
29 Sep 2025

Abstract

Background: Advanced-stage lymphedema is characterized by lymphatic dysfunction and fibroadipose overgrowth. Single-modality treatments, such as lymphaticovenous bypass (LVB) or liposuction alone, are often inadequate. This case series evaluates the safety and outcomes of simultaneous LVB and lymph-sparing liposuction in advanced lower-limb disease.Method: We conducted a case series involving four patients (n=4) with secondary lower limb lymphedema (ISL stage II–III; LDB stage IV–V). All underwent simultaneous LVB and lymph-sparing liposuction. Limb volume was calculated using the truncated cone formula at baseline, 1 week, and 12 months postoperatively. Quality of life was measured using the LYMPH-Q questionnaire. One patient with bilateral lymphedema received LVB on both limbs but underwent liposuction on only one, allowing for direct internal comparison.Results: In all four patients patients demonstrated immediate postoperative limb volume reductions ranging from 12.13% to 37.68%, with further improvements at 12 months (up to 42.1%). Quality of life scores significantly increased, with improvements of up to 37.29%. In the bilateral case, the limb treated with both LVB and liposuction showed superior outcomes compared to the limb treated with LVB alone. No major complications occurred.Conclusions: Simultaneous LVB and lymph-sparing liposuction is a safe and effective treatment for advanced lymphedema. This dual-modality approach addresses both fluid accumulation and fibrotic hypertrophy, resulting in better functional and aesthetic outcomes than either technique alone. Larger studies with longer follow-up are needed to confirm these findings and optimize patient selection.

Copyrights © 2025






Journal Info

Abbrev

jpr

Publisher

Subject

Civil Engineering, Building, Construction & Architecture Other

Description

Jurnal Plastik Rekonstruksi is an open access, peer reviewed, international journal focusing on global plastic and reconstructive surgery. JPR publishes on all areas of plastic and reconstructive surgery, including basic science/experimental studies pertinent to the field and also clinical articles ...