New MRI technique aims to spare saliva glands during cancer radiation

NCT ID NCT07278557

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This Phase 2 trial tests whether using MRI to map saliva ducts before radiation therapy can reduce dry mouth in people with oropharyngeal cancer. About 98 participants will be randomly assigned to standard radiation planning or a new approach that spares the parotid ducts. The main goal is to see if patients report less dry mouth six months after treatment.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: MRI sialography and parotid duct sparing radiation therapy planning
What this could lead to: If successful, this approach could reduce chronic dry mouth after radiation for head and neck cancer, improving quality of life for many patients.
What could go wrong: This is a small Phase 2 trial (98 people) at one center, so results may not apply broadly. The benefit over standard care is uncertain, and dry mouth may still occur.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

head and neck cancer Head and Neck Neoplasms oropharyngeal carcinoma

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

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Department of Radiation Oncology
RECRUITING

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, United States

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