Plain-English translation of NCT06667427 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 pilot study is testing a surgical technique called facial nerve transfer to help head and neck cancer patients regain facial movement and function. When cancer treatment damages the nerve that controls facial movement, this surgery aims to restore that function by rerouting healthy nerves. The study will measure how much the surgery improves patients' quality of life and ability to move their face.
Many patients who receive head and neck cancer treatment develop facial paralysis as a side effect, which can significantly impact their appearance, emotional well-being, and daily life. This study exists to evaluate whether nerve transfer surgery is an effective way to restore facial function and improve quality of life in these patients.
You likely qualify if…
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If you join the surgery group, you will undergo facial nerve transfer surgery at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. Before surgery and then at 6, 12, and 18 months after surgery, you will complete several questionnaires and facial function assessments to measure how well your facial movement has improved and how it affects your daily life. You may also be compared to a group of patients who had facial nerve damage but did not receive this type of surgery.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jul 6, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States
Sponsor
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Enrollment target
~40 participants
Started
January 2025
Primary completion
August 2026
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 March 2026.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Z-Hye Lee, MD
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
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.