Understanding breast cancer-related lymphedema

Early Diagnosis of Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema

Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital. · NCT06046365

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 typeObservational
Enrollment300 (estimated)
Ages20 Years to 80 Years
SexFemale
SponsorKaohsiung Veterans General Hospital. (other)
Locations1 site (Kaohsiung City)
Trial IDNCT06046365 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are female patients aged 20 to 80 who have undergone or are scheduled for breast cancer surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with unhealed wounds, significant cognitive impairments, or upper limb functional abnormalities may not benefit from this study.

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 performed: While there is ongoing research in this area, this study's specific combination of techniques and focus on early detection represents a novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Kaohsiung City

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: Lymphedema, lymphoedema, limb circumference, tissue hardness

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.