[Lymphographic and clinical studies following arterial reconstruction in the aortoiliac area and the extremities].

Lymphography was carried out in 41 patients after arterial reconstruction in the aorto-iliac territory or in the extremities: 13 of these patients had been examined pre-operatively. In addition to lymphography, the circumference of the limbs was measured. Lymphographic changes and oedema could be demonstrated in all patients, the extent depending on the type of surgical intervention. There was correlation between the extent of lymphatic damage and the oedema. The duration of post operative oedema depended on effective regeneration of the lymphatics; according to the severity of the surgical injury, regeneration was largely complete from 12 weeks to six months after surgery.