Understanding how to improve recovery from post-surgical lymphedema
Official title: Novel Mechanisms in the Resolution of Post-Surgical Lymphedema
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11075832 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the body heals from swelling in the arms or legs after cancer surgery, and it aims to find new ways to help people recover better and feel more comfortable.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $148,759 |
| NIH project number | 5K08HL167164-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11075832 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have developed lymphedema following cancer surgery, particularly those who have undergone lymph node excision.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not undergone surgery or do not have lymphedema may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the resolution of post-surgical lymphedema, a condition that causes limb swelling due to lymphatic dysfunction often following cancer surgeries. The project aims to explore how spontaneous lymphovenous shunts and lymphangiogenesis contribute to the healing process. By studying both human patients and animal models, the research seeks to identify new treatment strategies that could enhance recovery and reduce complications associated with lymphedema. The principal investigator is a junior physician dedicated to advancing care for patients suffering from this chronic condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options and better recovery outcomes for patients with post-surgical lymphedema.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding lymphatic function and recovery mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
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
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Biodegradable drug-eluting scaffold to promote lymphatic healing for lymphedema
A new scaffold that slowly releases 9-cis retinoic acid to help grow healthy lymph vessels in people with lymphedema, especially cancer survivors.
-
Mechanisms of Junctional Proteins in Lymphedema After Breast Cancer Surgery
Scientists are studying how tiny protein gaps in lymph vessels contribute to swelling after breast cancer surgery, with the goal of helping people who develop lymphedema.
-
Image-based detection and monitoring of secondary lymphedema in head and neck cancer
A new, smartphone-enabled method uses simple computer vision to detect and track secondary lymphedema in people treated for head and neck cancer.
-
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.
-
Bioengineered conduit to prevent lymphedema after cancer surgery
A new resorbable conduit implanted during surgery could help prevent lymphedema in cancer survivors by bridging lymphatic obstructions.
-
Bioengineered lymphatic healing platform for breast cancer-related lymphedema
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.