Short summary

Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is a chronic condition causing arm swelling and reduced quality of life. Lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) is a promising super-microsurgical procedure designed to improve lymphatic drainage. This multicenter cohort study evaluates LVA's impact on arm volume and quality of life in BCRL patients. Arm volume and patient-reported outcomes are measured at baseline, six, and twelve months post-surgery to determine LVA's effectiveness in managing BCRL.

Rationale

The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficay of lymphovenous anastomosis surgery on arm volume and quality of life amongst patients with breast cancer related lymphedema.

Description of the cohort

47 femal patients with arm lymphedema secondary to breast cancer with active pitting.

Data and biological material

Data collected for analysis are arm volume measures in mL, quality of life measured using validated and standardized questinnaires (LYMPH-Q, DASH and SF-36), body compositon measured with bioimpedans, skinfibrosis measured with SkinFibroMeter and local skin water content measured with LymphScanner.

Collaborating researchers and departments

Department of Plastic Surgery

• Odense University Hospital