NCT02507141 · Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Reflectance Confocal Microscopy of Oral Cancers in Vivo: a Preliminary Trial Comparing Intra-oral Imaging With Pathology
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to get images (pictures) of taken by mouth lesions, which occur inside the mouth, before the patient's surgery using a special camera. These pictures will be used in our research to evaluate a new technology that uses a laser and takes pictures of the microscopic structure of tissue. The technology is called "reflectance confocal microscopy.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to get images (pictures) of oral lesions, which occur inside the mouth, before the patient's surgery using a special camera. These pictures will be used in our research to evaluate a new technology that uses a laser and takes pictures of the microscopic structure of tissue. The technology is called "reflectance confocal microscopy." We would like to compare what the camera sees to biopsies (pathology) of the same area. We will evaluate the pictures obtained from the patient to determine whether this technology may be useful in the future. We hope this technology can be used as a tool for early diagnosis of oral cancers and for guiding surgery.
Interventions
DEVICE
Reflectance Confocal Microscopy
Reflectance Confocal Microscopy imaging will be performed during surgery. The imaging procedure is expected to last no more than 15-20 minutes. The approach will be essentially similar to the imaging of skin cancer on patients, which is routinely performed in our Dermatology Service.
Primary outcome measures
Reflectance Confocal Microscopy (RCM) images
Time frame: 1 year
Each set of images and the corresponding pathology will be evaluated by the study pathologist for the presence or absence of oral SCC. All images will be evaluated as a group. First, the pathologist will review the RCM images for each imaging site and will determine the presence/absence of tumor. Next, the pathologist will review the corresponding histopathologic material for the presence/absence of tumor. If there is discordance in the evaluations, the pathologist will re-evaluate the RCM images with the corresponding pathology, in a side-by-side manner, to highlight any features that may assist in the RCM evaluation.
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 with biopsy-proven oral SCC who are scheduled to undergo surgery in the MSK Head and Neck Service.
- Ability to sign informed consent.
- Age ≥ 18 years.
Exclusion criteria
- Cancer located on a site that may not be convenient or accessible for imaging with the current version of the RCM device (gingivobuccal region, back of the oral cavity, back of the tongue, floor of the mouth, deep under the tongue, etc.).
- Inability to give informed consent.
Where
- Basking Ridge, New Jersey
- Middletown, New Jersey
- Harrison, New York
- New York, New York
- Uniondale, New York
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 Aug 4, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations