A remote consultation is a valuable resource when you face complex medical issues or difficult treatment decision. Our remote consultation program offers patients access to leading specialists at Asan Medical Center.
We are proud to be the first institution in the Republic of Korea certified as a Comprehensive Center of Excellence (COE) for Lymphatic Disease by the Lymphatic Education & Research Network (LE&RN).
What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a chronic condition caused by lymphatic system dysfunction, leading to fluid buildup and swelling, especially in the limbs. While incurable, early diagnosis and consistent management are crucial to controlling symptoms and preventing complications.
Integrated Care
Combining surgical and conservative therapies based on precise imaging diagnostics to reduce symptoms and prevent disease progression.
Lifelong Support
Proactive care plans to enhance quality of life and manage the condition over time.
Our Expertise in Treating Lymphatic Diseases
At AMC, we enhance treatment outcomes for lymphatic diseases through a multidisciplinary approach and integrated care. By leveraging the expertise and insights of specialists from various departments, we provide comprehensive treatment for both primary and secondary lymphedema, including advanced-stage cases, lymphedema caused by cancer treatments, and other complex conditions requiring specialized approaches.
- Cancer-related and non-cancer-related lymphedema
- Lipedema, filariasis, Gorham’s disease, and lymphangiomatosis
- Venous edema, podoconiosis, and congenital vascular anomalies
Advanced Imaging Capabilities
Accurate diagnosis and precise treatment planning are essential for managing lymphatic diseases. At the Lymphedema Specialized Center, we utilize a wide range of cutting-edge imaging technologies to ensure comprehensive patient care.
Our Imaging Expertise
- Cisterna chyli visualization: Identifying and monitoring the cisterna chyli for better management of systemic lymphatic issues
- High-resolution lymphatic ultrasound: Detailed imaging for non-invasive assessment
- Lymphography (Direct contrast): Providing clear visualization of lymphatic pathways
- Near-infrared fluorescence lymphangiography: Dynamic imaging to track lymphatic flow in real-time
- MR lymphography: Advanced imaging for high-detail assessment of lymphatic structures
- MRI imaging: Comprehensive scans for assessing soft tissue and underlying abnormalities
- Radionuclide lymphoscintigraphy: Nuclear imaging to trace lymphatic drainage patterns
- Thoracic duct visualization: Identifying blockages and flow patterns in the thoracic duct
- Venous duplex ultrasonography: Assessing venous involvement in lymphedema and vascular conditions
Genetic Services for Lymphatic Diseases
At the Lymphedema Specialized Center, we recognize the importance of genetics in diagnosing and managing complex lymphatic disorders. Our advanced genetic services offer patients and their families personalized care and insights to guide treatment and long-term management.
Our Genetic Capabilities
Genetic Counseling for Patients and Families:
- Support for families to understand genetic risks and inheritance patterns
- Personalized guidance for future family planning
Screening for Known Genes and Mutations:
Detection of genetic mutations linked to primary lymphedema and related disorders
Advanced Sequencing Technologies:
- Whole Exome and Whole Genome Sequencing: Applied for diagnosing primary lymphedema
- Customized Panel Sequencing (X1000): Detects somatic mosaic variants associated with lateralized overgrowth syndrome
Comprehensive Conservative Treatments for Lymphedema and Lymphatic Diseases
At Asan Medical Center, conservative treatments are the cornerstone of our approach to managing lymphedema and other lymphatic conditions. Our dedicated rehabilitation team combines extensive clinical experience, advanced assessment methods, and the latest research to deliver precise diagnoses and tailored care plans to meet each patient’s unique needs.
Components of Conservative Treatment
Accurate Diagnosis:
Utilizing state-of-the-art imaging technologies and assessment techniques to guide tailored interventions for optimal outcomes.
Rehabilitation Therapies:
Our highly trained and certified lymphedema therapists are integral to delivering conservative care. With advanced expertise and years of experience, they provide:
- Hands-on treatment tailored to patient needs.
- Education and support to empower patients in managing their condition over the long term.
Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Teams
The conservative treatment approach is seamlessly integrated with other specialties, including radiology, genetics, and surgery. This multidisciplinary collaboration ensures comprehensive and cohesive care tailored to each patient, providing a holistic solution for managing lymphedema and related conditions.
Advanced Surgical Treatments for Lymphedema and Lymphatic Diseases
Our Lymphedema Specialized Center offers cutting-edge surgical procedures to effectively manage complex lymphatic conditions. We combine innovative surgical techniques with personalized care to achieve the best outcomes for our patients.
Surgical Capabilities
Debulking Surgeries
- Liposuction: Removes excess fat to reduce swelling and improve mobility
- Traditional Reducing Operations: Includes procedures such as Homan's, Charles, and Thompson operations to remove tissue buildup
Reconstructive Surgeries
- Lymphovenous Bypass (LVA): Connects lymphatic vessels to veins, improving lymphatic drainage
- Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT): Transfers healthy lymph nodes to affected areas to restore drainage
Specialized Surgical Interventions
- Lymph Node to Vein Anastomosis: Bypasses blockages to restore fluid flow
- Chylothorax Intervention: Surgical management of lymphatic leaks in the thoracic cavity
Why Choose Us?
Multidisciplinary Approach:
Collaboration across Rehabilitation Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Radiology, Genetics, and more
Cutting-Edge Techniques:
Early detection, precise diagnosis, and advanced surgical options ensure the highest standard of care.
International Expertise:
- English-speaking staff and services tailored for foreign patients
- Access to over 40 medical departments for comprehensive care
Global Recognition and Education:
- Host of the Asan Lymphedema Workshop for sharing surgical techniques
- Participation in international research and clinical trials
Ongoing research and experimental advancements to stay at the forefront of medical innovation
Advanced fellowship programs to train future leaders in lymphedema care
At Asan Medical Center, we continually enhance our treatment, research, and education to achieve even better patient outcomes and further our mission to advance the field of lymphedema management worldwide.
