Using skin sensors to detect cancer-related arm swelling

Project Limb Rescue: A Pilot Study Evaluating the Feasibility of Transcutaneous Sensors for the Detection of Cancer-Related Lymphedema

NA · Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center · NCT06305884

This study tests if skin sensors can help spot arm swelling caused by cancer early on, so people can get better treatment.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment70 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorOhio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center (other)
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Columbus, Ohio)
Trial IDNCT06305884 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of adhesive-based sensors that adhere to the skin for detecting lymphedema, a condition characterized by long-term arm swelling due to cancer. The study employs photoplethysmography and bioimpedance techniques to identify unique signatures that differentiate between participants with and without lymphedema. Participants will wear sensors while at rest and during activity to gather data on arm swelling. The goal is to enable early detection of lymphedema, which can lead to more effective treatment outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals with a history of cancer therapy and pre-existing lymphedema, as well as healthy participants for comparison.

Not a fit: Patients with active malignancies or those undergoing ongoing cancer therapy may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a non-invasive, at-home method for early detection of lymphedema in cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using similar sensor technologies for health monitoring, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* COHORT A: Healthy participants
* COHORT B: Participants with pre-existing lymphedema
* COHORT B: A history of cancer therapy with surgery or radiation involving the axillary basin
* COHORT B: Unilateral upper extremity swelling that requires compression or pneumatic therapy or a \>= 2-centimeter difference in contralateral arm circumference

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with active malignancy or ongoing cancer therapy will be excluded, though breast cancer patients currently on endocrine monotherapy will be included

Where this trial is running

Columbus, Ohio

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: Hematopoietic and Lymphoid System Neoplasm, Lymphedema, Malignant Solid Neoplasm

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.