The May Research Roundtable featured internationally recognized microsurgeon Dr. Antonio Forte, whose work at Mayo Clinic is advancing lymphedema treatment through surgical innovation and emerging technologies. Patients from across the U.S. and around the world seek his expertise, particularly for lymphovenous bypass (LVB), a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that is redefining what’s possible for those living with lymphatic disorders.
Dr. Forte shared his path into microsurgery, beginning with his training at the renowned Buncke Clinic, where he developed the precision required to operate on vessels smaller than a millimeter. He went on to establish a specialized lymphedema practice at Mayo Clinic Florida in 2016, helping address a longstanding gap in care for patients who were often told few treatment options existed.
At the center of the discussion was LVB, a procedure that reroutes blocked lymphatic fluid into nearby veins, essentially creating a “detour” around damaged pathways. This approach is especially impactful for patients whose lymphatic systems have been affected by cancer treatments such as surgery or radiation. By restoring drainage, LVB can reduce swelling, improve tissue quality, and in some cases partially reverse physiological changes caused by chronic lymphedema. While not a cure, Dr. Forte emphasized its meaningful impact on quality of life and long-term disease management.
LVB is commonly used for both upper and lower extremity lymphedema, including cancer-related and primary forms. Advanced imaging techniques, such as lymphoscintigraphy and intraoperative ICG mapping, are essential for determining candidacy and guiding surgical precision. Dr. Forte noted that even when post-surgical limb volume changes are modest, patients often report significant improvements in comfort and function.
The conversation also explored innovation and the future of care. Dr. Forte is actively integrating artificial intelligence into his practice to improve efficiency, reduce administrative burden, and allow clinicians to spend more time with patients. While AI is currently used for tasks like transcription and information retrieval, he anticipates a growing role for predictive modeling and imaging analysis in diagnosis and treatment planning.
Additional topics included emerging therapies, such as the potential role of GLP-1 medications in reducing inflammation, and advances in imaging like MR lymphangiography. While some techniques remain limited by accessibility and technical complexity, there is a clear trajectory toward more precise, data-driven care.
A recurring theme throughout the roundtable was hope. Many patients arrive after years of being told “nothing can be done,” but advances like lymphovenous bypass are changing that narrative. As awareness grows and technologies evolve, treatment options—both surgical and non-surgical—are expanding, offering not just symptom relief but a renewed sense of possibility.
Lympha Press is proud to support conversations like these, bringing education and innovation to patients and clinicians alike through solutions designed as “therapy that’s easy to live with.” Learn more at www.lymphapress.com.
This Roundtable was originally recorded live on May 4, 2026. The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of Lympha Press. The content is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice.
Watch more Roundtables from our Lympha Press Research Roundtables playlist on YouTube.