Electromagnetic diathermia: A lymphoscintigraphic and light reflection rheographic study of leg lymphatic and venous dynamics in healthy subjects

Because electromagnetic diathermia (ED) has been reported to reduce lymphed ema, we opted to examine the effects of ED on leg venous and lymph dynamics in healthy subjects. To examine lymph flow, we performed lymphangioscintig raphy (LAS) in 10 subjects without leg edema and used static images at the injection site and at the inguinal region for "control data. " Later, we ap plied ED (2450 MHz, 200W) and then repeated the LAS using the same dosage a nd volume. Differences between the first and second sessions were examined using two way ANOVA and the differences between the scores with or without ED were analyzed by a Student's t-test. To examine venous flow, we first te sted the left lower leg of 15 healthy subjects on two occasions using light reflection rheography(LRR). Venous refill time was recorded after each ind ividual performed 10 dorsiflexions with the left foot on three occasions wi th an interval of 3 minutes between each recording. Thereafter, 20 minutes ED (2450 MHZ, 200W) was applied and using the same protocol venous refill t ime,was recorded and repeated after an interval of one week. The 50% level and the declination angle of the refill time was determined and differences between the experimental and control groups analyzed by ANOVA. The results between the first and second sessions were consistent and repro ducible with or without the electromagnetic application, with no change of radiotracer transport from the injection site or arrival at the inguinal no des. There was also a high correlation between the scores for the 50% level and declination angle (r=0.97) after LRR. Thus, after ED there was an acce lerated venous refill time. In conclusion, after ED there was no increase i n lymph flow but there was accelerated venous return.