Vein repair during cancer surgery may prevent disfiguring swelling

NCT ID NCT07694726

Not yet recruiting Disease control Sponsor: University of Pittsburgh Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 10, 2026 · Last updated Jul 14, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This trial tests whether repairing the facial vein during neck dissection can prevent lymphedema—painful swelling—in adults with head and neck cancer. Participants receive standard cancer surgery plus, if needed, immediate reconstruction of the facial vein. Researchers then compare swelling rates and quality of life to past patients who did not have the vein repair.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Facial vein reconstruction
What this could lead to: If it works, this could reduce painful swelling after head and neck cancer surgery, improving quality of life.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial without a control group, so results may not be conclusive. The procedure carries surgical risks like infection or graft failure.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

head and neck cancer Head and Neck Neoplasms lymphedema

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

HEAD AND NECK CANCER

Contacts and locations

Locations

UPMC Presbyterian Hospital and UPMC Shadyside Hospital

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15213, United States

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