[Lymphoscintigraphy. A predictive test of post-traumatic lymphedema of the lower limbs]

Post-traumatic oedema after fractures of the tibia results from several causes which are often associated together. In addition to venous thrombosis, the lymphatic origin of oedema is not inconsiderable. Lymphatic scintigraphy was performed in 32 patients with tibial fractures, either open or closed. All were fixed internally. All had preventive treatment of venous thrombosis by calciparin. The intact leg was also investigated by scintigraphy which was done two to ten days after the trauma. The possible anomalies of scintigraphy are described and discussed. The patients were divided into two groups. Group one developed oedema at three months and group two did not. The anomalies of scintigraphy were significantly higher in group one. It is concluded that early scintigraphy is a safe test for the prediction of residual oedema after tibial fractures. The possible early prevention of oedema of a lymphatic origin is discussed.