Lymph Flow Restoration after Tissue Replantation and Transfer: Importance of Lymph Axiality and Possibility of Lymph Flow Reconstruction without Lymph Node Transfer or Lymphatic Anastomosis

Background: The lymph system plays important roles in maintaining fluid balances, the immune system, and lipid metabolism. After tissue replantation or transfer, some cases suffer long-lasting edema or lymphedema caused by interruption of main lymph flows; however, this mechanism has yet to be clarified. Methods: The medical charts of 38 patients who underwent indocyanine green lymphography after tissue replantation or free flap transfer were...