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Vascularized Omentum Lymph Node Transfer (VOLT)

What is Vascularized Omentum Lymph Node Transfer (VOLT)?

VOLT is one of the most advanced microsurgical procedures available for treating chronic arm lymphedema, a frustrating, often painful side effect of breast cancer treatment.

The procedure involves transplanting healthy lymphatic tissue from the omentum (a specialized organ in the abdomen) to the affected arm to help restore normal fluid drainage. By restoring functional lymphatic tissue to affected areas, VOLT offers the potential for significant, long-term relief.

 

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Key Information

  • VOLT uses healthy lymph nodes from the omentum, a naturally rich source of lymphatic tissue inside the abdomen.
  • The omentum is harvested using minimally invasive techniques (laparoscopy or robotic surgery), reducing surgical trauma. There is no risk of causing donor site lymphedema by transplanting this tissue.
  • The transplanted tissue is microsurgically connected to vessels in the arm to re-establish lymphatic flow.
  • PRMA offers VOLT as an inpatient procedure at our San Antonio facility.
  • While lymphedema cannot be cured, VOLT can dramatically reduce swelling and discomfort over time.
  • VOLT may be combined with other lymphedema or reconstructive procedures for optimal outcomes.
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What to Expect During Surgery

VOLT is performed under general anesthesia. A small portion of the omentum is carefully removed through tiny incisions in the abdomen using laparoscopic or robotic techniques. Rich in lymph nodes and vessels, this tissue is microsurgically transplanted to the affected arm.

Our surgeons use highly precise techniques to reconnect the blood vessels, allowing the transferred lymph nodes to integrate into your body’s lymphatic system and begin draining fluid from the swollen area.
Patients typically stay in the hospital for a short 2 night recovery period before continuing healing at home.

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during-surgery
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Before & After

See real results from women who’ve trusted PRMA with their reconstruction journey.
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Procedure: Bilateral Mastectomy with Immediate High Definition DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction
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Before img-1
Procedure: Bilateral Mastectomy with Immediate High Definition DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction
Before img-1
Before img-1
Procedure: Bilateral Mastectomy with Immediate High Definition DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction
Before img-1
Before img-1
Procedure: Bilateral Mastectomy with Immediate High Definition DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction
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Recovery Timeline

  • Week 1:
    Initial swelling and fatigue are common. Most patients remain in the hospital for observation and pain control. For 2 nights.
  • Week 2:
    You may begin light movement of the affected arm. Swelling may start to decrease gradually. At the 2 week point therapy and compression can resume without restriction. This is then reduced as symptoms improve over time.
  • Week 3-4:
    Post-operative swelling continues to subside. Lymphedema symptoms may noticeably improve. Patients resume most daily activities.
  • Beyond 1 Month:
    Ongoing improvement in arm volume and functionality. Continued follow-up and physical therapy are essential for long-term success.

Am I a Candidate for VOLT?

You may be a good candidate for VOLT if:

  • You have moderate to severe lymphedema in the arm
  • Conservative treatments haven’t been effective
  • You are able to undergo surgery and anesthesia
  • You’re looking for a long-term solution to reduce swelling, improve mobility, and enhance daily quality of life
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Find Your Surgeon

PRMA’s board-certified, fellowship-trained microsurgeons perform over 1,000 DIEP flap procedures every year, making us one of the most experienced breast reconstruction centers in the world. Every surgery is performed by two microsurgeons, enhancing safety, precision, and outcomes—with a flap success rate of over 99%. With more than 15,000 reconstructions performed to date, our team delivers world-class expertise you can trust.
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Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo
Championing Advanced Breast Reconstruction Access Nationwide
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Dr. Gary Arishita
Dedicated to Restoring Confidence Through Expert Reconstruction
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Dr. Oscar Ochoa
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon & Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
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Dr. Gary Arishita
Dedicated to Restoring Confidence Through Expert Reconstruction
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Dr. Oscar Ochoa
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon & Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)

Will Insurance Cover VOLT?

Coverage for VOLT can vary based on your plan. Our team will verify your benefits, obtain pre-authorization, and provide an up-front cost estimate so you can make an informed decision. For uncovered costs, we offer financing options, including CareCredit.

For more information, visit [Insurance FAQs] in the patient resource center.

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Preparing for Surgery

Learn what to expect before your procedure, including pre-op instructions, travel recommendations, and recovery planning.

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Preparing for Surgery
Travel Accomodations

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to see results from VOLT?
Most patients begin seeing gradual improvement within weeks, with full results developing over several months.
Will the omentum removal affect my digestion or health?
No. The omentum is a large, redundant structure, and removing a portion does not impact its function.
Can VOLT be combined with breast reconstruction?
Yes. In many cases, VOLT is performed alongside natural tissue reconstruction for holistic recovery.
Is physical therapy still required after VOLT?
Yes. Post-operative physical therapy is an essential part of your recovery and helps maximize the long-term success of the procedure. Your care team will develop a therapy plan tailored to your needs.
How is VOLT different from traditional lymph node transfer surgery?
Unlike traditional lymph node transfers that use tissue from the groin or neck, VOLT uses lymph nodes from the omentum. This internal, minimally invasive donor site significantly reduces the risk of donor-site lymphedema.
What are the risks associated with VOLT?
As with any surgery, risks may include infection, bleeding, delayed healing, or issues with the transferred tissue. However, VOLT is performed using advanced microsurgical techniques, and complications are rare, especially with our dual-surgeon approach.

Discover if VOLT Could Be Part of Your Journey to Relief

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