ABSTRACT
In the previous chapter we have discussed the clinical features and diagnosis of arm and
leg lymphedema. In this chapter we will discuss the medical and surgical treatment of
this condition.
AIM OF TREATMENT
Lymphedema is a chronic disease with no cure. Therefore the main aim of treating patients
with lymphedema is to prevent the progression of disease and to get symptomatic control.
This is achieved by a combination of mechanical reduction and maintenance of limb size
and preventing skin infection. Treatment will thus depend upon the symptoms and the
severity of the condition. The mainstay of treating lymphedema is by conservative means
with surgery reserved for a small proportion of patients (1).
