A review of the postoperative lymphatic leakage
Executive Summary Postoperative lymphatic leakage is a rare but significant iatrogenic complication resulting from the trauma of lymphatic channels during surgical procedures . This condition encompasses a variety of clinical manifestations, categorized primarily by the nature of the fluid (clear lymph vs. milky chyle) and the site of accumulation . While many instances are self-limiting and asymptomatic, severe cases can lead to profound nutritional deficiency, immunological dysfunction, and prolonged hospitalization. Diagnosis relies on biochemical analysis —specifically triglyceride levels—and imaging techniques such as lymphangiography and lymphoscintigraphy. Management follows a "step-up" approach , prioritizing conservative treatments such as medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) diets, total parenteral nutrition (TPN), and somatostatin analogues . Surgical intervention , including ligation or the application of fibrin glue , is reserved for refractory cases or high-volu...