Improving PET/CT scanning for better treatment of head and neck cancer

A PET/CT scanner for guiding treatment of head and neck cancer

NIH-funded research West Virginia University · NIH-11085117

This study is working on a new, affordable PET/CT scanner that helps doctors find and understand small tumors in patients with head and neck cancers better, so they can make smarter treatment choices and help reduce side effects.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWest Virginia University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Morgantown, United States)
Project IDNIH-11085117 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new type of PET/CT scanner specifically designed to enhance the treatment planning for patients with head and neck cancers. By creating a lower-cost and high-resolution imaging system, the research aims to improve the detection of small tumors and assess their characteristics more accurately. This innovative approach could lead to better treatment decisions and potentially reduce the side effects associated with current therapies. Patients will benefit from more precise imaging that can guide their treatment options effectively.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with head and neck cancers, particularly those with HPV-associated tumors.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers located in other regions of the body or those who do not have head and neck cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized treatment plans for patients with head and neck cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in improving imaging technologies for cancer treatment, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Morgantown, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.