Greenslopes Private Hospital has become the first private hospital in Queensland to offer advanced microsurgery for lymphoedema, marking a significant step forward in the management and prevention of the condition.
Read: Greenslopes Private Hospital Pioneers Lymphoedema Surgery in Queensland
Specialist plastic surgeons Dr Matthew Cheng and Dr Andrew Lewandowski recently completed Queensland’s first private hospital-based lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA), a complex supermicrosurgical procedure that connects tiny lymphatic vessels directly to veins. The surgery was performed on a patient with aggressive skin cancer to help prevent the onset of lymphoedema following lymph node removal.
“With LVA, we’re offering patients a surgical solution that can ease symptoms or even prevent lymphoedema altogether,” said Dr Cheng. “Historically, people with lymphoedema have had very limited options, often relying on compression, massage or simply learning to live with the condition.”
Dr Lewandowski said the procedure helps address a long-standing gap in post-cancer care. “While we excel at treating cancers and saving lives, we have fallen short on managing the long-term consequences of invasive surgery,” he said. “Lymphoedema can impact a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks and put them at greater risk of skin infections such as cellulitis. Being able to prevent or treat this condition is a huge step forward.”
Understanding lymphoedema
Lymphoedema is the accumulation of excessive fluid that leads to swelling in certain parts of the body, most commonly the arms and legs, but it can affect other areas too. It often occurs after cancer treatments involving lymph node removal, and affects an estimated 70,000 Australians. The condition can cause chronic pain, swelling, recurrent infections, and significantly reduce quality of life.
At Greenslopes Private Hospital, patients now have access not only to surgical options like LVA but also to non-surgical therapies through Ramsay Health Plus. These include Level 1 and 2 accredited lymphoedema therapists offering Manual Lymphatic Drainage, prescription and review of specialised compression garments (both off-the-shelf and custom made), and compression bandaging.
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This comprehensive approach positions Greenslopes Private as a leader in lymphoedema care, giving patients a better chance at living comfortably post-treatment.
Published 5-August-2025
