Changes in the microcirculation at the superficial and deeper levels in lymphoedema: the effects and results of massage, compression, exercise and benzopyrones on these levels during treatment.

This review starts with a brief description of the pioneering work done by J.R. Casley-Smith when he looked at the pathophysiological changes that occur, and transport from the blood vessels, through the interstitium to the lymphatics and lymphatic uptake, with the electron microscope. Collaboration with, and further work by many colleagues producing a better understanding of lymphatic drainage, have led to this work being applied in the treatment of lymphoedema.