Lymphovenous anastamosis during axillary or inguinal node dissection for preventing lymphoedema

In April 2024, NICE produced Interventional procedures guidance for lymphovenous anastomosis during axillary or inguinal node dissection for preventing secondary lymphoedema. Evidence from clinical trials and observational studies suggests that the procedure reduces the risk of lymphoedema after axillary node dissection in people with breast cancer. It also suggests that there are no major safety concerns. However, there are some limitations in the evidence, including a lack of quality-of-life data and long-term follow up. Therefore, NICE recommends that lymphovenous anastomosis during axillary dissection can be used in the NHS with the caveat that can only be performed with special arrangements for clinical governance, consent, and audit/ research. 

Classifications: Breast & Oncoplastic Surgery

Keywords: Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy/ SLNB Axilla Lymphoedema