Lymphoscintigraphy for the assessment of autologous stem cell implantation in chronic lymphedema.

Lymphoscintigraphy is the criterion standard technique for the diagnosis of lymphedema. The authors present the images acquired before and 6 months after implantation of autologous stem cells in 2 patients with chronic lymphedema of the lower limbs. The stem cells implantations were carried out by multiple superficial and deep injections in the trajectory of the lymphatic vessels and also in the inguinal region. A volume of 0.75 to 1.00 mL of cell suspension (1.0-2.2 × 10(9) stem cells) was administered in each injection site. The anatomy and function of the lymphatic system were evaluated.