Comparing quality of life in lymphedema patients after surgery versus non-surgical management
Official title: A Prospective Study Comparing Quality of Life in Patients With Lymphedema Who Undergo Surgical Treatment Versus Non-Surgical Management
Run by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center · NCT03248310 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at whether surgery or non-surgical treatment helps people with lymphedema feel better in the long run.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 600 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 3 sites (Harrison, New York and 2 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 9, 2017 |
| Main results expected | August 2027 |
| Study ends | August 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 24, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT03248310 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-80 with primary or secondary lymphedema of the upper or lower extremity at ISL stages 1, 2, or 3.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with clotting disorders, venous insufficiency, or end-stage lymphedema may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to evaluate the long-term quality of life outcomes for patients with lymphedema who undergo surgical treatment, specifically vascularized lymph node transfer, compared to those who opt for non-surgical management. Participants will be assessed for their quality of life over time, providing insights into the effectiveness of surgical intervention versus conservative treatment. The study includes patients aged 18-80 with varying stages of lymphedema and will exclude those with certain medical conditions or who cannot complete questionnaires.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide valuable information on the benefits of surgical treatment for lymphedema, potentially improving patient care and decision-making.
How similar studies have gone: While this study focuses on a specific surgical approach, similar studies have shown promising results in improving quality of life for lymphedema patients through surgical interventions.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients aged 18-80 years * Primary and secondary lymphedema of the upper or lower extremity * International Society of Lymphology (ISL) Stage 1, 2, or 3 lymphedema * Proficiency in English language Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with clotting disorders, venous insufficiency, end-stage lymphedema unless they are on the non-surgical arm. * Additionally, if the patient refuses to complete questionnaires, the patient will be excluded from the study and replaced at the discretion of the principal or co-principal investigator.
Where it's running
-
Memorial Sloan Kettering Westchester (Limited Protocol Activities)
Harrison, New York, United States Recruiting -
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
New York, New York, United States Recruiting -
Memorial Sloan Kettering Nassau (Limited Protocol Activites)
Rockville Centre, New York, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Babak Mahrara, MD — Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Babak Mahrara, MD
- Email: mehrarab@MSKCC.ORG
- Phone: 646-608-8085
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
-
Use of reconstructive microsurgery to treat lymphedema
This study tests whether reconstructive microsurgery, with or without the help of indocyanine green imaging, can help people with lymphedema feel and function better by improving lymphatic drainage.
-
Predicting lymphedema risk in inflammatory breast cancer patients using preoperative body impedance analysis
This study tests whether a preoperative bioimpedance test can help identify IBC patients who are at risk for developing lymphedema.
-
Boosted compression for lower limb edema
This study tests whether applying a multicomponent short-stretch bandage three times daily (boosted compression) helps reduce edema faster in people with chronic edema or lymphedema of the legs, compared with the standard single daily bandage.
-
Erector Spinae Block vs Paravertebral Block for Chronic Pain After Mastectomy
This trial tests whether an erector spinae block can better prevent chronic pain after mastectomy than a paravertebral block in adults 18–80.
-
Resistance exercise for people with lower-limb lymphedema
This study tests whether short periods of supervised resistance exercise, with and without compression garments, change swelling or symptoms in people with lower-limb lymphedema.
-
Tracking body composition changes after breast cancer treatment
This project will see how muscle mass and fat distribution change over two years in adults treated for stage I–III breast cancer.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.