Could fewer radiation sessions after surgery improve quality of life for head and neck cancer patients?

NCT ID NCT04403620

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests a shorter, more intense course of radiation therapy (hypofractionated IMRT) given after surgery for head and neck cancer. The goal is to see if it is safe and if it can help patients maintain better swallowing function compared to the standard longer radiation schedule. About 59 adults with certain types of head and neck cancer are being enrolled.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)
What this could lead to
If successful, this could offer a shorter, more convenient radiation schedule after surgery that preserves swallowing function better than standard treatment.
What could go wrong
This is an early-phase trial with only 59 participants, so results may not apply to all patients. Higher radiation doses could increase side effects.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

    Dallas, Texas, 75390, United States

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