Preventing swelling after surgery for breast cancer using new technology
Official title: Prevention of Post-Surgical Lymphedema using Tissue Nanotransfection Technology
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10810319 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help prevent swelling in the arms or legs after breast cancer surgery by using a special technology to improve lymphatic function, and it's designed for patients who have had surgery that might put them at risk for lymphedema.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | September 19, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $383,574 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AR082600-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10810319 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women undergoing axillary lymph node dissection as part of their breast cancer treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have already developed lymphedema or those not undergoing surgery for breast cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to prevent lymphedema, a chronic condition that causes limb swelling, particularly after surgeries for breast cancer. The study focuses on using tissue nanotransfection technology to enhance lymphatic function and reduce the risk of developing lymphedema following axillary lymph node dissection. Patients will be monitored for changes in limb size and symptoms, with the goal of improving their quality of life and reducing healthcare costs associated with lymphedema. The methodology involves surgical techniques combined with advanced technology to potentially reconstruct lymphatic pathways.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of lymphedema in patients undergoing surgery for breast cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using surgical techniques to prevent lymphedema, but this specific approach utilizing tissue nanotransfection technology is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hassanein, Aladdin Hasan — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Hassanein, Aladdin Hasan
Related research
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Mechanisms of Junctional Proteins in Lymphedema After Breast Cancer Surgery
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Image-based detection and monitoring of secondary lymphedema in head and neck cancer
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Lymphedema Prevention with Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction for Breast Cancer Patients
This grant tests a surgical approach to help people with breast cancer reduce lymphedema after surgery.
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Bioengineered conduit to prevent lymphedema after cancer surgery
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A new brainy hydrogel-based approach aims to help people who develop lymphedema after breast cancer by guiding and regenerating lymphatic vessels.
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.