Evaluating sensation and satisfaction in cancer and transgender mastectomy patients

Prospective Cohort Study Comparing Sensory Outcome, Development of Chronic Pain and Phantom Pain, as Well as Patient Satisfaction in Cancer and Transgender Patients Undergoing Mastectomy and Reconstruction With and Without Reinnervation.

Weill Medical College of Cornell University · NCT06094257

This study is testing if advanced surgical techniques can improve sensation and satisfaction for people undergoing gender-affirming mastectomy and breast reconstruction.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment400 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorWeill Medical College of Cornell University (other)
Locations2 sites (Boston, Massachusetts and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06094257 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess postoperative sensation and patient-reported outcomes in individuals undergoing gender-affirming mastectomy and breast reconstruction. It compares patients who receive advanced surgical reinnervation techniques to those who do not, focusing on the impact of these techniques on sensation and satisfaction. The study employs quantitative sensory testing to measure various aspects of sensation, addressing limitations in previous research. By utilizing a standardized approach, the study seeks to provide comprehensive insights into the effectiveness of nerve preservation and grafting during mastectomy procedures.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults over 18 scheduled for gender-affirming mastectomy or breast reconstruction.

Not a fit: Patients with pre-existing nerve conditions or those on medications affecting nerve regeneration may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved postoperative sensation and satisfaction for patients undergoing mastectomy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive outcomes with similar reinnervation techniques, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age over 18
* Patient is scheduled for gender mastectomy surgery (including nipple sparing mastectomy and mastectomy with free nipple graft) or NSM with breast implant or autologous reconstruction
* Patient is capable and willing to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patient has a nerve condition that does not allow for assessment of sensation
* Any subject who at the discretion of the Investigator is not suitable for inclusion in the study or is unlikely to comply with follow-up schedule
* Currently prescribed medication known to impact nerve regeneration or to cause peripheral neuropathy
* Bilateral reconstruction with non-uniform treatment (i.e. 1 reconstructed breast is non-neurotized, 1 reconstructed breast is neurotized)

Where this trial is running

Boston, Massachusetts and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Sensation Disorders, Sensation, Phantom, Pain, Postoperative, Pain, Chronic, Numbness, Sensory Disorder, Sensory Defect, Phantom Pain

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.