NCT06144164 · Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
A Study of a Comprehensive Prevention Program to Reduce Lymphedema After Axillary Lymph Node Dissection in People With Breast Cancer
What this study is about
The purpose of this study to test whether a comprehensive program may help the lymph fluid to drain out of the treatment group$1 and prevent lymphedema in participants with breast cancer.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study to test whether a comprehensive program may help the lymph fluid to drain out of the arm and prevent lymphedema in participants with breast cancer.
Interventions
PROCEDURE
Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction
Immediate Lymphatic Reconstruction will happen at the time of Axillary Lymph Node Dissection
DIAGNOSTIC_TEST
Volumetric arm measurements
Volumetric arm measurements will occur at each in-person postoperative visit time points.
OTHER
Lymphatic massage
Participants will begin self-directed lymphatic massage 24 to 48 h after surgery and will continue to do lymphatic massage 3 times a week for 3 months after surgery or until 3 months after any adjuvant treatments (chemotherapy, radiation, etc.) are completed
OTHER
Range of motion exercises
Participants will begin self-directed lymphatic massage 24 to 48 h after surgery and will continue to do lymphatic massage 3 times a week for 3 months after surgery or until 3 months after any adjuvant treatments (chemotherapy, radiation, etc.) are completed
OTHER
Compression garment use
Participants will use compression garments 24 to 48 h after surgery and will continue daily use for at least 8 h a day for 3 months or until 3 months after any adjuvant treatments are completed
Primary outcome measures
The difference between the baseline and postoperative arm volume measurement
Time frame: Up to 24 months
The primary objective is to determine the efficacy of a prevention program in decreasing the development of lymphedema in participants treated for breast cancer with Axillary Lymph Node Dissection/ALND by use of arm volume measurements. A ≥ 10% increase in RVC (arm volume difference between the affected and unaffected arms) between baseline and postoperative measures occurring at 12 months or later will indicate the development of lymphedema
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Diagnosis of breast cancer
- Ages 18 to 75 years
- Consented for unilateral ALND or for unilateral SLNB with possible ALND
Exclusion criteria
- Does not speak English
- Does not fit into study garment
- Axillary recurrence
- History of ALND
- Requirement of bilateral ALND for the treatment of breast cancer
- Treatment with SLNB only
- Known anaphylactic allergy to ICG dye used in ILR
- Impaired decision-making capacity
Where
- Basking Ridge, New Jersey
- Middletown, New Jersey
- Montvale, New Jersey
- Commack, New York
- Harrison, New York
- New York, New York
- Uniondale, New York
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Nov 10, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations