New surgery aims to stop lymphedema in cancer patients

NCT ID NCT03428581

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested a surgical method to prevent lymphedema (arm swelling) in people having lymph nodes removed for breast cancer or melanoma. The technique, called axillary reverse mapping with lympho-venous bypass, aims to preserve arm drainage while removing cancer-affected nodes. The trial was terminated early, so it's unclear how well it works.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

surgical procedure (axillary reverse mapping with lympho-venous bypass)

What this could lead to

If successful, this approach could reduce the risk of chronic arm swelling after lymph node removal, improving quality of life for cancer survivors.

What could go wrong

The trial was terminated early, so results are limited. The procedure is complex and may not work for everyone. It also requires a skilled surgeon, limiting widespread use.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

breast cancer breast neoplasm melanoma lymphedema prevention target

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Mayo Clinic in Florida

    Jacksonville, Florida, 32224, United States

  • Mayo Clinic in Rochester

    Rochester, Minnesota, 55905, United States