Lymphedema is a common disorder of the fluid vessels that we have in our bodies, especially our legs and arms.  These vessels help maintain the balance of fluid.  Arteries will bring blood to an extremity or an organ and veins will bring blood back from those organs.  Typical symptoms of lymphedema are swelling of an extremity, typically including in the upper extremity the hand, arm and upper arm, and in the lower extremity, the foot, ankle, and calf.  Lymphedema can be a primary problem.  It is typically congenital.  It can be a secondary problem from certain types of infection, surgical procedures, or trauma.  The treatment is typically conservative with elevation, massage, compression stocking, and a device called a lymphopump which will help control the swelling in an extremity.  Rarely surgery is necessary to control this problem.