Lymphedema surgery eases symptoms of this common cancer treatment side effect

Lymphedema is a common cancer treatment side effect that can lead to swelling, pain and sometimes infections. Lymphedema can be treated through noninvasive methods like massage, compression garments and physical therapy.
But if lymphedema symptoms do not improve a patient may need surgery. One type of surgery is called a lymphovenous bypass. In this minimally-invasive procedure, a plastic surgeon improves the flow of lymphatic fluid be redirecting it. Another type of surgery is the vascularized lymph node transfer. In this procedure, plastic surgeons take lymph nodes from one part of the body and move them to impacted area to reduce lymphedema symptoms.
Read more on lymphedema: www.mdanderson...
Request an appointment at MD Anderson by calling 1-877-632-6789 or online: my.mdanderson.org/requestappointment

[@sonias9722]

I hate when lymphedema is called side effect. It's a debilitating illness which often could have been avoided.

[@mdanderson]

Sonia, thank you for this feedback. We are sorry if you've had to suffer with lymphedema. You can learn more about treatment options that may bring you relief here: www.mdanderson.org/patients-family/diagnosis-treatment/emotional-physical-effects/lymphedema.html.

[@Vinaywrites]

My mother is facing this stage please help us we can't afford this treatment

[@mdanderson]

We're so sorry to hear of your mother's diagnosis. To request an appointment at MD Anderson, please call 1-877-632-6789 or online: My.MDAnderson.org/RequestAppointment. Your family is in our thoughts.

[@sharonauflick9628]

Does Medicare pay for lymphovenous bypass surgery? I had a radical hysterectomy and radical lymphedenectomy due to having cervical invasive cancer. I've had lymphedema for 22 years and had debulking surgery in 2014. Lymphedema was only in my left leg until a couple of years ago. It is now in both legs.

[@mdanderson]

Sharon, we're so sorry to hear this. We encourage you to talk to your insurance provider to address your concerns. Best wishes to you.

[@hebama7rose17]

Is it also effective for primary lymphedema?

[@zerlanternjong8585]

I like to surgery