Abstract

OBREGON-PALAIN, Laia; RUIZ-CASTILLA, Mireia; PEREZ-SEMPERE, María  and  SERRACANTA-DOMENECH, Jordi. Charles procedure in lower limb elephantiasis: a case report. Cir. plást. iberolatinoam. [online]. 2016, vol.42, n.4, pp.379-384. ISSN 1989-2055.

The first therapeutic option of lymphedema consists on a series of conservative measures known as complex descongestive therapy. Many patients benefit from this program. However, refractory severe cases require surgical management. Many techniques are available with different rates of recurrence. The Charles procedure is an appropriate alternative for severe cases. We present our experience with a 21 years old man with left lower limb massive elephantiasis secondary to congenital lymphedema refractory to conservative treatment. After clinical and radiological assessment, ablative surgery was proposed according to the Charles procedure, performed on 3 surgical times over 8 months, with favorable outcomes. By the way, we review the accepted practice to treat lymphedema in lower limb and the available therapeutic options.

Keywords : Lymphedema; Elephantiasis; Lower limb; Charles procedure.

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