Gunn Ammitzbøll, MSc PT, PhD, is a postdoc at Danish Cancer Society Research Center and Danish Research Center for Equality in Cancer (COMPAS). Her current work involves epidemiological and interventional research in cancer survivorship, and in particular in women’s health, late effects after cancer including cancer related lymphedema and exercise oncology.

She is a board member of the Danish Society of Physical Therapists in Oncology and Palliation where her work mainly evolves around professional education and development. Further, she is currently involved in the work with national clinical guidelines in breast cancer rehabilitation.  
 

Abstract: An explorative trial of pressure chamber treatment in early breast cancer-related lymphedema

Jean-Paul Belgrado, Professor, MSc, PhD, has extensive clinical experience in the Physiology, pathophysiology, and innovative physical treatment of lymphoedema. From 2009, his contribution of research, knowledge and skills have contributed to firmly secure the usefulness of near infrared lymphofluoroscopy imaging in the study, detection, diagnosis, and treatment of lymphoedema.

He is author of numerous publications, patents, and international presentations, and has been working for 35 years as a Researcher, Inventor and teacher in the field of lymphology.

He is visiting Professor of different universities and collaborates with clinical centres specialised in lymphedema diagnosis and treatment.

He is initiator and co-founder of public health lymphedema treatment projects.

He is co-founder and President of the Scientific Committee of BeLymph (Belgian branch of ILF)

He is Honorary Member of the Czech Society of Lymphology and member of the International Society of Lymphology.

Abstract: ICG - Near-Infrared Fluorescence Lymphatic Imaging

Susan is a Clinical nurse specialist in wound healing at Bispebjerg University Hospital in Copenhagen.

Together with Professor Finn Gottrup and other collaborators, she established the Copenhagen Wound Healing Center in 1996, the first multidisciplinary center in Denmark.

Education and research are the main topics Susan works on. Since 2003, she has been a course leader and teacher in a long-term continuing education for nurses with an interest in patients with wounds and for wound treatment.

Susan has, together with colleagues, got this education into the post graduate education for healthcare professionals in Denmark. Susan teaches on these modules.

In terms of research, Susan has worked with Skin tear, prevention of pressure ulcers both followed by implementing of prophylactic initiatives. 

Susan has been a board member of the Danish Wound Healing Society for many years and has been chairman of the association for the last 5 years.

Tobias Bertsch, MD, PhD has been a senior consultant at the Foeldi Clinic in Hinterzarten, Germany since 2005, specializing in lymphology and bariatric medicine. He also serves as Secretary General of the German Society of Lymphology.

Dr. Bertsch is one of only two physicians in Germany who consults in an outpatient setting approved by the health insurance commission with patients who have lymphedema and lipedema. Dr. Bertsch and his team consult with approximately 4000 patients per year.

In 2012, Dr. Bertsch earned Specialist Certification of Obesity Professional Education (SCOPE), the only internationally-recognized certification in obesity management for health care professionals. 

He lectures extensively throughout Germany but also in other European countries, Canada and the United States. 

Abstract: Paradigm shift in Lipoedema and New International Consensus Document on Lipoedema

Abstract: Concensus on Compression of Lipoedema

Pınar Borman MD Professor of PMR & Algology, after graduated from Ankara University Medical Faculty Dr Borman has received her Physical-Medicine-and-Rehabilitation (PMR) speciality from Hacettepe University in 1998.

She has been Associate-Professor in 2003 and Professor in 2012.

She has received her Algology PhD in 2011. Dr. Borman is a certified lymphedema specialist (Norton-School –of-Lymphatic-Therapy-2013). She is founder member and chair of Anatolian(Turkish) Lymphedema Association.

She has also formed Hacettepe University Lymphedema Research and Practice Center and was head of this organization. Currently she is working in University of Health Sciences, Ankara City Rehabilitation Hospital.

She is consultant of cancer rehabilitation ward and lymphedema Unit, and responsible physician of inpatient lymphedema service. Her interest areas are cancer and lymphedema rehabilitation, pain medicine, geriatric rehabilitation and kinesio-taping (CKTP). She is also executive member of ‘Turkish Society of PMR’ and ‘Turkish Society of Living with Osteoporosis’ .

Abstract: Bandaging of Genital Lymphedema

Abstract: Therapeutic Education in Lymphedema

Håkan Brorson, MD, PhD is Senior Consultant Plastic Surgeon at the Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden.

He is Professor of plastic surgery at Lund University, Lund, Sweden. American National Board Exam 1983. Board certified in Medicine, MA and Faculty License, BIDMC, Harvard Medical School, Boston, 2005 - 2006.

His research is focused on adipose tissue in lymphedema: CT, MRI/Spectroscopy and DXA, microarray, RT-PCR, metabolomics, lipidomics, incidence of erysipelas. He has trained 42 teams around the world to treat lymphedema with liposuction, a treatment that he developed over 30 years ago.

Abstract: From Lymph to Fat – Lessons Learned During 25 Years of Complete Reduction of Lymphedema

Cheryl Brunelle, Associate Director of the Lymphedema Research Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Physical Therapy Clinical Specialist, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA.

Cheryl earned her physical therapy degree at the University of Toronto, Canada. She completed her lymphedema certification with Drs. Albert and Olivier Leduc in London, England, and with Klose Training, in Boston, USA.

Cheryl’s clinical focus is on the evaluation and treatment of patients during and after breast cancer treatment, for issues such as surveillance and early intervention for lymphedema, shoulder morbidity, and deconditioning resulting from breast cancer and its treatment. Cheryl’s main research interests include risk factors, prospective surveillance, symptoms and early intervention for breast cancer-related lymphedema

Abstracts: A Proposed Diagnostic Pathway for Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema (BCRL)​

Ewa Anna Burian is a MD and PhD fellow at the Department of Dermatology and Wound Healing Centre in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Previous and current research activity includes being the investigator of eight clinical studies, and the author of multiple scientific papers, book chapters and guidelines within wounds and chronic oedema. Her clinical and research interest is in venous leg ulcers, inflammatory wounds, and in chronic oedema and related complications.

Dr. Burian is in the board of education for the Danish Wound Healing Society, and will present data on the epidemiology of cellulitis in chronic oedema (LIMPRINT), recently published in a high-impact journal.

Abstract: Cellulitis data from LIMPRINT

Corrado Cesare Campisi

MD & Specialist Plastic Reconstructive Aesthetic Surgery – Univ Genova

PhD Experimental Surgery Microsurgery – Univ Pavia

Master Reconstructive Microsurgery – European School

Adjunct Professor Plastic Reconstructive Aesthetic Surgery – Univ Catania

Private Consultant Plastic Reconstructive Aesthetic Surgery

Executive Committee: International Society Experimental Microsurgery – ISEM

Abstract: The New Era of the Minimally Invasive Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Procedures in the Best Practice for the Long-Lasting Recovering Cure of Lymphedema & Lipedema

Corradino Campisi

MD, PhD, Specialist Vascular-General Surgery Genova-Emergency Surgery Modena

Univ Full Prof General Surgery Genova, 2004-2018

Director Lymphatic Surg, Univ Hosp San Martino, Genova, 2005-2018

Fellow: Italian Society Surgery SIC

Past President: Italian Society Microsurgery

Chairman: ISL PastPresident AdvBoard

Honors: MD H.C. Professor H.C. Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Abstract: The comprehensive & effective treatment of Lymphedema and Related Disorders

Marina Cestari graduated in Medicine and specialized in Angiology.  

She is head of the Angiology out-patients’ Department and Territorial Rehabilitative Operative Unit, in charge of lymphoedema patients, for NHS-Terni-Italy and responsible for “Pianeta Linfedema” Study Centre.

She is one of the founders and member of the Executive Committee of the Italian Lymphoedema Framework and member of the Executive Committee of the European Society of Lymphology.

She has participated as a lecturer in university masters, refresher courses and training in the lymphological field, published numerous papers, has been speaker at national and international conferences and mentored experimental theses on lymphoedema. 
 

Abstract: Self-management & self-efficacy tools
 

Andrea Cheville is Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and PMR Department Chair at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. She received her MD degree from Harvard Medical School in 1993 and her Master of Science in Clinical Epidemiology degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 2006.

Areas of clinical and research interest are lymphedema and cancer rehabilitation, palliative medicine, and patient-reported outcomes.

She is board-certified in PMR, Pain Medicine, and Palliative Care.

She has received funding from the NIH, National Cancer Institute, and the U.S. Department of Defense.

She was elected to the National Institute of Medicine in 2016. 

Abstract: A palliative approach to cancer-related lymphoedema

Abstract: Compression in end of life and advanced disease

Ellen has congenital multi-segmental primary lymphoedema with systemic involvement.

Growing up with her condition she felt isolated and struggled to accept her condition. After undergoing successful and intensive treatment, she felt enabled to manage her lymphoedema better and learn to finally accept her lymphoedema diagnosis.

Ellen firmly believes in the importance of supporting confidence, acceptance and self-management techniques within the lymphoedema community.

Ellen is currently studying Medicine at Cardiff University and firmly believes in effective education and awareness of lymphoedema across medical education. Ellen joined the ILF Board of Directors in June 2019.

Abstracts: 'View on living with primary lymphoedema and managing compression' and 'My compression story'

Joanne Cooper, Professor, is Assistant Director of Nursing at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (NUH) and Head of Nursing Research – Research Transformation at NHS England and NHS Improvement.

Joanne holds honorary Professorial positions at the University of Nottingham and Coventry University.

Joanne has experience in advancing research in nursing, including clinical academic career development, which was recognised as an ‘exemplar’ outcome in NUH’s recent ANCC Magnet® accreditation. She has led the development of a strategic plan for skin integrity at NUH and a programme of front-line leadership known as Shared Governance.

Joanne clinical background is as a registered nurse, specialising in the care of patients with Gastrointestinal disease, and was awarded her PhD in Nursing in 2009 from the University of Nottingham.  Joanne’s doctoral study comprised a mixed methods study exploring beliefs about personal control and self-management in Inflammatory Bowel Disease and she continues research into long term condition self-management, cancer survivorship and palliative care.

Abstract: Using the ILF wound COM in a skin integrity model in Nottingham, UK 

Misako Dai, PhD, RN, CLT,  is a nursing scientist who is specializing with lymphedema. She is an associate professor of Research Center for Implementation Nursing Science Initiative, School of Health Sciences, Fujita Health University in Japan.

She conducted the assessment methodology for lymphedema management by ultrasonography (https://researchmap.jp/misakodai?lang=en) and will implement it to clinical field. Also, she has been played a role of a secretariate of International Lymphoedema Framework Japan, then she contributes to the international collaborative projects for LIMPRINT, ILF-COM and children QOL.

Her academic activities are represented by Fujita Health University’s & International Lymphoedema Framework Japan’s websites and her official twitter

Abstract: Tele-workshop of ultrasonography for assessing skin and subcutaneous tissue of lymphoedema patients 

Robert J. Damstra works since 1992 as dermatologist at the Nij Smellinghe hospital Drachten (Netherlands) in a team with 6 dermatologists, 2 surgeons and many paramedical specialists. 
In 2009 he obtained his PhD with the thesis “diagnostic and therapeutical aspects of lymphedema” at Maastricht University (Prof. Dr. P. Steijlen).

In 2005 he founded the Dutch expert center for lympho-vascular diseases (ECL).

 He was chair of the first (2003) and second (2014) Dutch guideline working group on lymphedema. In 2023 the third guideline is planned.
 
He is chair of the primary and pediatric working group (PPL-WG). Together with expert centers all over Europe they cooperate to enhance crossborder healthcare, improve quality of care and provide information for patients in Europe.

Finally, he is member of the European Lipoedema Forum and worked with other under the lead of T. Bertsch MD PhD  on the European consensus document for lipoedema.
 

Abstract: Lipedema and pain 

Yoav Dori is an attending pediatric interventional cardiologist and Director of the Jill and Mark Fishman Center for Lymphatic Disorders at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine.

Their team has discovered the lymphatic role in handful of complex diseases affecting patients with CHD including chylothorax, plastic bronchitis, and PLE.

Their work is centered on developing new lymphatic imaging and interventional techniques and to clarify the role of the lymphatic system in diseases affecting pediatric patients and to better understand the interface between the lymphatic and cardiovascular system.

Abstract: Imaging and interventions for lymphatic flow disorders in children

Jan Douglass has been involved in lymphoedema management for over 2 decades, with roles spanning therapist, teacher, client and researcher.

More recently Jan’s work with people affected by lymphatic filariasis- and podoconiosis-related lymphoedema has influenced the delivery of national programs in several low- and middle-income countries. 

Abstract: Lymphoedema self-care in resource poor settings - challenges for people affected by filariasis- and podoconiosis-related lymphoedema in rural Bangladesh and Ethiopia.

Ellie is a Registered Adult Nurse with a clinical background in Dermatology. She works within the Research and Innovation stream of the Institute of Excellence at Nottingham University Hospitals Trust.

Ellie is currently completing her PhD in Business and Management (Health) Within CHILL, at the University of Nottingham Business School, exploring the coproduction of care for service-users living with chronic oedema, within a context of socioeconomic deprivation

Ellie’s clinical role focusses on evidence-based practice and skin integrity. She is the vice-chair of the NUH Evidence-based Practice council and leads the annual NUH Evidence in Nursing, Midwifery and ODP course.

Abstract: Validation of the ILF wound COM in the UK

Alison Edgley is a qualitative sociological researcher interested in gender, embodiment and emotional labour as they apply to health care organisation and maternal wellbeing.

Alison is interested in a range of qualitative methods in sociological research, including interviews, critical discourse analysis and ethnography, as well as standpoint and critical realist epistemologies. She has also published extensively on the work of Noam Chomsky.

In her most recent research she has written on embodiment in pregnancy guides, maternal presenteeism and emotional labour in A&E.

She teaches and researches at the University of Nottingham (since 2002) and has supervised 15 PhD students to completion, with a further 7 underway.  Eight have had ESRC doctoral scholarships. Topics range from Oedema care pathways, mental health (recovery narratives, peer workers, spirituality, friendship), as well as courage and compassion in care, Alison is Director of an MA in Research Methods (Health) and her recent teaching is mostly research methods

Abstract: Teaching and learning self-management: findings from an ethnography of a lymphoedema summer camp

Gabriele Erbacher has been a psychologist and psychotherapist at the Foeldi Clinic- European Center of Lymphology - in Hinterzarten, Germany, since 2013. Her special working fields are the psychological assessment and treatment of obese patients within the obesity program. In this multimodal program severe obese patients who suffer from lymphoedema as well as from lipoedema are being prepared for bariatric surgery.

Furthermore, she is a specialist for the treatment of patients suffering from lipoedema. In the Foeldi Clinic she has implemented the first psychotherapy group for lipoedema patients that complements the comprehensive therapeutic approach.

She also is a member of the European Lipoedema Forum, which is the international expert group that created a consensus on the diagnostics and treatment of lipoedema which was published in February 2020.

Gabriele is the co-author of the article series about Lipoedema - Myths and Facts that has been published together with Dr. Tobias Bertsch and she is lecturing worldwide about lipoedema.

Abstract: Psychosocial aspects of lipoedema

Abstract: Improving Compliance in Compression

Consultant for metabolic and bariatric surgery at the Center for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical Center, University of Freiburg.

Abstract: Thigh volume in patients with lipoedema following bariatric surgery

Isabel Forner-Cordero, MD, Specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Working in the Lymphedema Unit in University Hospital La Fe, VALENCIA., since July 2000.

Associate professor at University of Valencia

Abstract: Phenotypes of Lipoedema

Peter Franks is a post-doctoral scientist with interests in health science, epidemiology and health economics.  He is a director of The Centre for Research & Implementation of Clinical Practice (CRICP) alongside Christine Moffatt.

The Centre has developed particular expertise in the problem of chronic wounds, and more recently lymphoedema and its management. 

Peter is a past president of the European Wound Management Association, and an honorary board member of the International Lymphoedema Framework, having served on the board for eight years.

He has contributed to many research papers on lymphoedema, including a number of papers in the Limprint special editions of Lymphatic Research & Biology in 2019 and 2021.

Abstract: Wounds and chronic oedema: New evidence from the LIMPRINT study

Kristiana Gordon is a Consultant in Dermatology & Lymphovascular Medicine.

She is Clinical Lead of the Lymphoedema Service at St George’s Hospital, London where her team cares for thousands of patients with lymphoedema and lipoedema from across the UK.

She has completed specialist dermatology training and a doctorate in primary lymphoedema, and continues to pursue her research interests within the rapidly developing field of lymphovascular medicine and lipoedema

Abstract: Genital lymphoedema: diagnostic and management considerations

Abstract: The St George’s Classification Algorithm of Primary Lymphoedema

Sandi Hayes, Prof, is a Senior Research Fellow at the Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia.

Her expertise in epidemiology and exercise science has enabled a cancer survivorship program of research, which has improved understanding of the physical and psychosocial concerns experienced during and following treatment for cancer (in particular, lymphoedema), as well the role of exercise in the prevention and management of these concerns.

Abstract: Prevalence, incidence, and risk factors of cancer-related lower-leg lymphoedema

Ad is specialized in lymph- and lipedema, geriatric related problems and chronic diseases. Related to chronic diseases his main focus is the group of patients with cancer related disabilities.

As a researcher and board member of the for Center of Expertise Lymphovascular Medicine he is responsible for education and research & development.

One of his main achievements in the last couple of years was the introduction and implementation of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health in daily care in the Expert Centre and their network of care, including the use of clinimetrical instruments. Self-management and the empowerment of patients is another of his main fields of interest.

Ad was member of the working group for the development of the Dutch guidelines for lymphedema and lipedema in 2013 and 2014.

Since September 2016 he is a PhD student at the Hanze University of applied sciences in Groningen. His research topics are related to lymph- and lipedema.

Since 2018 he has been closely involved in the development of the European consensus document on Lipedema.

Abstract: Physio- and movement therapy for the lipoedema patient

Pernille is a patient with primary lymphoedema. She holds a Graduate Diploma in Marketing Management and works as an independent consultant.

Having lived in four European countries and experienced the different health care systems and how patients are managed with this condition she is now an international patient advocate.

Via different social media platforms, she aims to inform, empower, connect and support patients and their families from all over the world.

Pernille is a board member of the patient driven Danish Lymphoedema Association (DALYFO), a delegate on the Scientific and Technical Committee of the Italian Lymphoedema Framework (ITALF) and the ePAG (European Patient Advocate Group) co-chair of the Pediatric and Primary Lymphedema Working Group (PPL-WG) in VASCERN (the European Reference Network of Rare Multisystemic Vascular Diseases). 

Abstract: Infections - the experiences, the fear and the solutions from a patient point of view

Vibeke Elisabeth Hjortdal, MD, DMSC, ph.D.

Cardio-Thoracic Specialist

Professor (Congenital Heart Surgery) and consultant surgeon, Dept Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark

Abstract: Lymphatic dysfunction in Congenital Heart Disease

Karl Hocking heads a national interdisciplinary team of lymphoedema specialists with specific training in the management of lymphoedema in children and young people (CYP) for Lymphoedema Network Wales.

He draws on years of experience as an occupational therapist within paediatrics and mental health, blending this into his specialist training in the paediatric and family field.

Karl’s passion is around engagement, shared decision making, education and collaboration, reflecting his background as a keen sportsman and rugby player. His mission is to improve CYP lymphoedema care….enabling families…empowering young people….making therapy fun for CYP and families.

Abstract: Helping children live well with lymphoedema

Abstract: The biggest barrier to self-management is me

Wouter Hoelen, MSc lymphology & Oncology VUB, is one of the founders of the Berekuyl.

The Berekuyl is a multidisciplinary treatment facility for lymphoedema, lipoedema and other chronic conditions. The Berekuyl also has an academy for oedema physiotherapy and oncology physiotherapy.

With seeing allot of patients dealing with secondary lymphoedema related to cancer, his interest became more focused on their specific needs. Hence the need for oncology physiotherapy was further explored and in 2012 the first students started their study in this specific field.

As from today more than 650 oedema and oncology-physiotherapist are graduated at the Berekuyl academy.

Abstract: Cancer-related head and neck lymphoedema: Treatment techniques

Abstract: International Classification of Functioning (ICF) core set lymphoedema, what's next?

David H. Keast BSc(Hon), MSc, DipEd, MD, CCFP, FCFP(LM) is the Medical Director of the Chronic Wound and Lymphedema Consultation Clinic at the Parkwood Institute in London Canada.

He is Clinical Adjunct Professor of Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University (London).

Dr. Keast is an Associate Scientist, Lawson Health Research Institute, Parkwood Institute Research.

He is Co-director of the Canadian Lymphedema Framework, Secretary Board of Directors of the International Lymphedema Framework and President of the World Alliance for Wound and Lymphedema Care.

Abstract: Clinical cases of wounds with lymphoedema

Vaughan Keeley, Prof, PhD, FRCP is a Consultant Physician who specialises in lymphoedema. 
He leads the lymphoedema service in Derby, Nottingham and Mansfield, in the East Midlands  of the UK. The service treats all types of lymphoedema / chronic oedema in adults and children. 

In 2020, the service was designated as a “Comprehensive Centre of Excellence for Lymphatic Diseases” by LE&RN (the Lymphatic Education and Research Network).

His research interests include the early detection and possible prevention of Lymphoedema in Breast Cancer and quality of life in Lymphoedema 

He is an Honorary Professor at the University of Nottingham Medical School. 
 

Abstract: Comparison and contrast of different techniques and methods of assessment in lymphoedema

Guillaume Mahe is professor of Vascular Medicine in the University hospital of Rennes.

He did his medical school in Rennes. Then worked at the University hospital of Angers followed by a Post-doctoral fellowship at The Mayo Clinic (Rochester MN, USA).

His research interest is lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD). He has published more than 100 hundred papers referenced in Pubmed.

He is currently member of the French Society of Vascular Medicine in which he is President of the Scientific Committee of this Society. Finally, he is in the Editorial board of Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine and Vascular Medicine journals.

Abstract: Diagnostic challenges in assesing PAD and lymphoedema with complex wounds

Michelini Sandro, Medical Doctor, is the author of the texts “Theoretical-Practical Manual of Vascular Rehabilitation” and ‘Phlebolymphology: from diagnosis to the therapy’.

He is professor for over 50 courses of Theoretical-Practical Vascular Rehabilitation for more than 25 years.

He is Medical officer of the Vascular Rehabilitation Day Hospital of the hospital San Giovanni Battista of Rome since 2006, medical officer of the O.U. Vascular Rehabilitation at the Vaclav Vojta Rehabilitation Center in Rome since 2003.

He is past president of the European Society of Lymphology (2008-2014), past president of International Society of Lymphology (2017-2019), President of the Italian Lynmphoedema Framework.

He is present Chief of Vascular Rehabilitative Service of Marino Hospital – ASL Roma6

Abstract: Lipedema: A genetic disease to know better

Abstract: The achievements and lessons learned from conducting LIMPRINT in Italy

Professor Christine Moffatt CBE, FRCN PhD MA RGN DN is Professor of International Clinical Nursing at Nottingham Trent University, UK, and Emeritus Professor at the University of Nottingham, UK.

She is also a Nurse Consultant at Copenhagen Wound Healing Centre, Denmark.

She is also nurse consultant at the Royal Derby Foundation NHS Trust Lymphoedema service in which she leads a research team as well as undertaking a clinical consultancy role.

Christine is currently Chair person of the International Lymphoedema Framework. She has been involved in wound healing research and practice for 25 years and Lymphoedema for 10 years. She has undertaken extensive research in this field using mixed research methods including running national and international clinical trials.

Her areas of research include compression therapy; service development and evaluation; psychosocial impact of disease; chronic wounds and lymphoedema. She has presented and published internationally.

She was awarded a CBE in the 2006 New Year’s Honours List and made a life fellow of the Royal College of Nursing that same year. She has received several life time achievement awards in recognition of her work, the most recent being presented by the World Union of Wound Healing Societies in June 2008. In December 2008 she received a Nursing Times Diamond 20 Award as one of the 20 most influential nurses in the last 60 years.

Abstract: An international study to explore the challenges faced by the medical device industry in the development and reimbursement of compression therapy

Karen Morgan is a registered nurse by background. She was appointed the National Lymphoedema Education lead in Wales in 2012 and is Deputy to Dr Melanie Thomas National Clinical Lead for Lymphoedema in Wales. She has been pivotal in developing and delivering accredited lymphoedema education in Wales utilising Agored work based credits.

In 2016 she led the on the ground clinical educators project funded by the Welsh Government Health Technology and Innovation Fund. Developing jointly The Chronic Oedema “Wet Leg Pathway” as an output. Awarded the British Journal of Nursing Chronic oedema Nurse of the Year for this work in 2018.

Abstract: Wet Leg Pathway

Abstract: Compression and me!

SR Narahari, practising dermatology from 1990 in Kasaragod, Kerala, leads integrative medicine research, collaborations, and patient-centred care and education to meet the needs of Lymphatic Filariasis, Lymphedema and chronic dermatoses.

He pioneered clinician-led bed-side integrative medicine by combining therapeutics of ayurveda with biomedicine. He is among the world’s leading lymphoedema experts and published 85 research papers.

The Institute of Applied Dermatology that he founded in 1999, is among the leading lymphoedema clinic in the world and recognised as a primary destination for lymphatic filariasis, secondary lymphedema and breast cancer-related lymphedema treatment in South-East Asian countries.

Current research project is the World Health Organization commissioned clinical audit of integrative medicine practice 

Abstract: Integrating idiopathic and allopathic approaches in lymphoeema management

Abstract: Approaches to managing genital oedema: The Indian perspective

Rhian is National Researcher for Lymphoedema Network Wales, Associate Lecturer for Swansea University, Wales and programme lead for postgraduate lymphoedema education University of Glasgow, Scotland.

Her PhD produced The Asset-Based Collaborative Working model from action research of lymphoedema specialists developing an information website for patients, carers and health professionals in the community.

Her recent research has focussed on education need evaluation and genital oedema. She developed the first genital oedema specific self-report tool for men (LGUCQ) and will be presenting results of an international study of the education need of lymphoedema professionals to manage genital oedema.

Abstract: Presentation of results from new report and new film

Abstract: Exercise and movement

Electra D. Paskett, Ph.D., Marion N. Rowley Professor of Cancer Research at The Ohio State University, is the Director of the Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, College of Medicine.

Professor in the Division of Epidemiology in the College of Public Health, and the Associate Director for Population Sciences and Community Outreach and Co-Program Leader of the Cancer Control Program in the Comprehensive Cancer Center of the Ohio State University (OSU).

She is Founding Director, Center for Cancer Health Equity at the James Cancer Hospital and Director of the Cancer Control Program of the Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology.

Abstract: Prospective Surveillance for Patients at Risk of Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema: Limb volume, function and quality of life results

Cheryl had the privilege of growing up in South Africa where she qualified as a physiotherapist in 1997.

She immigrated to Wales in 2000, and undertook her lymphoedema training in 2004. Since then Cheryl has become a qualified Casley-Smith MLD instructor, has completed her Doctorate in Professional Practice looking at the use of 3D technology in assessing people with upper limb lymphoedema, and continues to participate in a variety of research projects.

Cheryl leads the therapeutic support for lymphoedema surgery in Wales, and has a special interest in connective tissue and how damage to fascia impacts on the lymphatics.

Abstract: Using ICG scanning in supporting Lymphoedema Management

Abstract: Skin care and massage

Abstract: Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome and related disorders

Abstract: Managing children with Primary Lymphoedema – an update

Abstract: Compression use and Peripheral Arterial Disease

Jørgen Rungby serves as Chief Physician and Professor at the Department of Endocrinology, Bispebjerg Hospital and University of Copenhagen, Denmark.

Jørgen Rungby graduated as MD in 1984, specialized in internal medicine and endocrinology and, in 1990, completed his doctorate in neuroscience.

He is past chairman of the Danish Endocrine Society and has served on national and international committees and boards within the field of endocrinology.

He has supervised more than 25 PhDs and authored or co-authored more than 220 publications. More recently, his research focuses on metabolic and hormonal regulation of central nervous system functions in diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases.

Abstract: Lipoedema from an endocrinological point of view

Junko Sugama, PhD, RN, Professor, is a nursing scientist who is specializing chronic edema and wound care. In this year, she established the Research Center for Implementation Nursing Science Initiative, School of Health Sciences, Fujita Health University in Japan and a professor and a director of it.

In her career history for over 20 years, she has been published around 300 original articles of basic and clinical research.

Until today, she leads all academic activities of international collaborative projects on behalf of International Lymphoedema Framework Japan. Furthermore, she is a chief editor of Lymphoedema Research and Practice.

Abstract: Tele-workshop of ultrasonography for assessing skin and subcutaneous tissue of lymhoedema patients

Martina Sykorova Bc., Mgr., MA, MRes, has a background in public health and has been researching chronic oedema and chronic wounds since 2014.

Martina’s current research is looking into the evaluation of a care pathway for patients with chronic oedema and wet legs treated in the community.

Martina has joined the International Lymphoedema Framework as a trustee in 2019.

Abstract: ILF Outcome Measures project (ILF-COM)

Professor of Radiation Oncology, Harvard Medical School, Breast Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Director, Lymphedema Research Program,

Dr Alphonse Taghian is Professor of Radiation Oncology at Harvard Medical School and Director of the Lymphedema Research Program at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. He earned his Medical Degree from Alexandria University in Egypt. He completed his residency in Radiation Oncology in France, after which he pursued his PhD in Radiobiology from Paris University.

An internationally recognized leader in breast radiation oncology and lymphedema research, Dr Taghian has published more than 200 peer reviewed articles, general reviews and chapters. He has edited 2 books.  He was awarded several NIH grants totaling around $2.7 Million for research in breast cancer related lymphedema.

Abstract: The Myths and the Evidence in Lymphedema: Precautionary Measures After Treatment for Breast Cancer

Melanie is a Chartered Physiotherapist and is the National Clinical Lead for Lymphoedema Services in Wales, UK. She was instrumental in developing equitable lymphoedema services in Wales and now manages the award winning Lymphoedema Network Wales.

Melanie qualified as a lymphoedema teacher in 2005 as part of the Macmillan Lymphoedema Education Programme and leads on the education programme in Wales, delivering MLD and lymphoedema advanced update courses.

Melanie has been the principal investigator in numerous research trials in lymphoedema. She has just submitted her Doctorate with Swansea University on the lymphoedema risk reducing recommendations for people treated for breast cancer. She has presented and published widely in delivering innovations in lymphoedema care.

Melanie is currently the Programme Manager for the delivery of the Lymphatic Venous Anastomosis super microsurgery development and the national Paediatric Services in Wales.

In 2012, Melanie became the first Macmillan Cancer Fellow. In 2013 was awarded a MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours. In 2014, she was presented with a Distinguished Service Award by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy and in 2015 was awarded a Fellowship by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Melanie joined the Board of Directors for the International Lymphoedema Framework in June 2018.

Abstract: ICG scanning: The gateway for Lymphatic Venous Anastomosis

Abstract: Value Based Lymphoedema Healthcare and the creation of LYMPROM (Lymphoedema Patient Reported Outcomes)

Abstract: Taking control in my lymphoedema appointment

Nestor Torio, Dr., Prof., completed his residency training in plastic and reconstructive surgery at the Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Germany, and worked there as attending for further six years.

Due to an intensive cooperation during this time with the Földi Clinic in Germany, Prof. Torio has 12 years´ experience in the conservative and surgical treatment of lymphological diseases and lipoedema syndrome.

Since 2015 he practices in a self-founded Clinic for Plastic Surgery in Freiburg and is specialized among others in the surgical treatment of lipoedema patients. As a faculty member Prof. Torio additionally teaches at the Medical School of the University of Freiburg.

Abstract: Consensus of the European lipoedema forum: Liposuction for the treatment of lipoedema, yes, but…

Prof Miikka Vikkula MD, PhD, Professor, obtained the M.D. degree at the University of Helsinki in 1992 and Ph.D. in molecular genetics, in 1993. He was a Research Associate at Harvard Medical School 1993-1997, during which time he became interested in vascular and lymphatic anomalies.

With his wife, Prof Laurence M. Boon, Plastic Surgeon, Co-ordinator of the Vascular Anomaly Center, Brussels, the couple discovered the gene for familial venous malformation in 1996, and since then many others. They settled in Brussels in 1997, where Dr Vikkula developed his own laboratory. He obtained a thèse d’aggrégation / "docentship PhD" in 2000 from UCLouvain, and was nominated Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Medicine.

He is a member of the Directorate of the de Duve Institute since 2004, and a full professor of Human Genetics since 2013. He has received numerous honours and awards, including the Inbev-Baillet Latour Clinical Prize in 2013, and the first Belgian Generet Award for rare disease research 2019.

He is a Member of the Royal Belgian Academy of Medecine since 2012. Prof Vikkula’s research led to the identification of first somatic mutations as explanation for sporadically occurring vascular anomalies, generation of first ever animal model for vascular malformations, and proof of concept treatment with small molecular inhibitors.

Clinical trials are now being conducted with various molecules in various countries. Prof Vikkula is well-known internationally as a major contributor to the understanding of molecular basis of vascular anomalies and lymphedema with >160 peer-reviewed publications, >50 reviews and chapters in major medical text books, and over 20,000 citations with an H-index of 73 (Google scholar).

Abstract: Genetics of primary lymphoedema: An update