CompletedNot ApplicableInterventional

Wearable technology in post breast surgery upper limb rehabilitation

This study is exploring a new way to help women recover after breast cancer surgery. Many women experience shoulder problems or arm swelling after surgery to remove lymph nodes. This research looks at whether using a special digital system called OnTrack, which includes a smartwatch and smartphone, can help improve arm movement and reduce discomfort. The OnTrack system gives real-time feedback and remote support from physiotherapists. The goal is to see if this technology can lead to less pain, better arm movement, and an improved quality of life for patients. It’s also hoped to save patients money. The study will run from November 2024 to August 2025 at Imperial College London, funded by Imperial MedTechOne and Wellcome Trust.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Phase

Not Applicable

Sponsor

Imperial College London

Enrolment target

Start

30 Mar 2025

Estimated completion

30 Jun 2025

Shoulder disfunction post breast and axillary surgery

What is this study about?

When someone has breast cancer, surgery often involves taking out lymph nodes in the armpit. This is a common and important part of treatment. However, this surgery can sometimes lead to problems like shoulder pain, stiffness, or swelling in the arm (called lymphoedema). These issues can make it harder to do everyday tasks and affect a person's well-being.

This study wants to find out if a new digital system called OnTrack can help people recover better and faster. OnTrack uses a smartwatch and a smartphone to guide you through exercises and give you feedback straight away. It also connects you to a physiotherapist who can give you support remotely. The idea is to make arm rehabilitation easier and more effective for patients after their surgery.

By taking part, you could help doctors understand if this kind of wearable technology is a good way to support recovery. If it works well, it could mean less pain, better arm movement, and a higher quality of life for many other people going through similar surgeries in the future. It could also make rehabilitation more convenient and potentially save money for patients.

Key takeaways

This study explores using smartwatches and smartphones for arm recovery after breast cancer surgery.
It aims to reduce pain, improve arm movement, and boost quality of life.
You'll use a digital system called OnTrack for rehabilitation support.
It's for adults having sentinel node biopsy or axillary node clearance.
The study runs from November 2024 to August 2025.
Participation is voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time.

Who may be eligible?

To be part of this study, you need to be an adult, aged 18 or older. You must be having a specific type of breast cancer surgery that involves checking or removing lymph nodes from your armpit. This includes operations called sentinel node biopsy or axillary node clearance.

It's also important that you are able to understand and agree to take part in the study. If you have other serious health problems that are not stable, or if you already have a shoulder problem that affects your movement before your breast cancer surgery, this study might not be suitable for you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Are you scheduled for sentinel node biopsy or axillary node clearance surgery for breast cancer?
Do you feel well enough to participate in a study using wearable devices?
Do you understand what the study involves and agree to take part?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to join this study, you will use the OnTrack system. This involves wearing a smartwatch and using an app on your smartphone. These devices will help guide you through exercises for your arm and give you feedback as you do them. You'll also receive support from physiotherapists who can check on your progress remotely.

We anticipate that you will use this system from November 2024 until August 2025. The exact duration for each participant will be discussed with the study team. You won't need to take any new medicines as part of this study, and there won't be extra hospital visits purely for the study beyond your usual care.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could offer several benefits, such as less pain, improved arm movement, and a reduced chance of arm swelling (lymphoedema). We hope it will also lead to a better quality of life and potentially save you money on healthcare costs. The main risk involved is minimal discomfort from wearing the devices, but we expect this to be very minor. Remember, you can choose to stop participating in the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Charing Cross Hospital
Approximate
London, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is axillary surgery for breast cancer?

It's an operation to remove lymph nodes from your armpit to check if breast cancer has spread. This helps doctors decide on the best treatment for you.

What is lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema is swelling that can happen in the arm or hand after lymph nodes are removed. It's caused by a build-up of fluid.

Will I still get normal physiotherapy if I join?

The OnTrack system aims to support and enhance your rehabilitation. It works alongside your existing care, providing remote support and real-time feedback designed to help with your recovery.

Do I have to pay to join the study?

No, there are no costs for you to participate in this study. It is funded by Imperial MedTechOne and Wellcome Trust.

What if I change my mind about taking part?

You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without affecting your medical care.

How to find out more

Ahmed Latif

ahmed.latif@imperial.ac.uk +44 7903292540 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.