Full Title
A Prospective Cohort Study of Patients Undergoing ALND for Treatment of Breast Cancer: The Efficacy of a Comprehensive Prevention Program in Decreasing the Incidence of Lymphedema and Improving Quality of LifePurpose
Removal of axillary (underarm) lymph nodes to check for cancer cells is often a part of breast cancer surgery. This procedure is called axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). After ALND, some people have swelling in that arm (lymphedema).
Researchers are assessing a new approach to lower the chance of lymphedema in people having ALND during breast cancer surgery. If you join this study, surgeons will reconstruct the lymphatic drainage network in your arm immediately after ALND. You will also do exercises and take other steps to prevent lymphedema. These include range of motion exercises, massage, physical therapy, and wearing compression garments (tight sleeves that prevent fluid buildup).
It is hoped that this program will prevent lymphedema in people with breast cancer and improve their quality of life.
Who Can Join
To join this study, there are a few conditions. You must:
- Be planning to have breast cancer surgery with possible ALND.
- Be a woman (assigned female at birth).
- Be age 18 to 75.
Contact
For more information or to see if you can join this study, please call Dr. Michelle Coriddi’s office at 646-608-8042.