MRI-Guided Radiotherapy for Throat Cancer
(ART-OPC Trial)
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This is a phase II randomized trial, where patients with histologically proven squamous cell carcinoma of oropharynx that have primary tumor (T3 - T4) in place, treated with curative intent chemoradiation, will be randomized to systematic mid-treatment MRI-based radiotherapy adaptation vs. standard of care. The primary objective is to compare patient-rated dysphagia (as assessed by the MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory composite score at 6 months post-treatment in patients undergoing routine mid-treatment MR-guided radiotherapy adaptation vs. in patients receiving the current standard of care.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial team or your doctor.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment MRI-Guided Radiotherapy for Throat Cancer?
Research shows that MRI-guided radiotherapy (MRgRT) offers better soft tissue contrast than traditional methods, which helps in accurately targeting the cancer while sparing healthy tissues. This approach is particularly beneficial for head and neck cancers, as it allows for precise treatment adjustments based on daily imaging, potentially reducing side effects and improving outcomes.12345
Is MRI-guided radiotherapy for throat cancer safe for humans?
MRI-guided radiotherapy for head and neck cancer, including throat cancer, is being studied for its safety and feasibility. While traditional methods can cause significant side effects, this new approach aims to reduce those by adapting to changes in the tumor and surrounding tissues during treatment.12467
How is MRI-guided radiotherapy different from other treatments for throat cancer?
MRI-guided radiotherapy for throat cancer is unique because it uses detailed MRI images to precisely target the cancer, allowing for better adaptation to changes in the tumor and surrounding tissues during treatment. This approach can reduce side effects and improve treatment effectiveness compared to traditional methods.1891011
Research Team
Eligibility Criteria
Adults with advanced oropharyngeal cancer (stage T3-T4) who can undergo curative radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy. Participants must be able to consent, have an ECOG performance status of 0-2, and women must not be pregnant. Exclusions include prior head/neck radiation (except for certain skin cancers), previous HNC surgery other than biopsies, pregnancy/breastfeeding, connective tissue disease, conditions preventing follow-up, and MRI contraindications.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Trial Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive chemoradiation with either standard radiotherapy or adaptive radiotherapy based on mid-treatment MRI
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including patient-reported dysphagia and toxicities
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Experimental radiotherapy (Radiation Therapy)
- Standard radiotherapy (Radiation Therapy)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM)
Lead Sponsor
Austin Health
Collaborator