NCT07278557 · UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center
Sparing Parotid Ducts Via MRI Sialography for Reduced Patient-Reported Xerostomia
What this study is about
Radiation-induced xerostomia (dry mouth) is one of the most common and severe side effects for patients receiving radiation therapy for head and neck cancer. New approaches are needed to reduce this side effect and improve patients' quality of life after treatment. This is a Phase II, single-center, double-masked, parallel-treatment group$1, randomly assigned controlled trial.
View original scientific description
Radiation-induced xerostomia (dry mouth) is one of the most common and severe side effects for patients receiving radiation therapy for head and neck cancer. New approaches are needed to reduce this side effect and improve patients' quality of life after treatment. This is a Phase II, single-center, double-masked, parallel-arm, randomized controlled trial. It compares MRI-guided parotid ductal sparing to the standard approach of mean parotid gland sparing, focusing on patient-reported dry mouth outcomes in individuals receiving definitive radiotherapy for oropharyngeal cancer.
Interventions
DEVICE
MRI sialography
Prior to radiation therapy treatment planning, all participants will undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sialography in order to visualize patients' parotid ducts. This will enable these organs-at-risk to be spared during radiation treatment planning
OTHER
Parotid Duct Sparing Radiation Therapy Planning
Radiation therapy will be administered based on treatment planning that aims to minimize the dose to the parotid ducts.
OTHER
Parotid Sparing Radiation Therapy Planning
Radiation therapy will be administered based on treatment planning that uses the entire parotid gland volume as the organ-at-risk, in accordance with standard clinical practice. The parotid ducts will not be considered separately.
Primary outcome measures
The rate of xerostomia score based on the University of Michigan Xerostomia -6 months Questionnaire - 6 months
Time frame: 6 months
The rate of xerostomia score based on the University of Michigan Xerostomia Questionnaire (UMXQ) will be determined. UMXQ is an eight-item patient-reported instrument designed to assess the severity of xerostomia (dry mouth), gauging symptoms both during and outside of eating or chewing. The score ranges from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating worse xerostomia. Participants treated with parotid ductal sparing radiotherapy will be compared.
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
- To participate in this study a subject must meet all of the eligibility criteria outlined below. Eligibility must be maintained for the subject to be considered eligible for ongoing trial participation.
- Provide written informed consent to participate in the study and HIPAA authorization for release of personal health information.
- Able to comply with study procedures based on the judgment of the clinical investigator.
- Male or female, aged ≥ 18 years at the time of consent.
- Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0-2 at the time of consent.
- Women of reproductive potential must use highly effective contraception.
- T0-4, N0-3, M0 stage cancer of the oropharynx (American Joint Committee on Cancer Staging System 8th edition) planned for definitive radiotherapy +/- chemotherapy.
- No contraindications for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Exclusion criteria
- An individual who meets any of the following criteria will be excluded from participation In this study:
- Patients with Sjogren's disease or baseline xerostomia.
- Patients with lesions involving the salivary glands on diagnostic imaging
- Patients with an allergy to lemon juice
- Prior lifetime history of radiation therapy to the head and neck
- Current pregnancy or lactation.
Where
- Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Collaborators
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)
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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 Feb 3, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations