Tiny gold seeds could sharpen radiation for spine tumors

NCT ID NCT01624220

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

Summary

This study tested whether implanting tiny gold markers near spinal tumors helps deliver radiation more accurately. Researchers also checked if giving slightly more radiation to the nearby esophagus is safe, which might improve tumor control. The study involved 41 adults with various cancers that had spread to the spine.

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 (spinal SBRT) with gold seed implants

What this could lead to

If successful, this could lead to more precise radiation delivery for spinal tumors, potentially improving tumor control while keeping side effects manageable.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase study with only 41 participants, so results may not apply broadly. Higher radiation doses to the esophagus carry risks like inflammation or injury.

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.

breast neoplasm digestive system neoplasm melanoma Neoplasms, Unknown Primary non-small cell lung carcinoma prostate cancer renal cell carcinoma sarcoma spinal cord cancer spinal cord neoplasm Thyroid Neoplasms

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

    Houston, Texas, 77030, United States