Comparing different methods of processing fat used in breast reconstruction
Official title: Characterizing the autologous fat graft microenvironment resulting from differential intraoperative processing techniques: A comparative analysis and its clinical implications
Funded at Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-11034931 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different ways of preparing fat for breast reconstruction after mastectomy can affect how well the fat stays in place and how successful the procedure is, so that patients can have better outcomes and fewer complications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $247,660 |
| NIH project number | 1R21CA287340-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11034931 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing breast reconstruction who require autologous fat grafting.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not candidates for breast reconstruction or those who do not require fat grafting will not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how different techniques for processing autologous fat grafts affect their retention and overall success in breast reconstruction after mastectomy. By comparing three distinct fat grafting devices, the study aims to identify which method leads to better outcomes in terms of graft retention and potential complications. Patients undergoing fat grafting will have their fat samples analyzed to assess the microscopic changes resulting from each processing technique. This could help establish evidence-based guidelines for fat grafting procedures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved techniques for fat grafting, enhancing the success rates of breast reconstruction surgeries.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been limited research comparing fat grafting techniques, this study aims to fill a gap in evidence-based practices, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Otterburn, David — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Otterburn, David
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.