image: UZ Brussel achieves global milestone in robotic microsurgery for lymphedema
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Credit: UZ Brussel
UZ Brussel has become the first hospital in the world to surpass 100 robot-assisted lymphovenous bypass surgeries for patients with lymphedema. This cutting-edge microsurgical procedure offers a minimally invasive treatment option for individuals suffering from painful limb swelling—often a side effect of cancer treatments such as breast or prostate surgery.
The robotic technique, performed with the Symani® Surgical System, enables unmatched precision, resulting in reduced pain, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays. The 100th patient was discharged shortly after surgery and is recovering well.
Precision backed by experience
What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that all 100 procedures were performed by a single surgeon:
Prof. Dr. Alexandru Nistor, specialist in plastic and reconstructive microsurgery at UZ Brussel, now holds the distinction of being the most experienced robotic lymphedema microsurgeon in the world.
The combination of robotic accuracy and highly specialized surgical skill ensures consistent, reproducible outcomes. The procedure is effective across a wide range of patient groups—women after breast cancer, men after prostate cancer, and even those with primary lymphedema.
A lasting solution to a chronic condition
Traditional lymphedema management includes compression therapy and manual lymphatic drainage, but robotic lymphovenous bypass offers a long-term surgical solution. A single minimally invasive procedure can lead to visible and lasting improvement in symptoms and limb function.
Prof. Dr. Moustapha Hamdi, Head of the Department of Plastic Surgery: “The Symani microsurgical robot marks a turning point in the evolution of plastic surgery. With UZ Brussel now leading globally in robotic lymphatic procedures, we are proud to be writing surgical history.”
“We talk, we laugh, and the patient walks out smiling”
Lymphedema remains a highly underestimated condition that can severely impact quality of life. It arises when the lymphatic system is disrupted—often due to surgical removal of lymph nodes during cancer treatment—leading to persistent swelling, discomfort, and reduced mobility.
Prof. Dr. Alexandru Nistor, Coordinator of the Lymph Clinic: “Lymphedema is still too often a taboo subject. Cancer survivors are told to be grateful they’re alive and learn to live with the swollen limb for the rest of their lives. But for many, it’s worse than the cancer they survived, because it stays with them and reminds them daily about their ordeal. Thanks to robotic microsurgery, we can now intervene earlier and improve their quality of life dramatically. Since 2024, we perform most procedures under local anesthesia. Patients lie comfortably on the operating table, watch the surgery on a TV screen—like a cinema—and we explain what’s happening. We talk, we laugh, and they leave smiling, with visibly less swelling.”
Patients seeking diagnosis, second opinions, or advanced surgical treatment for lymphedema—whether primary or secondary—can now benefit from the world’s most experienced robotic microsurgery team. Referrals and consultations are available through the multidisciplinary UZ Brussel Lymph Clinic, which offers personalized treatment plans and one-stop diagnostic services for national and international patients.