Reducing dry mouth after head and neck cancer treatment using MRI techniques.

A Phase II Randomized Assessment of Sparing Parotid Ducts via MRI Sialography for Reduced Patient Reported Xerostomia

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10780160

This study is looking at a new way to help reduce dry mouth for people getting radiation therapy for head and neck cancer, by trying to protect the salivary glands during treatment, so that patients can feel better and enjoy life more after their therapy.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-10780160 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new approach to minimize dry mouth (xerostomia) in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. By using MRI sialography, the study aims to spare the parotid ducts during treatment, which may help preserve salivary function. Patients will be randomly assigned to receive either the standard treatment or the new technique, allowing researchers to compare outcomes. The focus is on improving the quality of life for patients who often suffer from severe side effects after treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with HPV-associated head and neck cancers who are scheduled to undergo radiotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing radiotherapy or those with non-HPV-related head and neck cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of dry mouth in patients, enhancing their overall quality of life post-treatment.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar techniques to reduce treatment-related toxicities, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.