A Method for Making a Lymphatic Specimen of the Dorsum of the Hand.

PURPOSE: To make a lymphatic specimen of the dorsum of the hand for educational and clinical purposes. METHODS: A total of four hands from two unembalmed human cadavers were used. Under a surgical microscope, 6% hydrogen peroxide was employed to detect the lymphatic vessels commencing from fingers. A 30-gauge needle was inserted into vessels and injected with a barium sulphate mixture. Each specimen was radiographed, photographed, and dissected to demonstrate the lymphatic vessels on the dorsum of the hand. After being embalmed in 4% formalin for 3 months, specimen was then sealed in a plexiglass container for display. RESULTS: An average of sixteen lymph collecting vessels were found in the subcutaneous tissue of the dorsum of the hand. The diameter of the vessels varied from 0.2 mm to 0.6 mm. Vessels were the continuation of lymph vessels arising from fingers. They travelled meanderingly in the subcutaneous tissue and traversed over or under the veins when they met. CONCLUSION: Actual and accurate lymphatic distributions of the dorsum of the hand have been described and displayed. The information upgrades our anatomical knowledge and the results will be of benefit for the lymphatic education and clinical application.