Smart sensors could help cancer survivors track arm swelling at home
NCT ID NCT06778837
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested small wearable sensors to see if they can accurately measure lymphedema, a condition where fluid builds up and causes swelling, often after cancer treatment. Thirty adults with arm lymphedema wore the sensors during one visit, and researchers compared the readings to standard medical devices. The goal is to find a simple, safe way for patients to monitor their condition at home.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- wearable sensors
- What this could lead to
- If successful, these sensors could offer a simple, non-invasive way to monitor lymphedema at home, helping patients and doctors catch swelling early.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, completed validation study with only 30 participants. The sensors may not be accurate enough for widespread use, and more testing is needed.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Participants
-
30 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
-
Jan 2025
- Finished
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Dec 2025
- Lead sponsor
-
Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
Who is studied
This study will recruit patients using the above specified criteria in the Chicagoland area.
- Ages
-
18 years and older
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
-
Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients with a diagnosis of unilateral lymphedema that affects the upper extremity (UE). * Patients previously diagnosed with non-metastatic cancer. * Adults 18 years of age and older. Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with history of lymphatic surgery. * Patients with implantable devices (e.g., pacemaker, pacemaker/defibrillator, intrathecal pump, joint replacements, etc.) or any other device deemed unsafe by the treating investigator. * Patients with an amputation involving the upper extremity. * Patients with known allergies to adhesives - including silicone adhesives. * Patients with the following comorbidities: diabetes, congestive heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, irradiated upper extremity skin, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, open wounds/skin breakdown.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Northwestern University
Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States
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