Creating a device to prevent lymphedema after cancer treatment
Development of a Bioengineered Therapeutic Device for the Prevention of Lymphedema
This study is testing a new device that could help prevent lymphedema, which causes swelling in breast cancer survivors, by using a special implant to improve lymph fluid flow and tackle the problem at its source.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Palo Alto Veterans Instit for Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Palo Alto, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10979412 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a bioengineered therapeutic device aimed at preventing lymphedema, a condition that causes swelling due to lymph fluid accumulation, particularly in breast cancer survivors. The approach involves implanting a specially designed conduit made from nanofibrillar collagen to bridge obstructions in the lymphatic system. By optimizing the conduit’s properties, the researchers aim to provide a surgical solution that not only alleviates symptoms but also prevents the onset of lymphedema. Patients participating in this research may benefit from a novel treatment that addresses the root cause of their condition rather than just managing symptoms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer survivors who are at risk of developing lymphedema due to lymphatic obstruction.
Not a fit: Patients who have already developed severe lymphedema or those with other unrelated conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of lymphedema in cancer survivors, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar bioengineered approaches in treating lymphedema, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Palo Alto, United States
- Palo Alto Veterans Instit for Research — Palo Alto, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huang, Ngan F. — Palo Alto Veterans Instit for Research
- Study coordinator: Huang, Ngan F.
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 below.