Vectra 3D Imaging for Measuring Upper Limb Lymphedema | Dr. Daniel Gould

Dr. Daniel Gould co-authored this study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, examining whether three-dimensional imaging could provide an accurate and practical method for measuring changes in upper limb volume in patients with lymphedema.

Upper extremity lymphedema can develop following lymph node removal during cancer treatment, resulting in persistent swelling caused by impaired lymphatic drainage. Accurately measuring changes in limb volume is important for assessing the condition and tracking a patient's response to treatment.

Traditional methods such as water displacement and circumference measurements can present practical limitations. Water displacement may be time-consuming or unsuitable for certain patients, while tape measurements can be affected by differences in technique and may not fully capture variations in the shape of the limb.

Dr. Gould and his co-authors investigated the Vectra 3D imaging system as an alternative approach. By creating three-dimensional representations of the upper extremity, the technology allows limb volume and morphology to be assessed digitally and noninvasively.