Improving patient experience in head and neck cancer radiation therapy

A Phase 3 Study Optimising Patient Experience in Head and Neck Radiotherapy

PHASE3 · Irish Research Radiation Oncology Group · NCT06327139

This study tests which of three different mask types helps head and neck cancer patients feel more comfortable and accurately positioned during radiation therapy.

Quick facts

PhasePHASE3
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment201 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorIrish Research Radiation Oncology Group (network)
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Dublin)
Trial IDNCT06327139 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This phase III trial evaluates the setup accuracy of three immobilization methods for head and neck cancer patients undergoing radical radiation therapy. It compares two types of open-faced masks with a conventional closed-faced mask, measuring translational corrections using daily cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). The study also assesses patient distress levels associated with each immobilization device. A total of 198 patients will be enrolled, each receiving a minimum of 30 fractions of radiation therapy over an expected one-year enrollment period.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who are planned to receive 30-35 fractions of radical radiation therapy for head and neck cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who cannot tolerate or proceed with treatment using a closed mask will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the comfort and treatment accuracy for patients undergoing radiation therapy for head and neck cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have explored various immobilization techniques in radiation therapy, but this specific comparison of faceless masks is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. All radical H\&N patients receiving 30-35 fractions of Radiotherapy
2. Written informed consent obtained prior to any study-specific procedures
3. ≥18 years of age

Exclusion Criteria:

1) Patient who from the outset who would not tolerate or would be unable to proceed with treatment if placed in a closed mask, at the discretion of either the patient or the clinician.

Where this trial is running

Dublin

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Head and Neck Cancer, Radiation Therapy, Set-up Accuracy, Faceless Mask, Immobilisation, Quality of Life

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.