[Experimental evidence for motoric rehabilitation in lymphoedema (author's transl)].

The authors distinguish three modalities of lymphtransport in lymphoedema. 1. Enhanced evacuation by existing lymphatics. 2. Enhanced evacuation by regenerated lymphatics. 3. Enhanced evacuation by lympho-lymphatic anastomoses. Experiments with 500 white mice indicate that the resorption of lymphoedema is increased by guided compression, although some manipulations must be performed with care, especially when regenerated lymphatics are present. The lymphatic flow in a limb is also enhanced by a special drainage technique at the proximal part of it. Likewise the lymph can be manipulated into the opposite limb by anastomotic channels after unilateral lymphadenectomy.