Study Comparing Proton and Photon Beam Radiotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer

Sponsor: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Sponsor score: 60
Inactive

ClinicalTrials ID:NCT02923570

Provider View

This clinical trial is comparing two types of radiation therapy, proton beam radiotherapy (PBRT) and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), to see which is more effective and has fewer side effects for treating head and neck cancer.

Patient Parameters

Program Overview

This study aims to compare two different types of radiation treatments for head and neck cancer: proton beam radiotherapy (PBRT) and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). PBRT is believed to expose surrounding healthy tissues to less radiation than IMRT, which might result in fewer side effects. However, this has not been thoroughly studied. The research will determine if PBRT is better, the same, or worse than IMRT in terms of effectiveness and side effects.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

  • Must be 18 years or older.
  • Have a confirmed diagnosis of one of the following cancer types:
    • Salivary gland cancer
    • Skin cancer
    • Melanoma
  • Have head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) that requires radiation on one side of the neck.
  • Be eligible for radiation therapy on one side of the neck.
  • Have a Karnofsky performance status score of 70 or higher, indicating the ability to care for oneself with some assistance.
  • Women of childbearing age (under 51) must have a negative pregnancy test.

Exclusion Criteria

  • Have had previous radiation treatment to the head or neck.
  • Require radiation treatment to both sides of the neck as recommended by a doctor.
  • Have cancer that cannot be surgically removed.
  • Require radiation to the mucosal areas as recommended by a doctor.

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