GPS for surgeons: new navigation tool aims to improve head and neck cancer outcomes

NCT ID NCT05671458

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

Summary

This study tests a navigation system that helps surgeons remove head and neck tumors more precisely. During surgery, the system creates a 3D map of the tumor and its edges, which is then used to plan follow-up radiation therapy. The goal is to reduce the chance of leftover cancer cells and improve local control. The trial will enroll 60 patients with midface or skull-base tumors.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

intraoperative navigation and tumor resection maps

What this could lead to

If successful, this could make head and neck cancer surgery more precise, reducing the chance of leftover tumor and improving radiotherapy planning.

What could go wrong

This is a small early-phase trial with only 60 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The technique is new and its benefit over standard surgery is not yet proven.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

adenoid cystic carcinoma head and neck cancer head and neck carcinoma Head and Neck Neoplasms head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Department of Radiotherapy, University of Heidelberg

    RECRUITING

    Heidelberg, 69120, Germany

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••