NCT03550391 · Canadian Cancer Trials Group
Stereotactic Radiosurgery Compared With Hippocampal-Avoidant Whole Brain Radiotherapy (HA-WBRT) Plus Memantine for 5 or More Brain Metastases
What this study is about
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a commonly used treatment for brain tumors. It is a one-day (or in some cases two day), out-patient procedure during which a high dose of radiation is delivered to small spots in the brain while excluding the surrounding normal brain.
View original scientific description
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a commonly used treatment for brain tumors. It is a one-day (or in some cases two day), out-patient procedure during which a high dose of radiation is delivered to small spots in the brain while excluding the surrounding normal brain. Whole brain radiation therapy with hippocampal avoidance (HA-WBRT) is when radiation therapy is given to the whole brain, while trying to decrease the amount of radiation that is delivered to the area of the hippocampus.
Interventions
DRUG
Memantine
20 mg (10 mg divided twice daily). Dose will be escalated by 5 mg per week. Memantine should start at 5 mg, and then increased in 5 mg increments at the following schedule, depending on the patient's response and tolerance:
RADIATION
Hippocampal-avoidant (HA-WBRT) Radiotherapy
30Gy in 10 fractions
PROCEDURE
Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)
18-20 or 22 Gy in single fraction
Primary outcome measures
Overall Survival
Time frame: 4.5 years
To compare the overall survival in patients with five to fifteen brain metastases who receive SRS compared to patients who receive HA-WBRT + memantine
Neurocognitive progression-free survival
Time frame: 4.5 years
To compare the neurocognitive progression-free survival in patients with five to fifteen brain metastases who receive SRS compared to patients who receive HA-WBRT + memantine
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Patients must have 5 or more brain metastases as counted on a T1 contrast enhanced MRI obtained ≤ 30 days from randomization (maximum 15 brain metastases).
- Patients must have a pathological diagnosis (cytological or histological) of a non-hematopoietic malignancy.
- The largest brain metastasis must measure \<2.5 cm in maximal diameter.
- Centre must have the ability to treat patients with either a Gamma Knife, Cyberknife, or a linear accelerator-based radiosurgery system.
- Patient must be \> 18 years of age.
- Patient is able (i.e. sufficiently fluent) and willing to complete the quality of life questionnaires in either English or French either alone or with assistance.
- ECOG performance status 0, 1, or 2.
- Creatinine clearance must be ≥ 30 ml/min within 28 days prior to registration.
- The Neurocognitive Testing examiner must have credentialing confirming completion of the neurocognitive testing training.
- Facility is credentialed by IROC to perform SRS a
Where
- Tucson, Arizona
- Corona, California
- Duarte, California
- Irvine, California
- La Jolla, California
- Lancaster, California
- Orange, California
- Rancho Cordova, California
- Rohnert Park, California
- Roseville, California
- Sacramento, California
- Santa Clara, California
And 54 more locations — see the full list below.
Collaborators
Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology, NRG Oncology
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 9, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations