Early swallowing and speech intervention for head and neck cancer patients after surgery
Feasibility of Early Swallowing and Speech Intervention for Head and Neck Cancer Patients Treated SURGically
NA · University Health Network, Toronto · NCT06192771
This study is testing if early help from speech therapists can improve swallowing and speech for patients with tongue cancer after surgery to prevent complications.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Health Network, Toronto (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Toronto, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT06192771 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the feasibility of early intervention by speech-language pathologists for patients with head and neck cancer who are undergoing surgery. It focuses on newly diagnosed patients with tongue squamous cell carcinoma who will have partial glossectomy and aims to implement swallow strategies before complications arise. The goal is to improve patient health and function, potentially reducing the risk of dysphagia-related complications and the need for feeding tubes. The study will assess the practicality of conducting a larger clinical trial based on these interventions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are newly diagnosed patients with at least T2 stage tongue squamous cell carcinoma scheduled for partial glossectomy.
Not a fit: Patients planned for total glossectomy will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve the quality of life for head and neck cancer patients by reducing swallowing difficulties and associated complications.
How similar studies have performed: Emerging evidence suggests that early intervention strategies in similar contexts have shown promise, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Newly diagnosed patients with at least T2 stage tongue SCC who are planned for partial glossectomy and free flap reconstruction and are anticipated to achieve a post-operative independent oral intake. * Proficient in spoken and written English Exclusion Criteria: * Patients who are planned for total glossectomy
Where this trial is running
Toronto, Ontario
- University Health Network — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Rosemary Martino, PhD — University Health Network, Toronto
- Study coordinator: Trixie Reichardt, MHSc
- Email: trixie.reichardt@uhnresearch.ca
- Phone: 416-946-3826
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Dysphagia, Head and Neck Cancer, dysphagia, head and neck cancer, speech language pathology, surgery, speech, early intervention