Scientific Programme

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!

Meals, Breaks, Exhibition, Transitions

Presented by Dr. David Keast Note : This Master Class is an Add-On that requires pre-registration. 📄 Learn more here: Master Class Details Chronic wounds present a complex and costly challenge, consuming up to half of home care budgets in some healthcare systems. Effective management hinges on early identification of infection and a comprehensive approach to wound bed preparation. In this essential Master Class, internationally respected wound care expert Dr. David Keast will guide participants through the latest evidence-based strategies for assessing and treating wound infections, drawing on the 2022 Consensus Document from the International Wound Infection Institute. Whether you're in acute care, community practice, or long-term care, this session will deepen your clinical confidence and sharpen your skills in managing wound infections. Learning Objectives: Identify the underlying and contributing factors that increase the risk of wound infections. Understand the bacterial continuum and the clinical implications of biofilm in chronic wounds. Recognize the signs and symptoms associated with varying levels of bacterial burden. Apply key strategies for managing wound infections, including debridement, therapeutic cleansing, and appropriate use of antimicrobial therapies. Explore the principles of antibiotic stewardship and its role in wound care practice.

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema
Add-On Workshops & Master Classes

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.

Open Stream - Suited to All Attendees

Presenter: Heather H. Ferguson, Founder and Executive Director of the Lymphedema Advocacy Group. Learn how a grassroots effort led to significant improvements in insurance coverage for compression garments in the United States, and how your voice can make a difference in your own community and country.

Open Stream - Suited to All Attendees

Take a quick, 15-minute break following the opening keynote before joining your first session of the day.

Meals, Breaks, Exhibition, Transitions

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.

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema

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.

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema
Abstract Presentations (Oral)

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.

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema

Chairs: Kathy Francis, Tobias Bertsch 1. The of role of imaging and body composition in diagnostics and therapy of lipedema Presenter: Belinda Thompson (Australia) 2. The Role of the Lymphedema Therapist in the Treatment of Patients with Lipedema-Syndrome Presenter: Guenter Klose (USA) 3. More than meets the eye: Phenomenological insights into the functioning of people with lipedema Presenter: Lise-Maren Kloosterman (The Netherlands) 4. New, interdisciplinary and multimodal: The Lipedema Therapy Model of the ILA Presenter: Gabriele Erbacher (Germany)

Professional Stream - Lipoedema

Presenter: Ad Hendrickx, PT, PhD. Living with lymphedema is a lifelong journey — but you don’t have to walk it alone. In this inspiring session, international lymphedema expert Ad Hendrickx will share how a personalized approach to care can empower individuals to gain greater control, and acceptance, potentially leading to an improvement of the quality of life. Discover how the Subjective Health Experience (SHE) model, in combination with the Lymph-ICF can help you better understand your unique experience and needs. Learn how this insight can strengthen collaboration between you and your care team, leading to a support plan that truly fits you — your life, your goals, and your health.

Patient Stream - Lymphoedema

Presenters: Susan Nørregaard, Christine Moffatt. Living with lymphoedema or lipoedema can increase the risk of wounds and infections — but with the right knowledge, these can often be prevented or managed effectively. In this practical and empowering session, specialist nurse Susan Nørregaard and Professor Christine Moffatt will share key information, prevention strategies, and real-world advice to help patients recognize warning signs early, care for their skin, and confidently manage complications when they arise.

Patient Stream - Lymphoedema

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.

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema
Abstract Presentations (Oral)

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.

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema
Abstract Presentations (Oral)

Take 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.

Meals, Breaks, Exhibition, Transitions

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.

Open Stream - Suited to All Attendees
Abstract Presentations (Posters, Digital Display)

Presenters: Prof. Christine Moffatt, with Mark Collier, Nursing Consultant. This session marks the official launch of a major new international resource on the management of chronic oedema in the lower leg, jointly developed by the European Wound Management Association (EWMA) and the International Lymphoedema Framework (ILF). The document expands on existing treatment principles by reflecting the clinical realities across different countries. It provides clear recommendations for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment—including compression therapy—and long-term management. What makes this resource unique is not only its clinical guidance but also its inclusion of patient perspectives, practical pathways, and global applicability. Building on the success of the 2023 EWMA document Lower Leg Ulcer Diagnosis and Principles of Treatment, this new publication offers a comprehensive approach designed to improve patient care worldwide. In addition to introducing the joint document, Prof. Christine Moffatt will also provide an update on the Global LIMPRINT project, an international study mapping the prevalence and impact of chronic oedema and lymphoedema across healthcare systems. To learn more, preview the project with this short video: Watch on YouTube

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema
Open Stream - Suited to All Attendees

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.

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema
Abstract Presentations (Oral)

Presenter: Francesco Boccardo, MD, PhD, FACS (Italy) Presentation: Lymphatic surgery: indications and results Presenter: Dr. Francesco Boccardo (Italy) Description: Lymphatic surgery has advanced significantly over the past two decades, offering new opportunities for both the treatment and prevention of lymphedema. In this session, internationally renowned surgeon Dr. Francesco Boccardo will share his extensive experience in the field, including insights into surgical indications, techniques, and outcomes. Drawing on his pioneering work in procedures such as the LYMPHA technique, Dr. Boccardo will highlight how surgical innovation is reshaping care for patients at risk of or living with lymphedema.

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema

Presenter: Prof. Spencer Gibson, PhD. Lymphedema currently has no effective treatments beyond addressing symptoms. As the Endowed Chair for Lymphatic Disorders, I have developed a translational research program to develop new therapeutic strategies for lymphedema. My learning objectives are listed below. 1. Describe a translation research program 2. Describe changes in the lymphedema microenvironment. 3. Develop therapeutic strategy to treat and/or prevent lymphedema

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema

Presenter: Ad Hendrickx, PT, PhD Presenter: Amy Beaith-Johnson, Certified Yoga Instructor In this session, Ad Hendrickx, physiotherapist by background, will explore the impact of psychological strain (distress), experienced by individuals with chronic conditions such as lymphedema. Drawing on the expertise of healthcare psychologist Annemarieke Fleming, this presentation offers a scientific understanding of persistent fatigue, persistent pain, and challenges with treatment adherence often seen in patients with significant distress. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how to recognize and effectively address distress and its negative repercussions, equipping them with greater awareness and actionable insights. To complement this presentation, Amy Beaith-Johnson, certified yoga instructor specializing in adaptive and therapeutic practices, will guide participants through a short, accessible yoga-based mindfulness practice. This interactive component offers a practical strategy to reduce stress and promote well-being — adaptable for all abilities and settings.

Patient Stream - Lymphoedema

Chairs: Belinda Thompson, Gabriele Erbacher 1. More than meets the eye: Phenomenological insights into the functioning of people with lipedema-syndrome Presenter: Lise-Maren Kloosterman (The Netherlands) 2. Weight management in lipedema: If and when does weight loss help? Presenter: Kathleen Francis (USA) 3. Nothing about us, without us. Presenter: Betsie van Dort, patient representative NLNet. (Netherlands) 4. From what we know now - How should lipedema-syndrome be treated? Presenter: Anna Towers (Canada), plus Session Chairs and Speakers for integrated Q&A

Patient Stream - Lipoedema

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.

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema
Abstract Presentations (Oral)

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.

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema
Abstract Presentations (Oral)

Join 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. Please note that this is the final chance to visit with our Exhibitors.

Meals, Breaks, Exhibition, Transitions

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.

Open Stream - Suited to All Attendees
Abstract Presentations (Posters, Digital Display)

Sponsored Lunch Symposium Presented by medi Els Brouwer, Chair of the Dutch Association for Physiotherapy in Lymphology & Oncology will begin this lunchtime symposium by introducing and explaining COMPAS - the Compression Asia-Pacific (APAC) Summit and the future of compression therapy in this region and Europe. Arthur Bagonza, Public Health Consultant Makerere University, Uganda will then outline the experience of building regional lymphedema care pathways in the APAC-region from a multistakeholder perspective. Finally, Prof. Dr. med. Christian Taeger, specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery and hand surgeon, Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics at the Isar, Munich, Germany will detail the multidisciplinary approach to the management of lymphedema, providing insight into the treatment methods at each stage of disease progression, from super-microsurgery to liposuction and back again. ⚠️ 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.

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema
Professional Stream - Lipoedema
Industry Sponsored Symposia

Presenters: Melanie Thomas, PT, MBE, DProf, FCSP ; Victoria Jones, National Lead Dietitian Lymphoedema Wales This session explores the development of a Nutritional Programme within the Lymphoedema Wales Clinical Network, driven by data intelligence and clinical insight. A key focus is the emerging role of sarcopenic obesity in the management of lymphoedema—a condition increasingly recognised for its impact on patient outcomes. By integrating findings from a healthcare professional (HCP) education needs analysis on nutrition with the outcomes of a patient group nutrition intervention, the session will: • Highlight current gaps in clinical practice, • Showcase the value of data-informed programme design, and • Identify future opportunities for enhancing lymphoedema care through targeted nutritional strategies.

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema
Open Stream - Suited to All Attendees

Presenter: Susan Nørregaard, RN DH. This session will explore evidence-informed strategies for managing complex wounds in patients living with chronic oedema and lymphoedema. Attendees will gain practical insights into treatment options, challenges in wound healing, and key considerations for individualized care in this often-overlooked patient population.

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema

Presenters: Els Brouwer, Elizabeth Webb, Pinar Borman. Brouwer: The birth of the APAC Lymphoedema Framework. Webb: Compression and cellulitis: presenting the way forward. Borman: Progress on the Erasmus+ grant: education for professionals treating children with Lymphoedema. This session will spotlight two major international initiatives led by the International Lymphoedema Framework (ILF) and its partners. First, Els Brouwer and Elizabeth Webb will provide an update on COMPAS (Compression APAC Summit), a groundbreaking new collaboration between the ILF, the Japanese Society of Phlebology, and medi GmbH. Bringing together experts from across the Asia-Pacific region and Europe, COMPAS has created a platform for advancing compression therapy, tackling barriers to access, and shaping a patient-centered Global Compression Consensus Documents (for surgery and cellulitis). The summit also marked the beginning of efforts to establish an APAC Lymphoedema Framework, strengthening regional and global collaboration in lymphoedema care. Next, Pinar Borman will introduce the Erasmus+ SAMPLE Project, an initiative of the Turkish Lymphoedema Framework with ILF as co-applicant. This project focuses on improving care for children with paediatric lymphoedema through the development of an accessible, evidence-based e-learning programme for healthcare professionals. By enhancing training and knowledge, the project aims to close critical gaps in paediatric lymphoedema care across Europe and beyond. Together, these updates highlight the ILF’s expanding global reach and its role in shaping the future of lymphoedema care through education, collaboration, and policy change.

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema

Chairs: Guenter Klose, Belinda Thompson 1. The role of compression in lipedema-syndrome Presenter: Robert Damstra (The Netherlands) 2. Weight management in lipedema: If and when does weight loss help? Presenter: Kathleen Francis (USA) 3. The Subjective Health Experience model and self-management Presenter: Ad Hendrickx (The Netherlands) 4. From what we know now - How should lipedema-syndrome be treated? Presenter: Anna Towers (Canada) Questions for the speakers (if time permits) Session Chairs withAll Session Speakers

Professional Stream - Lipoedema

Presenter: Gabriele Erbacher, MSc ECP ECH; Susan Witt, BAppSc (OccThy); MBA. Living with a chronic condition like lymphedema can be demanding. Concerns about body image, lack of confidence, fears about the condition, or a pessimistic outlook can all contribute to stress. For some people with cancer-related lymphedema, post-traumatic symptoms after cancer treatment may add an additional layer of difficulty. On top of this, integrating necessary therapies into daily routines can feel overwhelming. In this session, two experienced healthcare professionals — a psychologist and an occupational therapist — will guide you in exploring these challenges. They will share practical tools and strategies you can use in everyday life to make living with lymphedema more manageable and to support living fully with the condition.

Patient Stream - Lymphoedema

Presenter: Dr. Siba Haykal An overview of lymphatic surgical options and considerations for access and candidacy. Surgery for lymphedema holds promise — but it’s not a magic fix. In this honest and informative session, Dr. Siba Haykal outlines the current surgical options available in Canada and abroad, explores who may be a candidate, and shares key insights on the benefits, risks, and limitations of surgery. The goal is to equip patients with balanced, evidence-informed information to support their decision-making and advocacy.

Patient Stream - Lymphoedema

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.

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema
Abstract Presentations (Oral)

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.

Professional Stream - Lymphoedema
Abstract Presentations (Oral)

Take a quick, 5-minute break before heading to the Plenary Hall to take part in the closing ceremony.

Meals, Breaks, Exhibition, Transitions

Join us for a celebratory finale to ILF2025 during our Closing Ceremony. We’ll honour outstanding contributions with awards and prizes, reflect on the highlights of an inspiring three days, and offer a sneak peek at what’s ahead for the International Lymphoedema Framework. Don’t miss this opportunity to gather with colleagues one last time, celebrate our global community, and look forward to the next chapter.

Open Stream - Suited to All Attendees