LVA (Lymphovenous Anastomosis) is a microsurgical procedure that connects functioning lymphatic vessels to small nearby veins, creating another pathway for lymph fluid to drain.

Before deciding on LVA, consider asking your surgeon these questions.

Is LVA Right for Me?

☐ Am I a good candidate for LVA and why?

☐ Do I have enough functioning lymphatic vessels for the procedure?

☐ What imaging or tests will you use to assess my lymphatic system?

☐ How do the stage and length of time I have had lymphedema affect my expected results?

☐ Are there other surgical or non-surgical treatments I should consider?

What Results Can I Expect?

☐ What improvement can I realistically expect in my swelling?

☐ Could LVA reduce my risk of cellulitis?

☐ Could it reduce my need for compression garments?

☐ How long might it take before I notice improvement?

☐ How will we measure whether the surgery has been successful?

About the Surgery

☐ How many LVA procedures for lymphedema have you performed?

☐ How many lymphatic-to-vein connections do you expect to make?

☐ What type of anesthetic will I need, and will I stay in hospital?

☐ What are the main risks and possible complications?

☐ What happens if the new connections do not work or later close?

Recovery & Lymphedema Care

☐ How long is the usual recovery?

☐ When can I return to work, exercise, swimming, driving and travel?

☐ When should I restart wearing my compression garments?

☐ Will I still need compression long term?

☐ When can I restart Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)?

☐ Should I work with a Certified Lymphedema Therapist before and after surgery?

Follow-Up

☐ How often will I have follow-up appointments?

☐ Will lymphatic imaging be repeated after surgery?

☐ Who will manage my ongoing lymphedema care?

☐ What symptoms after surgery should prompt me to contact you?

Ask About Costs

Ask what is covered and what you may need to pay for yourself, including surgery, imaging, hospital costs, travel, lymphedema therapy and compression garments.

MOST IMPORTANT QUESTION

“What is the main outcome you expect LVA to improve for me, and how will we know if it has worked?”

LVA may improve lymphatic drainage in appropriately selected patients, but results vary. Some people will continue to need compression and ongoing lymphedema management after surgery.