Lymphoedema

What is lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema is a chronic (long-term) condition that causes swelling due to a buildup of fluid and other substances. While it can affect any part of your body, it's most common in the arms and legs.

Alongside experiencing swelling and discomfort, the condition also increases your risk of developing serious infections.

Symptoms of lymphoedema

Lymphoedema affects your lymphatic system, which is responsible for moving excess fluid from your body tissues back into your bloodstream. When this process doesn't work as it should, fluids and other substances can build up, resulting in lymphoedema. Symptoms that can signal lymphoedema include:

• swelling in all or part of a limb or another part of your body
• an aching, heavy feeling and difficulty with movement
• regular skin infections
• hard, tight or thickened skin

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to make an appointment with your GP. Getting a diagnosis and beginning treatment as soon as possible can help prevent lymphoedema from worsening and developing complications.

Causes of lymphoedema

There are several reasons why you might develop lymphoedema, depending on the type you have:

Primary lymphoedema: This affects the development of your lymphatic system due to a genetic defect.

Secondary lymphoedema: This is more common and is when your lymphatic system has become damaged.

This can be due to various reasons, including:

• receiving treatment for cancer, such as surgery or radiation therapy
• having a condition that affects your heart, kidneys or blood vessels
• developing an infection that affects the lymphatic system

Diagnosis of lymphoedema

If you are showing signs of lymphoedema, your GP will refer you to a lymphoedema specialist. The specialist will be able to confirm the diagnosis based on your symptoms and medical history. They may also examine and measure any affected areas and compare them with other parts of your body.

Sometimes, you may need more tests. Your doctor will advise what tests may be necessary and why.

Typical treatments for lymphoedema

Lymphoedema treatment involves a combination of keeping active, practising regular skin care, using compression garments and having a special type of massage known as lymphatic drainage massage.

You may also be able to better manage your condition using our evidence-based microsurgeries for lymphoedema.

About the service:

We offer two microsurgical techniques for people with lymphoedema that can help reduce or even eliminate the need for compression garments and improve your quality of life.

Both procedures are available at our specialist facility at Charing Cross Hospital in London.

1. Lymphovenous anastomosis (lymph-fluid shunting): This involves rerouting the affected part of your lymphatic system and connecting lymphatic channels directly to nearby veins. This procedure takes place under local anaesthetic and there is a quick recovery time without the need for an overnight stay.

2. Lymph node transfer: This involves replacing the affected lymph nodes with healthy ones from another part of your body. This procedure takes place under general anaesthetic, followed by two to four days recovery in hospital.

Why choose us for your lymphoedema care?

Our specialised microsurgical techniques for lymphoedema are available at Charing Cross Hospital in London, where we provide consultant-led care supported by dedicated and experienced teams.

Expert approach: Our multidisciplinary team comprises a group of medical professionals specialising in different areas of expertise. We work together to provide your care, sharing best practices and innovative methods.

Innovative care: As one of the few facilities in the UK offering private lymphatic surgery, we provide a consistent and streamlined experience throughout your care journey.