Restoration of lymph flow by flap transfer can prevent severe lower extremity lymphedema after inguino-pelvic lymphadenectomy

Purpose Severe lymphedema is difficult to treat because of the associated extensive scar formation. Therefore, preventing scar formation might alleviate the severity of lymphedema following lymphadenectomy. In this study, we evaluated the usefulness of flap transfer, performed immediately after lymphadenectomy, for preventing scar formation. Methods Twenty-three patients with subcutaneous malignancy in a lower extremity, who underwent inguino-pelvic lymphadenectomy, were divided into groups based on whether flap transfer was performed. The severity of lymphedema was categorized according to the ratio of the circumference of the affected extremity to that of the unaffected extremity, as mild (< 20% increase in volume), moderate (20–40%), or severe (> 40%). Results In the 18 patients who underwent lymphadenectomy without flap transfer, lymphedema was classified as mild in 7, moderate in 7, and severe in 4. In the five patients who underwent lymphadenectomy with flap transfer, lymphedema was classified as mild in 4 and moderate in 1. This difference between the groups did not reach significance. Conclusions The findings of this study suggest that flap transfer may help prevent scar formation and contribute to the restoration of lymph flow after lymphadenectomy.