Study of an AI Tool to Predict and Communicate Arm Swelling Risk After Breast Cancer Radiotherapy in Women with Regional Lymph Node Treatment

What this Trial Is About

Radiotherapy for breast cancer can cause arm lymphedema, which is swelling that may lead to long-term discomfort and affect quality of life. This clinical trial is designed to assess whether an artificial intelligence AI tool that predicts individual risk of arm lymphedema after radiotherapy can help patients and doctors make better treatment decisions. The trial includes women aged 18 or older with breast cancer needing regional lymph node radiotherapy after surgery, regardless of hormone receptor or tumor status. Participants will be randomly assigned to two groups. In the experimental group, patients and physicians will see the AI-predicted risk through a web app that explains risk factors and suggests measures like compression sleeves. In the control group, this risk information will not be shared. Both groups receive the same radiotherapy treatment they would normally have, with no changes to dose or technique. The AI tool is evaluated only for its impact on decision-making and outcomes. Throughout two years, participants will have regular check-ups to track treatment choices, side effects, shoulder movement, breast appearance, quality of life, and the accuracy of the AI tools predictions. Researchers will also monitor how well patients follow recommendations for using compression sleeves, as well as cancer recurrence and survival. Questionnaires and clinical exams will be conducted at baseline, during treatment, and at multiple follow-up points to gather detailed information.

Arm Swelling Occurence in Breast Cancer Patients With Nodal Radiotherapy: Impact of Informing Them of AI-predicted Risk