Hilar Vessels of the Submandibular and Upper Jugular Neck Lymph Nodes Anatomical Study for Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer to Extremity Lymphedema

摘要

Objectives: Vascularized lymph node transfer for lymphedema is an emerging method of treatment. Vascularized lymph nodes have been harvested from a number of donor sites, that is, groin, axilla, and neck. There is a concern that harvesting nodes from the groin and axilla may lead to donor site lymphedema. This risk is greatly reduced in harvesting from the neck due to the abundant supply of lymph nodes here. In this cadaver study, we describe the submandibular and upper jugular groups of lymph nodes, demonstrate their hilar vessels, their source pedicles and drainage veins, quantified and qualified these groups of lymph nodes and their relationship to surrounding structures.