* All times are based on Canada/Eastern EST.
Canada/Eastern
Start your day on the conference floor! Our team will standing by, ready to assist with registration, provide conference materials, and answer any questions. While you’re here, grab a coffee or tea, enjoy light morning refreshment selections, and take the opportunity to connect with others. You never know what interesting conversations you’ll spark before the sessions begin!
Canada/Eastern
Presenter: Prof. Kristiana Gordon Note : This Master Class is an Add-On that requires pre-registration. 📄 Learn more here: Master Class Details This Master Class will explore the complexity and nuance of diagnosing and managing primary lymphoedema, drawing on several decades of clinical experience at the St. George’s Primary Lymphoedema Clinic in London, UK. Professor Kristiana Gordon will share expert insights on the St. George’s Classification Algorithm of Primary Lymphatic Anomalies, providing attendees with practical strategies for recognizing subtypes, differentiating syndromic from non-syndromic presentations, and guiding effective clinical decision-making. Case examples will highlight the real-world challenges of working with this heterogeneous patient population and underscore the importance of multidisciplinary care. By the end of this session, participants will be able to: Describe the St. George’s classification algorithm and its clinical application in primary lymphoedema. Recognize key diagnostic indicators and subtypes of primary lymphatic anomalies. Apply case-based learning to improve clinical decision-making for patients with complex or atypical presentations.
Canada/Eastern
Join us in the plenary hall as we kick off the day with a warm welcome and brief opening remarks from conference leaders. These daily sessions will highlight key themes, provide important updates, and set the stage for the day’s program — helping you make the most of your ILF2025 experience.
Canada/Eastern
Presenter: Stanley G. Rockson, MD In this keynote address, Dr. Stanley Rockson shares the latest progress in the ongoing quest to develop a pharmacological treatment for human lymphedema, offering new insights from decades of pioneering research and clinical investigation.
Canada/Eastern
Canada/Eastern
8 parallel sessionsSession Chairs: Christine Moffatt, Anna Towers 1. Introduction to the ILA: What is the ILA aiming for? Presenters: Gabriele Erbacher (Germany), Ad Hendrickx (The Netherlands) 2. Lipedema-Syndrome - Separating Facts from Fiction. Presenters: Tobias Bertsch (Germany), Gabriele Erbacher (Germany) 3. Diagnosing Lipedema-Syndrome: What we have learned in Wales. Presenter: Melanie Thomas (Wales), Cheryl Pike (Wales) 4. Myths about liposuction for lipedema-syndrome - What is right and what is wrong? Presenter: Axel Baumgartner (Germany) Questions for the speakers (if time permits) Session Chairs with All Session Speakers
Presenters: Dr. S. R. Narahari, Prof. Linda Gibson, Lydia Kabiri, BSN MPH, Arthur Bagonza, PhD MPH This session explores challenges in lymphoedema care in low-resource settings and strategies to improve access, equity, and outcomes. Dr. S. R. Narahari - Scaling Life: Integrative Medicine for Lymphatic Filariasis Morbidity and Disability in India Highlights the “Scaling Life” project combining modern medicine, Ayurveda, and Yoga, treating 1,700+ patients across Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Outcomes include reduced limb volume, fewer cellulitis episodes, restored daily function, improved adherence, patient education, and stigma reduction. Prof. Linda Gibson - Building Equitable Global Partnerships for Lymphoedema Care: Lessons from the NTU-Makerere Collaboration Examines 15+ years of collaboration between Makerere University and Nottingham Trent University, highlighting lessons in building effective, sustainable, and equitable global partnerships. Lydia Kabiri, BSN MPH - Stakeholder Engagement for Lymphedema Management in Uganda: Insights and Implications for Community-Based Interventions Shares outcomes from Kampala stakeholder meetings with patients, Ministry of Health officials, village health teams, and academic partners, highlighting gaps in care, culturally sensitive interventions, and global-local collaboration. Arthur Bagonza, MPH, PhD - Adapting LIMPRINT Methodology for Low-Income Settings: Lessons from Uganda Discusses a prevalence study using adapted LIMPRINT methods with simplified screening, mobile data collection, and community sensitization. Findings (6.9% prevalence) offer lessons for integrating lymphoedema care into primary health systems in remote areas.
Explore a dynamic collection of cutting-edge oral abstract presentations, showcasing new research, innovative practices, and diverse global perspectives across the field of lymphoedema. Expand for full details of the abstracts being presented in this session.
Presenter: Wei F. Chen, MD FACS. Learning objectives: 1) Learn about LNVA, a new supermicrosurgical procedure showing highly favorable efficacy in treating lymphedema. 2) Learn about how LNVA works and how it compares with the conventional supermicrosurgery.
Presenter: Naomi Dolgoy, MOT, CLT, PhD, with Amy Beaith-Johnson, Lymphedema Self-Care Coach Badr El Bakkali El Kasmi, MD Discover accessible and empowering ways to stay active while living with lymphedema. This interactive session will explore how thoughtful movement can support function, comfort, and quality of life. Led by occupational therapist Naomi Dolgoy, with perspectives from both a patient and a physiotherapy PhD candidate, the discussion will be grounded in real-world experience and shared strategies.
Presenters: Nele Devoogdt, PT PhD & Els Brouwer This session will examine the essential role of compression in lymphoedema management, focusing on three key approaches: multi-component bandaging, compression garments, and adjustable compression wraps. Drawing on clinical experience and current practice, Prof. Nele Devoogdt and Els Brouwer will highlight common challenges and offer practical solutions to improve outcomes for individuals living with lymphoedema, offering real-world strategies to enhance effectiveness and support patient adherence to compression therapy.
Explore a dynamic collection of cutting-edge oral abstract presentations, showcasing new research, innovative practices, and diverse global perspectives across the field of lymphoedema. Expand for full details of the abstracts being presented in this session.
Explore a dynamic collection of cutting-edge oral abstract presentations, showcasing new research, innovative practices, and diverse global perspectives across the field of lymphoedema. Expand for full details of the abstracts being presented in this session.
Canada/Eastern
2 parallel sessionsTake a breather, mingle with peers, and visit our exhibitors during our mid-morning break. It's the perfect opportunity to discuss the morning's insights, see what's new in our Exhibition Hall, refresh, and energize yourself for the upcoming sessions.
Discover the latest research and clinical insights at the ILF2025 Poster Café — a dedicated space where delegates can browse our full selection of poster abstracts on sleek, interactive digital displays. Whether you have a few minutes between sessions or want to dive deeper into emerging topics in lymphedema and related disorders, the Poster Café offers a relaxed and engaging way to explore the work of colleagues from around the world. Grab a coffee, pull up a screen, and get inspired.
Canada/Eastern
8 parallel sessionsCo-Moderators/Chairs: Dr. Spencer Gibson, Dr. Siba Haykal Invited Panelists: Dr. Stanley Rockson, Dr. Joseph Dayan, Dr. Margaret McNeely, Session Description: Progress in lymphatic science increasingly depends on the ability to build diverse, collaborative, and patient-centred research teams. In this panel discussion, three internationally recognized leaders in lymphedema research — Dr. Stanley Rockson, Dr. Joseph Dayan, and Dr. Margaret McNeely — join co-moderators Dr. Spencer Gibson and Dr. Siba Haykal to share real-world strategies for assembling and sustaining multidisciplinary teams that bridge research, clinical practice, and patient engagement. Panelists will explore challenges and opportunities in funding, mentorship, and cross-sector collaboration, offering insights that can strengthen the future of lymphatic research globally. Audience participation is encouraged.
Explore a dynamic collection of cutting-edge oral abstract presentations, showcasing new research, innovative practices, and diverse global perspectives across the field of lymphoedema. Expand for full details of the abstracts being presented in this session.
Presenter: Vaughan Keeley, PhD FRCP Prof The breadth of work carried out by lymphoedema services has evolved considerably over recent years. Using examples from experience in the UK and Europe, this change will be described. Having initially focussed on treating cancer related lymphoedema, these services have evolved to treat patients with all types of primary and secondary lymphoedema and those with lymphatic and vascular malformations and overgrowth syndromes, together with those with lipoedema. This has been driven by unmet clinical need and has required the development of new skills and treatment options.
Presenters: Dr. David Keast; Heather Barnhart, PT PhD CWS This two-part session examines best practice recommendations for preventing and managing wounds related to lower limb lymphedema and explores the vital role of the lymphatic system in wound healing within an interdisciplinary framework. The Wounds Canada Best Practice Recommendation for the Prevention and Management of Wounds Related to Lower Limb Lymphedema Presented by Dr. David Keast Lower limb lymphedema often leads to chronic skin changes and ulcerations that significantly impact quality of life, increase infection risk, and challenge clinical management. In this session, Dr. David Keast will introduce the Wounds Canada Best Practice Recommendation for the prevention and management of wounds in individuals with lower limb lymphedema. He will outline the key evidence-based recommendations, discuss their practical application in clinical settings, and highlight strategies to prevent wound recurrence. Drawing on his extensive clinical and research experience, Dr. Keast will also explore the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, patient education, and early intervention to improve outcomes. Lymphatics Connection to Wound Healing and the Importance of Interdisciplinary Medicine Presented by Heather Barnhart, PT PhD CWS This session will explore the essential role of the lymphatic system in wound healing and highlight the importance of an integrated, interdisciplinary approach to care. With a focus on the interconnectedness of venous, arterial, integumentary, and lymphatic systems, the presentation will outline key concepts in microcirculation and lymphostatic dermopathy, and provide practical insights into collaborative strategies for improved tissue restoration. Learning Objectives: Appreciate the current understanding of the microcirculation and why all edema is lymphedema Understand the concept of lymphostatic dermopathy Recognize the interconnection of the body systems, specifically the VAIL (venous-arterial-integument-lymphatic) Describe the importance of interdisciplinary care to manage lymphedema and promote wound/tissue restoration
Presenter: Shelley DiCecco, PT, PhD, CLT-LANA, CI-CS. Living with lymphedema or lipedema presents not only physical and emotional challenges but also deeply personal ones, especially when it comes to intimacy. This presentation explores the often-overlooked impact these chronic conditions can have on body image, relationships, sexual health, and emotional well-being. This will include strategies for navigating vulnerability, advocating for needs, and fostering connection in intimate relationships. Attendees will leave with a greater understanding of how to support themselves or others in reclaiming intimacy, physically and emotionally, while living with lymphedema or lipedema. Objectives: By the end of this presentation, participants will be able to: 1. Identify the physical, emotional, and psychosocial challenges that lymphedema and lipedema can pose in intimate and sexual relationships. 2. Describe how body image, self-esteem, and stigma affect intimacy for individuals living with lymphedema and fat disorders. 3. Apply communication strategies that support healthy, respectful, and affirming intimate relationships. 4. Recognize evidence-based tools and approaches that can enhance physical and emotional intimacy in the context of chronic illness. 5. Demonstrate greater confidence in advocating for or supporting intimacy-related needs for themselves or others living with lymphedema or lipedema.
Chairs: Robert Damstra, Kristiana Gordon 1. Introduction to the ILA: What is the ILA aiming for? Presenters: Gabriele Erbacher (Germany), Ad Hendrickx (The Netherlands) 2. Diagnosing Lipedema-syndrome. Presenter: Melanie Thomas (Wales), Cheryl Pike (Wales) 3. Myths about liposuction for lipedema-syndrome - What is right and what is wrong? Presenter: Axel Baumgartner (Germany) 4. The Role of the Lymphedema Therapist in the Treatment of Patients with Lipedema-Syndrome. Presenter: Guenter Klose (USA) 5. Lipedema-Syndrome - Separating Facts from Fiction. Presenters: Tobias Bertsch (Germany), Gabriele Erbacher (Germany) 6. Questions for the speakers.
Explore a dynamic collection of cutting-edge oral abstract presentations, showcasing new research, innovative practices, and diverse global perspectives across the field of lymphoedema. Expand for full details of the abstracts being presented in this session.
Explore a dynamic collection of cutting-edge oral abstract presentations, showcasing new research, innovative practices, and diverse global perspectives across the field of lymphoedema. Expand for full details of the abstracts being presented in this session.
Canada/Eastern
2 parallel sessionsJoin us for a midday break where lunch will be served in the Exhibition Hall. This is a great chance to network, reflect on the morning's proceedings, visit with our exhibitors, and prepare for the afternoon's sessions.
Discover the latest research and clinical insights at the ILF2025 Poster Café — a dedicated space where delegates can browse our full selection of poster abstracts on sleek, interactive digital displays. Whether you have a few minutes between sessions or want to dive deeper into emerging topics in lymphedema and related disorders, the Poster Café offers a relaxed and engaging way to explore the work of colleagues from around the world. Grab a coffee, pull up a screen, and get inspired.
Canada/Eastern
Sponsored Lunch Symposium Presented by JOBST Don’t miss this dynamic and timely symposium sponsored by JOBST: “The Interplay Between Obesity, Lymphedema, and Lipedema Syndrome - From Challenge to Action.” Join a powerhouse panel of international experts as they dive into the complex relationship between obesity, lymphedema, and lipedema-syndrome. Anna Towers will set the stage with a Canadian perspective on obesity and its impact on lymphedema, including breast cancer-related lymphedema and diagnostic criteria for lipedema-syndrome. Then, Tobias Bertsch and Guenter Klose team up to explore the role of obesity in lipedema-syndrome and approaches to treatment — covering everything from compression therapy and movement to the psychosocial dimensions of weight and surgical considerations. This is an essential session for anyone seeking a deeper, more integrated understanding of the interplay between obesity, lymphedema & lipedema-syndrome and actionable strategies for care. Q&As will be taken during the first coffee break after the symposium where you can meet the experts at the JOBST booth. ⚠️ Please note: This Sponsored Symposium is reserved for professional delegates only. Patient delegates are warmly encouraged to enjoy lunch and the many activities in the Exhibit Hall during this time.
Canada/Eastern
8 parallel sessionsPresenters: Prof. Isabelle Quéré, Elodie Stasi, Arthur Bagonza, Prof. Christine Moffatt (CBE) Integration of psychosocial work among children with lymphoedema (Prof. Isabelle Quéré) This session highlights integrating psychosocial support into pediatric lymphoedema care, addressing stigma, bullying, anxiety, depression, and family stress. Holistic management through counselling, peer support, community sensitisation, and school inclusion fosters resilience and reduces stigma within multidisciplinary care. Experiences of running children’s camps with lymphoedema (Elodie Stasi) Children’s camps offer safe spaces for learning, bonding, and empowerment for children and families. Combining education on self-care, psychosocial support, recreation, and family engagement, camps also provide research opportunities on quality of life and self-efficacy. Despite logistical and emotional challenges, camps boost confidence, reduce stigma, promote resilience, and strengthen advocacy and health policy networks. Pilot results of a self-efficacy tool for professionals (Arthur Bagonza) The Professional Self-Efficacy Tool (PSET) captures healthcare professionals’ perception of their ability to support patient self-management. This session presents its development, validation, and potential to improve training and strengthen lymphoedema services worldwide. International perspective on the psychosocial impact of children and young people with lymphoedema (Christine Moffatt) This session presents findings from an international study on the psychosocial impact of lymphoedema in children and young people. Shared challenges of stigma, isolation, and emotional distress are explored alongside cultural differences, highlighting global best practices to guide child-centered care and policy interventions.
Presenters: Sandro Michelini, MD (Italy), Anna Towers, MD (Canada) Session Description: Access to appropriate lymphedema care continues to be a challenge around the world. This session offers two international perspectives on the systemic barriers and shared determination of patients, professionals, and advocates in improving care. The management of patients with lymphedema in Italy and worldwide Presenter: Sandro Michelini, MD (Italy)In many countries, patients with lymphedema face enormous difficulties in accessing care through public and private health systems. A lack of knowledge, errors in differential diagnosis, and the low consideration given to the damage caused by these diseases all result in reduced quality of life as well as high social and economic costs. This presentation outlines the institutional and regulatory steps that have allowed Italy to establish a more adequate welfare network across much of the country, and the future projects proposed to further improve care. The courage to carry on: comrades-in-arms in the fight for resources Presenter: Anna Towers, MD (Canada)Valuable opportunities arise during international meetings of national frameworks, such as this ILF conference. These gatherings allow us to share experiences, especially in recessionary times, when securing funding for new health care programs can feel like a struggle. Drawing on the Canadian context, this presentation shows how lymphedema framework partners step up in difficult times, reminding us that we are a true international community of patients, advocates, young professionals, and senior leaders.
Presenters: Robert J. Damstra, MD PhD; Vaughan Keeley, MD; Kirsten van Duinen, MD Over the past 10 years, expert centres across Europe have strengthened their collaboration—sharing knowledge, exchanging experience, and enhancing cross-border healthcare for patients from all EU states. Dr. Damstra will present the work of this international group, which now includes representatives from more than nine countries, bringing together both healthcare providers and patient advocates. Through monthly meetings, the group discusses patient cases via a secure European platform (CPMS), works to improve patient care, advances research, and develops care standards for primary lymphedema. Building on this overview, Dr. Vaughan Keeley will share new pediatric results in primary lymphedema, offering insights into outcomes and clinical experiences in younger patients. Dr. Kirsten van Duinen, dermatologist at the Nij Smellinghe Hospital Center of Expertise for Lymphovascular Medicine, will highlight patient awareness and communication strategies, showcasing innovative tools developed to support both patients and healthcare providers. Further information can be found on the EU-supported website: www.vascern.eu
Chairs: Gabriele Erbacher , Ad Hendrickx 1. Genetics in lipoedema - results and ongoing research Presenter: Kristiana Gordon (UK) 2. Insights form Lymphedema health care professionals managing lipalgia syndrome / lipedema; a service evaluation Presenter: Melanie Thomas (Wales) 3. HRQoL of females living with lipoedema compared with bilateral leg lymphoedema Presenter: Rhiannon Stellmaker (Australia) 4. Comprehensive needs assessment for enhancing self-management in people with lipoedema and the support provided by their health care providers Presenter: Lise Maren Kloosterman (Netherlands) 5. Questions for the speakers
Presenters: Catharine Bowman, BHSc, PhD Candidate, Juliana Conte, PhD, Lori Radke, PT CLT. There are many uncertainties associated with lymphedema; however, there is little consensus to guide prioritization of addressing these uncertainties within the field. This in-person roundtable session is intended to address this gap. We aim to amalgamate and critically assess lymphedema-related care gaps identified by lymphedema stakeholders in an in-person roundtable discussion format at the conference. The roundtable session will be collaboratively led by facilitators involved in the lymphedema community. Topics of uncertainty will be compiled in advance of the conference and used to guide each table discussion. At the conference, we propose the review of these topics to select and establish a prioritization list for future care development in the realm of lymphedema. Planned Activities: At the conference, a roundtable discussion will occur to identify the benefits and challenges associated with each category of uncertainty to establish a standardized list of lymphedema-related priorities. This patient-centered approach ensures that future lymphedema care is informed by a variety of perspectives, especially those of the patients themselves. Intended Outcomes: The ultimate goal of this session is to establish a community-informed standard of care priorities for the global lymphedema community. We plan to disseminate this work through presentations to lymphedema organizations as well as written format for community use.
Presenter: Dr. Joseph Dayan GLP-1 receptor agonists are widely known for their role in treating diabetes and obesity—but could they also play a groundbreaking role in lymphedema care? In this timely and thought-provoking session, Dr. Joseph Dayan shares early findings from prospective trials exploring the potential of GLP-1s to reduce swelling and improve symptoms in patients with lymphedema. The session will explore key data, clinical implications, and what this could mean for the future of conservative and surgical treatment pathways.
Explore a dynamic collection of cutting-edge oral abstract presentations, showcasing new research, innovative practices, and diverse global perspectives across the field of lymphoedema. Expand for full details of the abstracts being presented in this session.
Explore a dynamic collection of cutting-edge oral abstract presentations, showcasing new research, innovative practices, and diverse global perspectives across the field of lymphoedema. Expand for full details of the abstracts being presented in this session.
Canada/Eastern
2 parallel sessionsTake a breather, mingle with peers, and visit our exhibitors during our mid-afternoon break. It's the perfect opportunity to discuss the morning's insights, see what's new in our Exhibition Hall, refresh, and energize yourself for the upcoming sessions.
Discover the latest research and clinical insights at the ILF2025 Poster Café — a dedicated space where delegates can browse our full selection of poster abstracts on sleek, interactive digital displays. Whether you have a few minutes between sessions or want to dive deeper into emerging topics in lymphedema and related disorders, the Poster Café offers a relaxed and engaging way to explore the work of colleagues from around the world. Grab a coffee, pull up a screen, and get inspired.
Canada/Eastern
Presenter: Kristiana Gordon, MBBS FRCP CLT MD(Res) FHEA. Drawing from years of frontline experience, this keynote explores the complexities of managing the most challenging lymphoedema cases. Dr. Kristiana Gordon will share clinical insights, hard-earned lessons, and moments of triumph that highlight the resilience of patients and the evolving tools that make progress possible.
Canada/Eastern
Wrap up your conference day with our closing remarks session, where conference leaders will reflect on key insights, share highlights from the day, and provide a preview of what’s to come. It’s a chance to reconnect, celebrate progress, and stay informed as we build momentum throughout ILF2025.
Canada/Eastern
Join us for a relaxed and welcoming reception to celebrate the first day of the Patient Conference! Enjoy coffee, tea, and dessert—or visit the cash bar—as you connect with fellow delegates, exhibitors, and friends. A perfect way to unwind, share experiences, and enjoy the spirit of community that defines ILF2025.
