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Specialties of Excellence

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We are the first Comprehensive Center of Excellence (COE) of lymphatic disease in the Republic of Korea, certified by the Lymphatic Education & Research Network (LE&RN). Our center provides systematic diagnosis and treatment for lymphatic diseases, combining advanced medical techniques with patient-centered care to improve quality of life.

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

AMC Colorectal Cancer Center improves the treatment outcomes through a multidisciplinary system and integrated treatment to provide best treatment by embracing various opinions of specialists from relevant departments on liver metastasis that often occurs in colorectal cancers, lung metastasis, and locally recurrent cancers such as intractable colorectal cancer.

Annual Patient Data:

- Lymphedema: 800-900 patients
- Lipedema: 50-60 patients
- Vascular anomalies: 203 patients
- Other lymphatic diseases: 100+

Conditions Treated:

- 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

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

Certified Lymphedema Therapists

Our team includes highly experienced and certified lymphedema therapists, ensuring that each patient receives the highest quality care. With advanced certifications and years of expertise, our therapists provide both hands-on treatment and education to support global healthcare professionals

Our Team’s Strengths

Four or More Certified Lymphedema Therapists:

- Diverse expertise in MLD, compression therapy, and exercise-based rehabilitation
Collaboration with our surgical team and specialists for integrated care

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.