Reducing unnecessary surgeries for low-risk thyroid cancer patients

A Pilot Feasibility Study of an Intervention to Decrease Overtreatment of Low-risk Thyroid Cancer

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10895437

This study is looking to help people with low-risk papillary thyroid cancer by giving them clear information about their treatment choices, so they can talk with their doctors and feel confident in choosing less invasive options instead of having unnecessary surgery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-10895437 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to address the issue of overtreatment in patients with low-risk papillary thyroid cancer, where many undergo unnecessary total thyroidectomy. The study introduces an intervention called CQUPLE, which provides patients with clear, evidence-based information about their treatment options and encourages them to engage in discussions with their healthcare providers. By enhancing patients' understanding and decision-making capabilities, the research seeks to empower them to choose less invasive treatment alternatives. The pilot will involve a randomized controlled trial with 50 patients across three clinic sites.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with low-risk papillary thyroid cancer who are considering treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with high-risk thyroid cancer or those who have already undergone treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the number of unnecessary surgeries and associated complications for patients with low-risk thyroid cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that patient education and decision aids can effectively reduce overtreatment in various medical conditions, suggesting a promising avenue for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.
Conditions Cancer Survivor
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.