NCT05917301 · Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins
Pre-operative Hypofractionated Proton Therapy
(PRONTO)
What this study is about
This study is being done to examine whether proton therapy for certain kinds of sarcomas (extremity and trunk soft tissue) is safe and effective. As part of the study, patients will have five fractions of proton therapy before the participants have surgery for the sarcoma. The study will measure wound complications and functional outcomes / quality of life after the procedures.
View original scientific description
This study is being done to examine whether proton therapy for certain kinds of sarcomas (extremity and trunk soft tissue) is safe and effective. As part of the study, patients will have five fractions of proton therapy before the participants have surgery for the sarcoma. The study will measure wound complications and functional outcomes / quality of life after the procedures. Patients will be asked to complete questionnaires about the treatment and quality of life from the time of enrollment until about two years after surgery. Otherwise, the participants will have standard of care follow ups with the treatment team.
Interventions
RADIATION
hypofractionation
This study is being done to see if hypofractionation in treating sarcoma, will also provide patients with a faster and safer treatment outcome.
Primary outcome measures
Rate of major wound complications
Time frame: 90 days after surgery
Number of major wound complications as defined by the CAN-NCIC-SR2 trial ("secondary operation under general or regional anaesthesia for wound repair (debridement, operative drainage, and secondary wound closure including rotationplasty, free flaps, or skin grafts), or wound management without secondary operation…\[including\] an invasive procedure without general or regional anaesthesia (mainly aspiration of seroma), readmission for wound care such as intravenous antibiotics, or persistent deep packing for 120 days or longer.")
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
- Adult patients (≥18 years of age)
- Patients with primary or locally recurrent extremity or truncal soft tissue sarcoma
- WHO/ECOG status ≤2
Exclusion criteria
- History of prior local radiation therapy
- Inability to tolerate treatment position for duration of simulation or treatment
- Tumor originating in retroperitoneal location
- Patients planned for systemic therapy including chemotherapy, targeted agents, and immunotherapy
- Co-existing malignancy or treated malignancy in the last 2 years expected to limit life expectancy; does not include completely resected cutaneous basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, in situ breast or cervical malignancies, or other pathologies at the discretion of the investigators.
- Confirmed pregnancy.
Where
- Washington D.C., District of Columbia
Collaborators
Robert L. Sloan Fund for Cancer Research
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 Apr 17, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations