Nylon Suture Loop for Tagging Lymphatic Channels during Lymphaticovenular Anastomosis

Abstract

Background Lymphaticovenular anastomosis (LVA) requires special supermicrosurgery techniques designed for vessels less than 0.8 mm in size. While preparing the field for LVA, it is often difficult to handle the lymphatic vessel directly without injuring it or fracturing it entirely. Method We propose a novel technique, which is used in LVA for tagging of lymphatic vessels, with the use of a nylon 6–0 suture and micro-ligaclip. Results We have successfully performed 78 LVAs in 26 cases with this method. The average lymphatic vessel size was 0.3 mm (0.15–0.8 mm). Conclusion This novel technique to implement the use of a nylon suture with a micro-ligaclip to use as a vessel loop for lymphatics has not been previously described in the literature. It is a useful technique that we find beneficial to lymphatic identification through tagging of the lymphatic channels, contributing to greater success in each anastomosis.