In a conversation with CancerNetwork®, Kandace P. McGuire, MD, and Paschalia Mountziaris, MD, PhD, highlighted the use of L-Dex bioimpedance spectroscopy as a method for detecting lymphedema earlier in patients who undergo surgery for breast cancer. The experts discussed seamlessly integrating this novel modality into standard vitals workflows and detailed other considerations for improving long-term survivorship outcomes via proactive lymphatic care.

McGuire began by breaking down why detection of lymphedema typically occurs later after its development, describing how a sentinel lymph node biopsy and additive radiation can cause lymphatic damage and obstruction that correspond with symptoms months to years down the road. At her institution, bioimpedance spectroscopy, the use of a small electrical signal measuring “bioimpedance”, is employed at various points before and after breast cancer surgery to easily determine the likelihood of developing lymphedema through a nursing visit. According to Mountziaris, having a noninvasive method like this provides a “valuable tool” for informing patients of their risks of experiencing lymphedema.

The experts also discussed a need to develop a more nuanced method for detecting potential lymphedema among patients with a higher body mass index and spoke about fostering communication across the breast surgery oncology team, the plastic/reconstructive team, and physical rehabilitation specialists to monitor abnormal fluid changes in patients. Looking ahead, they emphasized making bioimpedance spectroscopy more accessible as a key goal in lymphedema care.

“We are privileged that McGuire and I have a great team and that I have the equipment that we’re able to provide these things for our patients. From my standpoint, some of these patients appear—to me, by measurements, and everything else—to have been cured of their lymphedema after these interventions,” Mountziaris stated. “Getting an L-Dex score on them is just another way to demonstrate that we did bring them to stage 0 or no lymphedema.”

McGuire is professor of surgery and chief of breast surgery at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Massey Cancer Center. Mountziaris is assistant professor of surgery in the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at VCU Massey Cancer Center.

Reference

VCU Massey now offers new technology for early detection of lymphedema. News release. December 8, 2025. Accessed January 14, 2026. https://tinyurl.com/2ktfzf5k