Understanding breast cancer-related lymphedema
Official title: Early Diagnosis of Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema
Run by Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital. · NCT06046365 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to understand what causes swelling in the arms of women after breast cancer surgery by using special imaging techniques to look at how lymphatic fluid moves and how the tissues feel.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 20 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 300 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital. Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Kaohsiung City) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 24, 2022 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | June 11, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06046365 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are female patients aged 20 to 80 who have undergone or are scheduled for breast cancer surgery.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with unhealed wounds, significant cognitive impairments, or upper limb functional abnormalities 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 investigate the mechanisms behind upper limb lymphedema following breast cancer surgery. It will recruit female patients who have undergone or are expected to undergo breast cancer resection and utilize various advanced imaging techniques, including Indocyanine Green lymphography and Lymphoscintigraphy, to identify lymphatic blockages. Additionally, Shear Wave Elastography will assess tissue compliance, while DXA body composition analysis will compare limb composition ratios. The study seeks to explore the relationships among lymphatic circulation, limb circumference, tissue compliance, and blood flow changes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved early detection and management of lymphedema in breast cancer patients.
How similar studies have gone: While there is ongoing research in this area, this study's specific combination of techniques and focus on early detection represents a novel approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Female patients who are expected to undergo breast cancer resection surgery or have already undergone breast resection surgery for breast cancer. * Absence of unhealed open wounds or other conditions unsuitable for tactile measurements within the measurement area. * No severe cognitive or emotional impairments. * No substance abuse (alcohol or drugs). * Females aged between 20 and 80, capable of fully complying with the requirements of this study plan. Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of unhealed open wounds or other conditions unsuitable for tactile measurements within the measurement area. * Upper limb abnormalities in function (including joint mobility and muscle strength). * Significant cognitive, auditory, or expressive language issues that hinder comprehension and compliance with instructions. * Lack of assistance for daily measurements.
Where it's running
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Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital
Kaohsiung City, Taiwan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Zheng Yu Hoe
- Email: jhoe@vghks.gov.tw
- Phone: +886935517631
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.