Her Fight is Our Mission

Lymph Node Transfer (LNT) is an advanced microsurgical procedure designed to restore lymphatic function in individuals suffering from chronic lymphedema, particularly following breast cancer surgery or radiation therapy. When conservative treatments such as compression therapy or manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) prove insufficient, LNT offers a reconstructive solution that targets the root cause of lymphatic dysfunction.

Lymphedema occurs after cancer surgery when there is disruption or damage to the lymphatic system, which normally helps drain lymph fluid from tissues. It’s a common complication after surgeries involving lymph node removal or radiation therapy, especially in breast, gynaecological, or pelvic cancers.   

At Apollo Athenaa Women’s Cancer Centre, LNT is performed by a specialised team of plastic and reconstructive surgeons using state-of-the-art surgical techniques to deliver long-term relief and improved quality of life.

LNT is best suited for:

• Patients with chronic lymphedema, particularly those who have had limited success with non-surgical therapies
• Individuals in good general health

How the Procedure is Performed

• Preoperative Planning: Advanced imaging techniques are used to select appropriate donor sites and map out the surgical approach.
• Microsurgical Transplantation: Lymph nodes, along with their vascular supply, are harvested and transplanted to the affected limb. Precise anastomosis or connections between nodes and vessels  ensure that the nodes receive adequate blood flow.
• Recovery and Rehabilitation: Recovery typically spans 4–6 weeks, during which patients are monitored closely. Swelling reduction is gradual, and post-operative care includes physiotherapy and compression support to optimise lymphatic function.

Key Advantages

• Sustainable Relief through Functional Restoration: Unlike symptom-management therapies, LNT seeks to re-establish lymphatic pathways by transferring healthy lymph nodes to the affected area, thereby restoring natural drainage over time.
• Precise Microsurgical Technique: The procedure involves harvesting healthy lymph nodes from donor sites such as the groin or abdomen. These are carefully transplanted to the lymphedematous limb, where the vessels are reconnected under high magnification to ensure viability and function.
• Gradual Improvement: As the transplanted nodes integrate and begin functioning, patients often experience progressive reduction in limb swelling, discomfort, and risk of recurrent infections.

At Apollo Athenaa, our approach to LNT is patient-centred and precision-driven, combining surgical expertise with long-term rehabilitation to deliver lasting results. We are committed to helping you not only manage but overcome the burden of lymphedema.