Plain-English translation of NCT04019548 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
Phase 3 — Testing in thousands of people, comparing the treatment against what doctors currently use. This is the last big step before approval.
This trial is testing whether patients with advanced throat cancer should receive a feeding tube (called a PEG tube) before starting chemotherapy and radiation, or only if they need it during treatment. The study will use cisplatin chemotherapy combined with radiation therapy in all participants, and will measure how well patients can swallow and their quality of life after treatment.
Chemotherapy and radiation for throat cancer can make it very difficult to eat and swallow, leading to weight loss and malnutrition during treatment. Doctors are not sure whether placing a feeding tube before treatment starts (to prevent problems) is better than waiting to place one only if a patient's food intake drops significantly during treatment.
You likely qualify if…
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You will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: either receiving a feeding tube before your chemotherapy and radiation start, or having one placed only if needed during your treatment. All participants will receive the same chemotherapy (cisplatin) and radiation therapy over several weeks. Throughout the study, you will complete questionnaires about your ability to swallow and your quality of life, and your nutrition will be monitored by a dietitian.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 4, 2026 · Not medical advice
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