Computational fluid dynamic modeling of the lymphatic system: a review of existing models and future directions.

Historically, research into the lymphatic system has been overlooked due to both a lack of knowledge and limited recognition of its importance. In the last decade however, lymphatic research has gained substantial momentum and has included the development of a variety of computational models to aid understanding of this complex system. This article reviews existing computational fluid dynamic models of the lymphatics covering each structural component including the initial lymphatics, pre-collecting and collecting vessels, and lymph nodes.

Kidney Lymphatics.

Following significant advances in lymphatic biology, the important role of kidney lymphatics in kidney function and dysfunction is now being more fully appreciated. Kidney lymphatics begin in the cortex as blind-ended lymphatic capillaries and then coalesce into larger lymphatics that follow the main blood vessels out through the kidney hilum. Their function in draining interstitial fluid, macromolecules, and cells underpins their important role in kidney fluid and immune homeostasis.

Vmeasur: A software package for experimental and clinical measurement of mesenteric lymphatic contractile function over an extended vessel length.

Objective: Conventionally, in vivo mesenteric lymphatic contractile function is measured using a high magnification transmission microscope (field of view 0.3-1.5 mm), which precludes visualization of extended lengths of vessels embedded in mesenteric fat.

Lymphatic contractile function: a comprehensive review of drug effects and potential clinical application.

The lymphatic system and the cardiovascular (CV) system work together to maintain body fluid homeostasis. Despite that, the lymphatic system has been relatively neglected as a potential drug target and a source of adverse effects from CV drugs. Like the heart, the lymphatic vessels undergo phasic contractions to promote lymph flow against a pressure gradient.

The Lymphovenous Junction of the Thoracic Duct: A Systematic Review of its Structural and Functional Anatomy.

The lymphovenous junction (LVJ) of the thoracic duct (TD) is the principle outlet of the lymphatic system. Interest in this junction is growing as its role in lymphatic outflow obstruction is being realized, and as minimally invasive procedures for accessing the terminal TD become more common. Despite the growing clinical significance of the LVJ, its precise form and function remain unclear.

Anatomy of the lymphovenous valve of the thoracic duct in humans.

The majority of lymph generated in the body is returned to the blood circulation via the lymphovenous junction (LVJ) of the thoracic duct (TD). A lymphovenous valve (LVV) is thought to guard this junction by regulating the flow of lymph to the veins and preventing blood from entering the lymphatic system. Despite these important functions, the morphology and mechanism of this valve remains unclear.

Renal Lymphatics: Anatomy, Physiology, and Clinical Implications.

Renal lymphatics are abundant in the cortex of the normal kidney but have been largely neglected in discussions around renal diseases. They originate in the substance of the renal lobule as blind-ended initial capillaries, and can either follow the main arteries and veins toward the hilum, or penetrate the capsule to join capsular lymphatics. There are no valves present in interlobular lymphatics, which allows lymph formed in the cortex to exit the kidney in either direction.

Admission, management and outcomes of acute pancreatitis in intensive care.

Background: A review of the management of acute pancreatitis (AP) at a tertiary intensive care unit (ICU) in Auckland, New Zealand, was published in 2004. This paper aims to update this series and identify changes in admission criteria, management and outcomes.

Methods: A retrospective review of patients admitted to the Department of Critical Care Medicine, Auckland City Hospital, with AP from 2003 to 2014 was undertaken and data compared with the previous study (1988-2001).