Can a fat flap reduce neck pain after cancer? small study aims to find out

NCT ID NCT05889091

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This pilot study tests whether a buried free fat flap surgery can safely reduce neck problems like pain, stiffness, and swallowing trouble in people treated for head and neck cancer. Twelve adults who need a salvage neck dissection will receive the fat flap procedure. Researchers will track complications and measure quality of life through questionnaires.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: buried free fat flap (surgical procedure)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could offer a new surgical option to reduce long-term neck problems like pain, stiffness, and swallowing difficulty after cancer treatment.
What could go wrong: This is a very small pilot study with only 12 people, so results may not apply to everyone. The surgery itself carries risks like infection, blood clots, or flap 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 squamous cell carcinoma Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Head and Neck

As listed by the trial registrant

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

HEAD AND NECK SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (All Protocol Activities)
RECRUITING

New York, New York, 10065, United States

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