Laser treatment for spinal tumors

Single Center Observational Study Using Spinal Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (sLITT) in the Treatment of Spine Metastases and Tumors

Not applicable Interventional Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center · NCT06548061

This study is testing a new laser treatment for spinal tumors to see if it works better than traditional surgery for patients needing relief from their symptoms.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment25 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorDartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center Academic / other
Locations1 site (Lebanon, New Hampshire)
Trial IDNCT06548061 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical study evaluates the efficacy and safety of spinal laser interstitial therapy for treating metastatic spinal tumors. The investigators aim to compare the rates of local tumor control achieved with this laser technique against traditional open surgical methods. Patients with confirmed spinal tumors involving specific spine segments and who require palliative intervention will be included in the study. The treatment will utilize the Visualase Thermal Therapy System to deliver targeted laser therapy.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients with histologically confirmed spinal tumors located in the T2-T12 segments who have a normal neurologic exam and require palliative intervention.

Not a fit: Patients with neurologic deficits, contraindications to MRI or general anesthesia, or tumors spanning more than three vertebral segments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a less invasive treatment option for patients with metastatic spinal tumors, potentially improving outcomes and recovery times.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies using laser therapy for tumor treatment have shown promising results, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Histology confirmed spinal tumor involving the T2-T12 spine segments.
2. Indication for spine stereotactic radiosurgery or palliative intervention.
3. Normal neurologic exam at the time of presentation (Frankel grade E).

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Contraindication to MRI
2. ANY neurologic deficit
3. Tumor spanning more than 3 consecutive vertebral segments
4. Contraindication to general anesthesia
5. Pregnancy

Where this trial is running

Lebanon, New Hampshire

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 Spinal Metastases
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.