NCT06593106 · Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center
Cryodevitalization for the Treatment of Early Stage Lung Cancer, CRYSTAL Trial
What this study is about
This clinical trial studies side effects and best treatment time of cryodevitalization in treating patients with early stage (stage I or stage II) lung cancer. Cryodevitalization is a type of cryosurgery that uses a flexible probe (cryoprobe) to kill tumor cells by freezing them. It is delivered at the time of standard diagnostic robotic bronchoscopy.
View original scientific description
This clinical trial studies side effects and best treatment time of cryodevitalization in treating patients with early stage (stage I or stage II) lung cancer. Cryodevitalization is a type of cryosurgery that uses a flexible probe (cryoprobe) to kill tumor cells by freezing them. It is delivered at the time of standard diagnostic robotic bronchoscopy. Using cryodevitalization may be safe, tolerable and/or effective in treating patients with early stage lung cancer.
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 a single pulmonary nodule with a size less than or equal to three centimeters (average long and short axis) confirmed as malignant intraprocedurally (rapid on-site evaluation with pathology assessment showing lung cancer or oligometastatic disease) without evidence of mediastinal involvement who require nodule biopsy prior to proceeding with surgical resection
- Nodules must be located in the outer 2/3 of the periphery of the lung, greater than 10 mm from the pleura and from large blood vessels or mediastinal structures to avoid injury to other visceral organs
- Patients deemed to have a surgical resection treatment option based on preoperative staging computed tomographic (CT), postoperative predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) \> 40% and evaluation of medical comorbidities after discussion at multidisciplinary tumor board
- Age \> 18 years old
Exclusion criteria
- Target nodule is within the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) "central zone" (including bronchial tree, major vessels, heart, esophagus, spinal cord and phrenic \& laryngeal nerves), or are \< 10 mm from the pleura
- Patients with an expected survival less than 6 months
- Patients with endobronchial lesions, concerning for malignancy, visualized during the initial bronchoscopic evaluation of the airways
- Patients with medically uncorrectable coagulopathy: abnormal platelet count \< 100 × 10\^9/L or an international normalized ratio \> 1.5
- Patients with known pulmonary hypertension (PASP \[pulmonary artery systolic pressure\] \> 50mmHg)
- Patients who are currently prescribed anticoagulants, clopidogrel, or other platelet aggregation inhibitors
- Patients with medical comorbidities deemed high-risk for surgical resection
- Pregnant women
- Inability to provide informed consent
Where
- Nashville, Tennessee
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 2, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations