A Review of Investigation Modalities of Lymphedema

Objective: Thanks to the increasing interests in lymphedema surgery, there has been an emergence of new investigation modalities. Apart from making the diagnosis, new investigations are tailored to assess the disease by measuring limb volume and fluid content. There are also studies to assess the lymphatic function and perform lymphatic mapping. This is a review on modern investigation modalities. Methods: A literature search was performed. Evidence of the following investigation modalities i.e. traditional lymphoscintigraphy, truncated cone formula, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, optoelectronic devices, bioimpedance analysis and indocyanine green lymphangiography will be reviewed. Results: Traditional lymphoscintigraphy remains an inexpensive, easily available investigation for the establishment of diagnosis. Limb volume calculation is more easily comprehended by patients than limb circumference measurement. ICG lymphangiography has become a valuable investigation for lymphatic bypass surgery mainly because of its handiness and accuracy in localizing subdermal lymphatic vessels. Conclusion: With the emergence of new investigation modalities of lymphedema, it is important for the health care providers to understand the application of each modalities for proper disease management.