3- vs 4-fraction high-dose-rate brachytherapy for cervical cancer

Brachytherapy Fractionation Individualized by Treatment Feasibility in Cervical Cancer: Phase II Trial Comparison of 3 vs 4 Fractions (BRACHY-FIT).

Phase 2 Interventional Stanford University · NCT07022470

This will test whether a three-fraction high-dose-rate brachytherapy schedule works as well as the standard four-fraction schedule for adults with locally advanced cervical cancer.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment41 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorStanford University Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Palo Alto, California)
Trial IDNCT07022470 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This is a prospective, non-randomized Phase II single-center trial at Stanford comparing a 3-fraction HDR brachytherapy regimen to the standard 4-fraction regimen in patients receiving definitive treatment for locally advanced cervical cancer. Eligible adults (ECOG 0-2) with histologically confirmed cervical cancer who can undergo MRI and consent are enrolled. Participants receive either three or four HDR brachytherapy fractions as part of their definitive radiotherapy, with close monitoring of treatment delivery and early toxicity. The trial focuses on feasibility and safety of the shorter regimen with follow-up for treatment-related adverse events.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Adults (age ≥18) with histologically confirmed cervical cancer planned for definitive brachytherapy, ECOG performance status 0-2, who can undergo MRI and provide informed consent are the ideal candidates.

Not a fit: Patients with prior recent pelvic radiation, contraindications to radiotherapy or MRI, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding may not be eligible or likely to benefit.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the 3-fraction schedule could reduce the number of invasive procedures and clinic visits while maintaining similar cancer control and safety.

How similar studies have performed: Shorter HDR brachytherapy schedules have been reported in single-center and retrospective series with promising toxicity and control rates, but randomized data directly comparing 3 versus 4 fractions are limited.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Histologically documented malignancy of the cervix and planned to receive brachytherapy as part of definitive treatment.
* ECOG performance status of 0-2
* Age ≥ 18 years old.
* Ability to understand and the willingness to provide written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Contraindication to receiving radiotherapy as determined by treating radiation oncologist.
* Contraindication to receiving MRI.
* Prior radiation to the pelvis \> 3 months ago
* Age \< 18 years old.
* Pregnant or breast-feeding

Where this trial is running

Palo Alto, California

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Cervical Cancershigh dose rate brachytherapy
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.