📖 Overview
Lymphography allows visualisation of lymphatic channels and the thoracic duct. Combined with thoracic duct embolization, it is the reference treatment for chylothorax (milky lymphatic fluid in the pleural space) and chylous ascites following surgery, trauma, or spontaneous lymphatic leak.
At Cochin AP-HP, the procedure uses ultrasound-guided intranodal injection of Lipiodol® into inguinal lymph nodes to opacify the thoracic duct, followed by percutaneous transabdominal access to the cisterna chyli for embolization with coils and/or glue (cyanoacrylate).
⚡ At a glance — key figures
Lymphography visualises and treats lymphatic leaks (chylothorax, lymphocele) by injecting contrast into the lymphatic system, with the option of embolizing the thoracic duct if needed.
| Criterion | Data |
|---|---|
| Indication | Lymphatic leaks after surgery or trauma, chylothorax |
| Anaesthesia | Local; the procedure is long but well tolerated |
| Effectiveness | Often curative for identified lymphatic leaks |
| Cost | Yes. At Cochin AP-HP (a French public hospital), this procedure is covered by national health insurance with no out-of-pocket fees. Please use our contact form. |
Data validated by the team of Prof. Anthony Dohan, Department of Interventional Radiology, Cochin Hospital AP-HP.
🎯 Indications
- Post-surgical chylothorax (cardiac surgery, oesophagectomy, lung resection)
- Chylous ascites (post-retroperitoneal surgery, lymphoma)
- Traumatic thoracic duct injury
- Failed conservative management (MCT diet, octreotide, chest drain) after 2 weeks
❓ Frequently asked questions
🔗 Related pages
🇫🇷 This page is also available in French: lymphographie.html
✓ Why this page is trustworthy
Written by the Interventional Radiology team at Cochin Hospital AP-HP, Université Paris Cité. Medically reviewed by an interventional radiologist of the department. Last updated: August 2026.