New trial tests shorter radiation for head and neck cancer that has returned

NCT ID NCT03164460

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

Summary

This phase II trial compares two types of radiation for people whose head and neck cancer has come back and cannot be removed with surgery. One method delivers high-dose radiation in fewer sessions, while the other uses standard daily doses over several weeks. The study aims to see which approach causes fewer severe side effects and better controls the cancer. It includes 68 participants with small tumors who have already had radiation before.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Radiation therapy (stereotactic body radiation therapy or intensity-modulated radiation/proton therapy)

What this could lead to

If successful, this trial could show that a shorter, more precise radiation treatment is safer and works as well as standard radiation for people with recurrent head and neck cancer.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase trial that is currently suspended. It only includes people with small tumors who cannot have surgery, so results may not apply to everyone. Radiation to previously treated areas carries risks of severe side effects.

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 carcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • M D Anderson Cancer Center

    Houston, Texas, 77030, United States