Imaging the lymphatic vessels in the arm using advanced devices

This University of Auckland study aims to uncover how fluid travels through the lymphatic vessels of the arm using two advanced imaging techniques. By gathering detailed images from healthy volunteers, researchers hope to develop computer models that can predict, prevent, or improve the management of lymphoedema, a condition involving swelling that can occur after cancer treatment. Your participation will directly support research that may benefit future patients.

Participation involves one appointment lasting about 1½ hours at the Auckland Bioengineering Institute. This will include a short survey and simple measurements such as height, weight and arm size; after which you will have two safe imaging procedures on one of your arms.

1. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): A small scanner is placed on the arm to take detailed images under the skin using light. It’s painless and non invasive.
2. Indocyanine Green (ICG) imaging: You’ll receive four tiny dye injections in the hand/wrist so we can see how lymph fluid moves up the arm. Your skin is cooled first to reduce discomfort of the injections, and special cameras capture the images.

Participants receive a $50 koha to thank you for your time.

If you would like to know more about this study or to apply, we would love to hear from you:

Hayley Reynolds
Senior Research Fellow
Email: hayley.Reynolds@auckland.ac.nz

Recruitment ends: 31 May 2026