Can a simple drink reduce surgery complications in head and neck cancer?

NCT ID NCT04449445

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

Summary

This study looked at whether giving head and neck cancer patients a special nutritional supplement (Nestle IMPACT AR) before and after major surgery could lower the chance of wound problems like infections or poor healing. Only 4 people took part, and researchers tracked complications such as wound infection, seroma, and fistula. The goal was to see if better nutrition around the time of surgery could improve recovery.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Nestle IMPACT AR (a specialized nutritional supplement)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a simple dietary supplement that helps prevent wound infections and other complications after major head and neck cancer surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early study with only 4 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The supplement may not reduce complications as hoped.

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.

head and neck cancer Head and Neck Neoplasms

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Illinois at Chicago

    Chicago, Illinois, 60612, United States