Prevention of postsurgical lymphedema via immediate delivery of sustained-release 9-cis retinoic acid to the lymphedenectomy site.

Animals receiving 9-cis RA sustained-release implants at the time of surgery had improved lymphatic function and structure, indicating reduced lymphedema progression. Thus, we demonstrate that 9-cis RA contained within a single-use depot DDS has favorable properties in limiting pathologic responses to lymphatic injury and may be an effective strategy against secondary lymphedema.