Recruiting

Advanced imaging to personalize radiation therapy for head and neck cancer

Plain-English translation of NCT04612075 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated April 2026 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

What is this trial?

This trial is testing whether advanced imaging scans—combining PET and MRI technology—can help doctors better understand your individual tumor and design radiation therapy that is tailored just for you. The study will collect images before and during your radiation treatment to develop new ways to make radiation therapy more effective while reducing side effects.

Current radiation therapy for head and neck cancer has high failure rates and can cause serious side effects. This trial exists to see whether detailed imaging of your tumor's unique characteristics—like blood flow, oxygen levels, and metabolism—can help doctors personalize your treatment plan to improve outcomes and quality of life.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma (a type of cancer) in your head or neck region
your cancer is locally advanced without signs of spreading to distant parts of your body
you are scheduled to receive radiation therapy with the goal of curing your cancer
your kidneys are functioning adequately, as measured by a simple blood test
you are willing and able to give written informed consent

You likely don't qualify if…

you have a pacemaker, aneurysm clips, or other metal implants in your body that would make MRI unsafe
you have severe claustrophobia or anxiety about being in an enclosed space
you have had another cancer (of the same type or different type) within the past five years
you have serious health conditions like poorly controlled diabetes that might prevent you from completing the study
you are unable or unwilling to complete all study visits and procedures

What participation looks like

You will receive standard MRI imaging as part of your cancer staging, plus an additional 5-minute scan sequence. If you have advanced cancer, you will also have a combined PET/MRI scan. These imaging scans will be done before you start radiation therapy and again during your treatment course. Your doctors will use these detailed images to plan and potentially adjust your radiation therapy to target your specific tumor characteristics.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 13, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(2 sites)

Norway

University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø

St Olavs Hospital, Department of Oncology, Trondheim