University Of Iowa Surgeon Wei Chen Presents Lymphedema Education Event At Genesis Medical Center
DAVENPORT, Iowa – July 11, 2017 – Plastic surgeon Wei Chen, M.D., one of only a few surgeons in the country performing microsurgery to repair difficult cases of lymphedema, will present an education event at Genesis on Thursday, July 27.
Dr. Chen, who practices at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, will discuss surgical options to correct lymphedema starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Adler Health Education Center in the lower level of the Genesis Heart Institute at 1236 East Rusholme Street, Davenport. The public is invited to this free event.
Lymphedema is a condition experienced by nearly half of all patients following breast surgery. The condition is caused by obstruction of the lymphatic system, which causes buildup of fluid and often painful swelling.
Lymphedema can be acquired or congenital. Acquired lymphedema occurs as a result of traumatic injury or surgery. Swelling can be present in any limb, making the limb oversized, heavy, inflexible and painful.
“Lymphedema is quite common for breast cancer patients who have had surgery. It can be difficult to treat,’’ explained Chris Beuthin, physical therapist and certified lymphedema specialist at Genesis Physical Therapy, Valley Fair, Davenport. “Non-surgical treatments include manual lymph drainage, compression bandaging, skin care and exercises to enhance lymphatic pumping.
“Quite often, lymphedema can be treated successfully with these methods but if not, the next step is surgical treatment. Dr. Chen is a national expert in microsurgical treatments for lymphedema.’’
Dr. Chen provides Lymphaticovenular Anatomosis (LVA) and Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT) super-microsurgical procedures at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.
LVA is a minimally-invasive procedure that connects the lymphatic channels to nearby veins. The patient may be able to go home the same day as the procedure.
VLNT transfers healthy, functioning lymph nodes from other parts of the body to the affected limb to treat the lymphedema.
For more information about lymphedema and about the upcoming event, go to www.genesishealth.com/lymphedema.
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