Evaluating tissue oxygenation in head and neck cancer patients using advanced imaging technology
Official title: Non-invasive Preoperative Donor-site Evaluation of Free Flaps in Head and Neck Tumor Patients Using Multispectral Optoacoustic Tomography (MSOT)
Run by University of Erlangen-Nürnberg Medical School · NCT06716892 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new imaging technology to see if it can help understand oxygen levels in tissues of head and neck cancer patients compared to healthy people, which could lead to better surgical results.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Erlangen-Nürnberg Medical School Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Erlangen, Bavaria) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 28, 2024 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2025 |
| Study ends | July 31, 2025 |
| Registry record updated | December 4, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT06716892 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with head and neck cancer as well as healthy adults.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have chronic alcohol and nicotine abuse may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the use of Multispectral Optoacoustic Tomography (MSOT) to assess tissue oxygenation in patients with head and neck cancer compared to healthy individuals. By scanning various body areas commonly used for reconstructive surgery, the study aims to identify differences in muscle oxygenation that may indicate compromised tissue perfusion in cancer patients. The research will involve both cohorts to explore the impact of conditions like smoking on tissue health. The findings could help improve surgical outcomes for reconstructive procedures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance preoperative evaluations and improve surgical outcomes for patients undergoing reconstructive surgery.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of MSOT is a relatively novel approach, similar imaging technologies have shown promise in evaluating tissue perfusion in other contexts.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Cohort 1: Histopathological diagnosed head and neck tumor patients. * Cohort 2: Healthy adults. Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnancy / breastfeeding * ink / tattoo in the areas of interest (upper back, distal forearm, upper and lower leg) * missing consent form * Cohort 2: Chronical abuse of alcohol and nicotine.
Where it's running
-
University Hospital Erlangen
Erlangen, Bavaria, Germany Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Felix Wachter
- Email: felix.wachter@uk-erlangen.de
- Phone: +49 9131 85 41175
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.