Plain-English translation of NCT03238378 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
This trial is testing a combination approach for head and neck cancer that has come back after previous radiation therapy. The treatment uses two techniques together: brachytherapy (small radioactive implants placed directly in the tumor area) and interstitial hyperthermia (controlled heat delivered to the same area). This combination is being studied for patients where surgery to remove the cancer is not possible.
When head and neck cancer returns after radiation treatment, surgery is often the best option—but it's not always possible due to the tumor's location or a patient's health. This trial exists to find an effective treatment option for these challenging situations where standard surgery cannot be done.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
If you join this trial, you would receive brachytherapy (radioactive implants) placed in your tumor area over several days, with heat therapy delivered on specific days during that same period. The exact number of visits and length of treatment would depend on your individual situation and tumor characteristics. Your medical team would monitor you closely throughout and after the treatment to assess how well it works and watch for any side effects.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 27, 2026 · Not medical advice
Germany
Sponsor
University of Erlangen-Nürnberg Medical School
Enrollment target
~96 participants
Started
March 2017
Primary completion
December 2022
This trial's estimated completion date has passed — the record may not be fully up to date.
Age range
18 Years and older
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in June 2018.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Vratislav Strnad, MD
Dept. of Radiation Therapy, University Hospital Erlangen
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.