Article Type: Case Study
Title: Lower Limb Lymphedema Successfully Treated with Flap Monitoring – A Case Report
Year: 2022; Volume: 2; Issue: 4; Page No: 12 – 15
Authors: Karthikayini Krishnasamy1, Haleematus Saadiah Abdullah1, Karuthan Chinna2*
Affiliations: 1Department of Nursing, University of Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
2Faculty of Business and Management, UCSI University, Selangor, Malaysia.
Article Summary: Submitted: 15-October-2022; Revised: 20-November-2022; Accepted: 20-December-2022; Published: 31-December-2022
Abstract:
Background: Lymphedema is a chronic, progressive pathologic condition of the lymphatic system with interstitial accumulation of protein-rich fluid and inflammation, adipose tissue hypertrophy and fibrosis. Protein-rich lymph initiates inflammatory response and increase susceptibility to infections, which can lead to disfigurement or dermal changes.
Case Report: A 42-year-old lady was referred to a tertiary care hospital for chronic lymphedema of the left lower limb. She has been having this ailment for the past 20 years, she has a history of traumatic injury of left ankle and the swelling gradually increase in size over the years and developed pulmonary embolism a few years ago. Flap monitoring was done on this patient frequently. During the stay, vacuum assisted closure (VAC) dressing was applied after free muscle coverage of the lower extremity.
The patient was given health education on skin care to improve hydration and lower the risk of infection by applying moisturizing emollient to soothe and support the skin.
Keywords: Lymphedema, flap care, vacuum assisted closure
Source of funding: This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies.
Conflict of Interest: The Authors reports no conflict of interest.
Corresponding Author:
Dr. Karuthan Chinna
Professor,
Faculty of Business and Management,
UCSI University,
Malaysia.
Email ID: karuthan@ucsiuniversity.edu.my
Cell No: +60 12 3758255
