NCT07644585 · IBA Proton Therapy, Inc.
A Pilot Study of Ultra-High Dose Rate (ConformalFLASH®), for Reirradiation of Carcinoma of the Head and Neck
(C-FLASH-01)
What this study is about
This pilot study is designed to evaluate the feasibility of delivering ultra-high dose-rate conformal proton therapy (ConformalFLASH) in participants requiring re-irradiation for head and neck cancer who are not amenable to surgical resection.
View original scientific description
This pilot study is designed to evaluate the feasibility of delivering ultra-high dose-rate conformal proton therapy (ConformalFLASH) in participants requiring re-irradiation for head and neck cancer who are not amenable to surgical resection. ConformalFLASH treatment planning and delivery workflows are comparable to those of conventional Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT), a standard approach for re-irradiation in this population.
Interventions
RADIATION
ConformalFLASH irradiation
Subjects will be treated with SBRT (8 GyRBE x 5 fractions over 1.5-2 weeks), using pencil-beam scanning proton therapy, delivered at an average dose rate of ≥ 40 GyRBE/second, without chemotherapy.
Primary outcome measures
ConformalFLASH treatment delivery feasibility
Time frame: Through treatment completion (within 1 month after last fraction)
Delivery of ≥ 95% of the prescribed dose to ≥ 95% of the clinical target volume (CTV) at an average dose rate of ≥ 40 GyRBE/second
Acute toxicities
Time frame: Up to 3 months after treatment start
Incidence of acute toxicity as assessed by Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 6.0
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 sign an informed consent document that indicates they are aware of the investigational nature of the treatment in this protocol as well as the potential risks and benefits
- Patients ≥ 18 years old
- Patients ineligible for or decline upfront surgical resection
- Histologically confirmed diagnosis of carcinoma of the head and neck
- Prior receipt of at least 45 GyRBE radiotherapy to the head and neck
- Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) Performance Status 0-2 or evidence of similar in the electronic medical record
- Life expectancy of more than 12 weeks
- Ability to understand and the willingness to provide written informed consent and to follow the study procedures
Exclusion criteria
- Receipt of prior head and neck radiotherapy within the prior 6 months
- Surgical resection of the current disease in the head and neck
- More than 3 areas of disease requiring reirradiation
- Disease focus exceeding 6.5 cm in greatest dimension
- Presence of distant metastatic disease
- Involvement of any of the following structures: skin, carotid artery, or mandible
- Receipt of concurrent chemotherapy during radiotherapy
- Uncontrolled intercurrent illness including medical and psychiatric, and social situations that would limit compliance with study requirements
- Enrolled in any other investigational studies that involve administrations of another cancer therapeutic (such as surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy) during RT
- Pregnant and/or breastfeeding
Where
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Collaborators
University of Pennsylvania
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 Sep 18, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations