Using virtual reality to improve head and neck cancer surgery
Preoperative Virtual Reality and 3D Pathologic Modeling as Treatment for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
NA · Thomas Jefferson University · NCT05031910
This study is testing if using virtual reality during surgery can help improve outcomes for patients with head and neck cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 160 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Thomas Jefferson University (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT05031910 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the application of virtual reality technology and three-dimensional surgery modeling to enhance surgical planning and communication for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Participants are randomized into two groups: one receiving standard treatment alongside virtual reality modeling and the other receiving only standard treatment. The study aims to reduce margin events and improve event-free survival rates while evaluating the quality of interdisciplinary communication during surgery. Patients will be followed for up to 36 months post-surgery to assess outcomes.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults over 18 diagnosed with head and neck cancer eligible for definitive surgical resection.
Not a fit: Patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma or those unable to provide informed consent may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved surgical outcomes and reduced recurrence rates for patients with head and neck cancer.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual reality in surgical planning is emerging, this specific application in head and neck cancer surgery is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosed with cancer of the head and neck (oral cavity, oropharynx, larynx, hypopharynx, T1-T4) * Receiving treatment at Thomas Jefferson University - Center City by a fellowship-trained HNC surgeon * Eligible for definitive resection * Age \> 18 * Provide signed written informed consent document Exclusion Criteria: * Impaired judgement or those unable to provide informed consent * Any factor that would place the patient at increased risk or preclude the individual's full compliance with or completion of the study * Nasopharyngeal carcinoma * Contraindications for surgery * Enrollment in other clinical trial
Where this trial is running
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Joseph Curry, MD
- Email: joseph.curry@jefferson.edu
- Phone: 215-955-6784
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.
Conditions: Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma