Using 3D imaging to evaluate fat grafting for breast cancer treatment
Official title: Quantitative assessment of autologous fat grafting in breast cancer treatment using 3D imaging
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11042250 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how using your own fat to help heal the breast after cancer treatment can make recovery easier and less painful, and it’s for anyone who has had radiation therapy for breast cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $242,493 |
| NIH project number | 5R21EB035242-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042250 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer patients who have undergone radiation therapy and are considering reconstruction options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not undergone radiation therapy or those not seeking breast reconstruction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of autologous fat grafting (AFG) in breast cancer treatment, focusing on how this procedure can improve tissue healing and reduce pain after radiation therapy. By transferring fat from one part of the body to the breast, the study aims to assess the volume and shape of the breast using advanced 3D imaging techniques. The researchers will explore how the grafted fat can enhance recovery by bringing in healthy cells and growth factors that aid in tissue regeneration. The goal is to develop a better understanding of how to optimize fat grafting for improved patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to enhanced recovery and improved quality of life for breast cancer patients undergoing reconstruction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with fat grafting in breast reconstruction, but this specific approach using 3D imaging is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hanson, Summer E — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Hanson, Summer E
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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.