Acupuncture for Prevention and Treatment of Oral-related Complications Caused by Radiotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer

Launched by WEST CHINA HOSPITAL · Feb 21, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is investigating whether acupuncture can help prevent and treat oral-related problems that can occur after patients receive radiation therapy for head and neck cancer. Many patients experience difficulties such as dry mouth, which can be uncomfortable and affect their quality of life. The study aims to see if acupuncture is a safe and effective way to relieve these issues.

To participate in this trial, individuals need to be between 18 and 80 years old, diagnosed with head and neck cancer that has not spread, and currently receiving radiation treatment. Participants must be able to safely undergo acupuncture and should not have certain conditions that could interfere with the treatment, like severe dry mouth or a fear of needles. Those who join the study can expect to receive acupuncture sessions, and they will be monitored to see how it affects their oral health during and after their radiation treatment. If you're interested in learning more or think you might qualify, consider discussing this trial with your healthcare provider.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Patients diagnosed with malignant tumors of the head and neck without metastasis
• • Age ≥18, ≤80 years old
• • ZPS score ≤2
• • Receiving radiotherapy alone or concurrent radiotherapy with a radiation dose of \>50 Gy, including at least one parotid gland
• • Judged to be able to receive acupuncture treatment, with all needle positions identified as accessible
• • Signed informed consent form
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • History of dry mouth, Sjogren's syndrome, or other underlying systemic condition known to cause dry mouth
• • Suspected or confirmed physical closure of both salivary gland ducts
• • Have a phobia of needles or prohibit the use of acupuncture at any acupuncture points
• • Have a history of head and neck radiotherapy
• • Have contraindications to acupuncture, including but not limited to bleeding disorders, having skin infections, ulcers or frequent infections
• • Have taken any medications or herbs within the past 30 days that may affect salivary function, plan to or eventually take such substances during the study period
• • Poor oral hygiene or severe periodontitis
• • Poor compliance
• • Other patients who, in the opinion of the investigator, are not suitable for participation in this study