Surgical pathophysiology of the lymphatic system.

The cannulation of lymph vessels by means of polyethylene Clay-Adams P 60 tube were through out in legs of 25 normal men. The lymph quantity, the contents of immunoglobulin and complement as well as cells and the pressure were measured. Rhythmic contractions of lymph vessels may be a major determinant of lymph flow. The pressure ranged between 20 and 50 mmHg. Leg lymph flow and protein concentration undergo major 24 hr variation dependent on the position of the body and the type of activity. At night lymph flow while in the rest is low. A continuous decrease in lymph protein concentration observed while in the upright position may be explained by the wash-out of proteins accumulated during periods in the horizontal position. The immune defence in the interstitial fluid and lymph of normal tissues seems to be weaker than in blood. Antibodies have definite biological properties. The contents of leucocyte and erythrocyte in human leg lymph is discussed.