Lymphedema Treatment
Lymphedema treatment Ankara is aimed at permanently curing lymphedema through microsurgery and/or eliminating aesthetic and functional problems caused by lymphedema. The lymphatic system is extremely important for the immune and circulatory systems. It consists of hundreds of lymph vessels and dozens of lymph nodes. These vessels contain a colorless fluid, resembling blood plasma, which hosts white blood cells. Known as lymph fluid, this substance can begin to leak out of the lymph vessels due to various factors. Lymphedema, often resulting from the damage, rupture, or blockage of lymph vessels or nodes, causes lymph fluid accumulation in areas like the arms and legs, leading to swelling. Over time, this swelling can significantly increase. Lymphedema treatment aims to eliminate these swellings and alleviate the symptoms related to lymphedema. In the rest of our article, we will answer questions like “How is lymphedema treated?”, “How is lymphedema treated with microsurgery?”, “How long does microsurgery for lymphedema take?” and “What are the symptoms of lymphedema?”. For detailed information about lymphedema treatment and microsurgery for lymphedema in Ankara, continue reading our article.
What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a disease that develops due to blockages affecting lymph circulation, or damage to lymph vessels or nodes. This condition prevents ideal lymph circulation in the affected area, causing lymph fluid to leak outside the lymphatic system. This leakage eventually leads to edema. Lymphedema, also known as elephantiasis, is chronic and progressive. In advanced stages, it can cause significant aesthetic and functional issues in affected areas.
What Causes Lymphedema?
Lymphedema arises from the leakage of lymph fluid due to damage to lymph vessels. This fluid cannot be drained from the area and leads to the condition. Factors that can cause lymphedema include:
- Surgical interventions that may damage lymph vessels.
- Physical traumas harming lymph vessels and nodes.
- Tumor formations.
- Radiotherapy applications.
- Genetic factors.
These are some of the causes of lymphedema.
What are the Symptoms of Lymphedema?
Symptoms of lymphedema include:
- Edema and swelling in the affected body parts.
- Pain in the affected area.
- Thickening of the skin tissue.
- Swelling and pain in areas like the armpits and groin.
- Decreased range of motion in joints near the swollen area.
- Hardening in the areas where edema occurs.
- The symptoms and severity of lymphedema can vary depending on the stage and location of the condition.
Who is Affected by Lymphedema?
Lymphedema can occur in individuals of any age and gender. It can develop in infancy as Milroy’s disease and in early adulthood or adulthood as Meige’s disease. Lymphedema can also occur as a secondary problem in individuals undergoing cancer or radiation therapy, especially with a higher risk following radiotherapy for breast cancer.
Is Lymphedema Dangerous?
In its early stages, lymphedema is not expected to threaten life. However, in advanced stages, untreated wounds and skin infections can lead to sepsis (septic shock, blood poisoning), a highly dangerous condition. Therefore, lymphedema should not be neglected.
Is There a Treatment for Lymphedema?
Lymphedema can be treated both surgically and medically. Medical treatments generally aim to reduce and manage symptoms. Surgical treatments aim to drain lymph fluid and prevent new fluid accumulation.
How Long Does Lymphedema Treatment Take?
Surgical treatment of lymphedema generally lasts between 3 to 6 hours. However, the duration can vary depending on the specifics of the operation.
How is Lymphedema Treated?
Surgical treatment of lymphedema is performed painlessly under general anesthesia. First, the affected area is cleaned with a special antiseptic solution. Then, small surgical incisions are made in the operation area. Through these incisions, the lymph vessels responsible for circulation are identified. These vessels are repaired using microsurgical techniques such as bypass. The incisions are then closed, and the operation is completed. In advanced disease, the transfer of healthy lymph nodes to the diseased area can also be performed using microsurgery.
Ankara Lymphedema Treatment Prices 2024
Prices for lymphedema treatment in Ankara may vary from person to person depending on the details of the treatment. Please contact us for detailed information.
