Plain-English translation of NCT05601037 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
This study is testing a surgical technique called lymphovenous anastomosis — a small bypass that connects lymphatic vessels to veins — performed at the time of lymph node removal surgery for breast cancer. Researchers want to see if creating this bypass during your cancer surgery can reduce the risk of developing swelling in your arm and hand afterward. You'll be randomly assigned to either receive this bypass procedure along with standard surgery, or to receive standard surgery alone.
Many breast cancer patients who have lymph nodes removed develop lymphedema — painful, long-term swelling in the arm and hand — which can significantly affect quality of life. This trial exists to find out whether performing this bypass surgery at the time of lymph node removal can prevent that swelling from happening in the first place.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
If you enroll, you'll undergo your planned breast cancer surgery, and at that time you'll either receive the lymphovenous anastomosis bypass (the new technique) or standard surgery, depending on random assignment. After surgery, you'll have follow-up visits over 2 years where doctors will check your arm for swelling and monitor your recovery. The study takes about 2 years from the time of your surgery.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 18, 2026 · Not medical advice
Belgium
University Hospital, Ghent
Enrollment target
~80 participants
Started
June 2021
Primary completion
December 2025
This trial's estimated completion date has passed — the record may not be fully up to date.
Age range
18 Years – 99 Years
Sex
Female only
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in November 2024.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Bernard Depypere, MD
UZ GENT
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.