Direct, local cell transplants have been tested for effects on cancer-related lymphedema. Stromal cells obtained from the bone marrow are stem cells that can differentiate into various cell types, potentially including lymphatic cell types. In the process of stromal cell transplantation, autologous stromal cells were transplanted around the axillary region and affected areas of the chest wall in patients who had previous breast cancer surgery and radiation therapy to evaluate effect on lymphedema. Stem cell transplants have also been tested for this purpose.