An innovative procedure in the Chinese mainland is turning heads! Researchers are exploring a repurposed neck surgery, deep cervical lymphovenous anastomosis (dcLVA), to help clear toxic proteins from the brain – a potential breakthrough for Alzheimer’s patients.
Originally developed for limb lymphedema, this technique reroutes blocked lymphatic vessels to neck veins, easing drainage. The idea took shape when a patient treated for chronic tinnitus not only lost the ringing but also experienced clearer vision and reduced brain fog. It was a twist as unexpected as an Easter egg in your favorite video game! 🎮
Dr. Xie Qingping, a pioneer in microsurgery and lymphatic techniques at Hangzhou Qiushi Hospital, has performed the procedure on over 600 patients since 2020, with roughly 80% showing cognitive or behavioral improvements. His observations connect with groundbreaking research on the brain’s glymphatic system, highlighted by work from U.S. neuroscientists like Jonathan Kipnis and Antoine Louveau.
Although the surgery is still experimental and carries some risks, it offers fresh hope to families affected by advanced Alzheimer’s. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting leap in medical science! 😊
Reference(s):
Neck surgery raises hope for Alzheimer's patients: What to know
cgtn.com
