Summit Welcome & Introductions

The rapidly evolving world of lymphatic research is already creating a substantial impact upon the practice of lymphatic medicine. The 2021 State-of-the-Art Lymphatic Medicine Summit highlights the interface between the investigative process and the optimal current management of lymphatic patients. Evolving concepts and unanswered questions are emphasized.

The Centers of Excellence Summit was hosted by Stanford University School of Medicine and LE&RN. It was organized and chaired by Stanley G.Rockson, M.D., LE&RN co-founder and the Allan and Tina Neill Professor of Lymphatic Research and Medicine at Stanford University.

Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

• More fully comprehend the emerging investigative concepts as they relate to the biology of the lymphatic system in health and disease
• Undertake appropriate diagnostic interventions for patients with lymphatic disease throughout the lymphatic continuum
• Propose state-of-the-art treatment options and interventions for patients with lymphatic disease, including those with lymphedema and lymphedema-related cellulitis, phlebolymphedema, lipedema, and lymphatic and complex vascular malformations
• More fully comprehend the impact of normal and abnormal lymphatic function within the broad realm of organ-specific morbidity and mortality

Up to 10 million Americans are estimated to be living with lymphedema (LE) and there are an additional 17 million women in America estimated to have lipedema(LI). The World Health Organization projects up to 250 million people with LE worldwide. Nevertheless, lymphatic patients still struggle to find physicians who are prepared to undertake their necessary medical care. Upon completion of this summit, participants will be better equipped to provide state-of-the-art lymphatic care.