Can MRI spot radiation damage in the mouth? new study aims to find out

NCT ID NCT06586892

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Aug 14, 2026 · Updated 3 times

Summary

This study will test whether special MRI scans can accurately detect and track damage to the mouth and jaw caused by radiation therapy for head and neck cancers. Researchers will enroll 300 adults undergoing radiation, with some receiving additional MRI scans before and after treatment. The goal is to validate MRI as a reliable tool for diagnosing osteoradionecrosis, a serious complication, and to improve monitoring of soft tissue health.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: MRI scan
What this could lead to: If successful, this could provide a reliable way to detect and monitor mouth and jaw damage from radiation, helping doctors treat it earlier.
What could go wrong: This is an early validation study, not a treatment trial. The MRI method may not prove accurate enough for routine use, and results may not apply to all patients.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

head and neck cancer mouth disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ORODENTAL INJURY

Contacts and locations

Locations

The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center
RECRUITING

Houston, Texas, 77030, United States

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