Olfactory training for patients after skull base surgery

Chemosensory Dysfunction and Recovery in Endoscopic Endonasal Skull Base Surgery

Not applicable Interventional Johns Hopkins University · NCT05912881

This study is testing if olfactory training can help people recover their sense of smell after having skull base surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorJohns Hopkins University Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Baltimore, Maryland)
Trial IDNCT05912881 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery on patients' chemosensory functions, specifically focusing on anosmia. The researchers hypothesize that postoperative olfactory training can significantly improve the recovery of chemosensory function and enhance quality of life. By comparing the effects of olfactory training against a placebo, the study aims to provide insights into effective rehabilitation strategies for patients experiencing sensory disruptions after surgery. This prospective approach addresses a critical gap in understanding and managing postoperative olfactory impairments.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are English-speaking individuals with a preoperative diagnosis of benign sellar or parasellar skull base pathology.

Not a fit: Patients with malignant skull base pathology or a history of significant sinonasal or cranial treatments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved recovery of smell and taste for patients undergoing skull base surgery.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of olfactory training is gaining interest, this specific application in the context of skull base surgery is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* English Speaking
* preoperative diagnosis of benign sellar or parasellar skull base pathology

Exclusion Criteria:

* preoperative diagnosis of malignant sellar or parasellar skull base pathology
* history of endoscopic sinus surgery
* history of skull base surgery
* history of radiation therapy or other local treatments for the management of facial, sinonasal, or cranial pathologies
* history of chronic rhinosinusitis
* history of neurocognitive disorder
* history of intrinsic chemosensory pathology
* history of cardiac pacemaker
* history of gastrectomy

Where this trial is running

Baltimore, Maryland

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 AnosmiaSkull Base Neoplasms
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.