Using Silverlon for head and neck patients with tracheostomies
Official title: Feasibility and Tolerability of Silverlon® for Definitive Head and Neck Patients With Tracheostomies
Run by State University of New York - Upstate Medical University · NCT07856732 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This early-phase study tests whether Silverlon dressings can prevent severe skin reactions under tracheostomy collars in adults with head and neck cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 10 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | State University of New York - Upstate Medical University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Syracuse, New York) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 30, 2026 |
| Main results expected | August 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | January 30, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | October 5, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07856732 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults (18+) with definitive head and neck cancer receiving radiation, who have a tracheostomy and can read/write English.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with active infection at the treatment area, unhealed wounds, silver or nylon sensitivity, or conditions interfering with assessments may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This Phase 1 interventional trial evaluates prophylactic Silverlon dressings on the skin under tracheostomy collars for patients with head and neck cancer undergoing radiation therapy. Participants will wear Silverlon-nylon dressings and undergo daily removal with weekly changes to assess tolerability and dressing practicality. The study aims to determine safety, feasibility, and potential reduction of radiation-induced dermatitis in the tracheostomy area. Eligibility includes adults with ongoing definitive head and neck cancer treatment, a tracheostomy, and ability to understand English. Exclusion criteria cover intolerance to the dressing, unhealed wounds, active infection, and silver sensitivity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients may experience fewer or milder skin reactions under tracheostomy collars and a practical dressing regimen during radiation therapy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies of Silverlon dressings in radiation contexts have shown tolerability and potential benefit in related skin-protection scenarios, but this specific application in tracheostomy care is novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Undergoing definitive head and neck cancer (\>4 weeks of treatment) * Have a tracheostomy * Age ≥ 18 years * Must be able to understand and write English Exclusion Criteria: * Inability to fulfill requirements of the protocol * Presence of unhealed surgical wounds * Subjects unable or unwilling to wear Silverlon dressings * Active infection of treatment area * Any co-morbidity or condition which, in the opinion of the investigator, may interfere with the assessments and procedures of this protocol. * Subjects with known sensitivity to silver or nylon.
Where it's running
-
Upstate Medical University
Syracuse, New York, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Karna Sura, MD
- Email: surak@upstate.edu
- Phone: 315-464-5276
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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.