Adipose-derived regenerative cells and fat grafting for treating breast cancer-related lymphedema: Lymphoscintigraphic evaluation with one year follow-up

Background: Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is a feared late complication. Present treatment options are lacking. Recent studies have suggested that mesenchymal stromal cells can alleviate lymphedema. Herein, we report the results from the first human pilot study with adipose-derived regenerative cells (ADRC) for treating BCRL with one year follow-up. Material and methods: We included ten BCRL patients. ADRCs were injected directly into the axillary region together with a scar releasing fat graft procedure.