Improving facial function and quality of life for cancer patients with facial paralysis
Pilot Study of Management of Facial Paralysis in the Oncologic Patient: Nerve Transfer Techniques to Improve Facial Function and Quality of Life
This study tests if a new surgery to fix facial nerves can improve the quality of life and facial function for head and neck cancer patients with facial paralysis.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Houston, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT06667427 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This research focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of facial nerve transfer techniques in enhancing the quality of life for head and neck cancer patients suffering from facial paralysis. The study will utilize validated questionnaires to assess changes in quality of life and facial function before and after the surgical intervention, as well as at multiple follow-up points. Additionally, it will compare outcomes with a historical cohort of patients who did not receive dynamic nerve reconstruction. The goal is to provide evidence on the benefits of these surgical techniques for affected patients.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older who are scheduled to undergo facial nerve transfer surgery.
Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone any facial surgery or those with known pregnancy may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve facial function and overall quality of life for patients with facial paralysis due to cancer.
How similar studies have performed: While nerve transfer techniques have been explored in other contexts, this specific application in oncologic patients is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: In order to be eligible to participate in the intervention group of this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria: * Provision of signed and dated informed consent form * Aged 18 or greater * Patient scheduled to undergo facial nerve transfer * Stated willingness to comply with all study procedures and lifestyle considerations and availability for the duration of the study In order to be eligible to participate in the non-intervention historical control group of this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria: * Provision of signed and dated informed consent form * Aged 18 or greater * Previous facial surgery severing a facial nerve without graft or other form of dynamic facial nerve reconstruction within the last 20 years Exclusion Criteria: Patients known to be pregnant
Where this trial is running
Houston, Texas
- The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center — Houston, Texas, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Z-Hye Lee, MD — M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Z-Hye Lee, MD
- Email: zlee@mdanderson.org
- Phone: 713-563-4598
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.