Prophylactic LYMphatic Reconstruction (LYMbR) to Prevent Lymphedema After Node Dissection for Cutaneous Malignancies

Launched by ALBERTA HEALTH SERVICES, CALGARY · Nov 24, 2021

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, called Prophylactic LYMphatic Reconstruction (LYMbR), is exploring a new way to help prevent lymphedema, a condition that can occur after surgery to remove lymph nodes due to skin cancer. Lymphedema can cause swelling in the arms or legs and can significantly affect a person's daily life and well-being. The study aims to see if a procedure known as lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA), which connects lymphatic vessels to veins, can reduce the chances of developing lymphedema after axillary (underarm) or groin surgery. Researchers believe that this method could lower the risk of lymphedema by two-thirds, based on previous studies.

To participate in this trial, individuals must be adults over 18 years old who are scheduled for surgery to remove lymph nodes in the axilla or groin due to skin cancer. However, those who have certain conditions, like previous lymphedema or specific types of cancer treatment, will not be eligible. Participants can expect to be monitored for lymphedema and quality of life after their surgery, providing valuable information that could help improve care for future patients. This trial is important because finding effective ways to prevent lymphedema could greatly enhance patients' lives and reduce the healthcare resources needed to manage this condition.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Adult persons (\>18 years of age) undergoing axilla or groin lymphadenectomy as part of cutaneous malignancy management.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Patients receiving a sentinel lymph node biopsy alone
• • Patients with untreated in-transit disease on the upper or lower extremities
• • Patients with established preoperative lymphedema
• • Patients with post-thrombotic syndrome
• • Pregnant patients
• • Patients with a previous history of radiation therapy to the affected nodal basin or extremity