NCT07694726 · University of Pittsburgh
Preventing Lymphedema in Patients Undergoing Surgical Treatment for Head and Neck Cancer Through Vein Reconstruction
What this study is about
\* The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if facial vein reconstruction after neck dissection works to reduce rates of lymphedema in adults getting surgical treatment for head and neck cancer. This is a trial which aims to improve the rate of lymphedema for patients undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer.
View original scientific description
\* The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if facial vein reconstruction after neck dissection works to reduce rates of lymphedema in adults getting surgical treatment for head and neck cancer. This is a trial which aims to improve the rate of lymphedema for patients undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer. Our aim is to re-establish venous flow across the facial vein to improve lymphatic drainage after neck dissection. * The investigators will also evaluate lymphatic flow before and after facial vein reconstruction to determine if there is evidence of lymphedema. * The main questions this study aims to answer are: 1. Does facial vein reconstruction after neck dissection improved lymphatic flow in head and neck cancer patients? 2. Determine if there are changes in lymphatic flow before and after facial vein reconstruction? After the study is completed, the investigators will compare rates of lymphedema and quality of life in patients with facial vein preservation/reconstruction as compared to previous patients treated for head and neck cancer without facial vein reconstruction. Participants will undergo the following: 1. Oncologic and reconstructive surgery as normal. No changes in cancer treatment will occur due to the study. 2. When necessary, participants will undergo facial vein reconstruction immediately after neck dissection 3. Visit the clinic once every 3 months for routine checkups and tests. This is typical for most patients treated for head and neck cancer including those not enrolled in the trial. 4. Fill out short questionnaires to help understand quality of life after head and neck cancer treatment 5. Undergo lymphography in the OR and at the 1-year mark in the office. This is a simple test performed without radiation exposure. It requires 3 very small skin injections to perform the test.
Interventions
PROCEDURE
Facial Vein Reconstruction
Immediately after neck dissection, the facial vein will be assessed. If the vein has been ligated for the neck dissection, then the vein will be repaired. This may require vein graft and the use of a venous coupler. If the vein is intact after neck dissection, we can proceed without surgical intervention.
Primary outcome measures
Lymphedema Staging
Time frame: before surgery and every three months after surgery up to 1 year
The primary endpoint is the presence or absence of head and neck lymphedema (HNL) at follow-up, assessed using the MD Anderson Cancer Center Head and Neck Lymphedema (MDACC HNL) Scale. This scale is measured from 0 to 2. As the numbers increase, the severity of lymphedema increases. A score of 0 means there was no lymphedema present
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
- Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status 0 or 1
- Ability to comply with the study protocol, including follow up visits and additional requirements for data collection
- Ability to provide informed consent
- Patients requiring unilateral or bilateral neck dissection. Patients must undergo at least three level neck dissection which must include level 1B
- Patients will undergo radiotherapy +/-chemotherapy after surgery for HNC. Patients will be required to have adjuvant therapy after surgery to have similar risk of development of lymphedema.
- No history of allergy to indocyanine green.
Exclusion criteria
- Shellfish Allergy
- Contraindication to surgery under general anesthesia
- Prior head and neck surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy for HNC
- Patients requiring sacrifice of the internal jugular vein or resection of neck skin for oncologic care
- Anticipated partial or total laryngectomy
- Pregnancy or lactation
Where
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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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 Oct 6, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations