Definition

Surgery done to help relieve symptoms of lymphedema (swelling caused by a buildup of lymph in the tissues). Lymphedema can occur when lymph nodes or vessels become damaged or blocked. During a VLNT, healthy tissue containing lymph nodes and vessels is taken from one part of the body, such as the neck, abdomen, or groin, and moved to the area with the damaged lymph nodes, usually in a person’s arm or leg. This may cause the lymph nodes and vessels in the healthy tissue to grow and help improve the flow of lymph in that area. Also called lymphovenous transplant and vascularized lymph node transfer.