Buccal Fat for Transoral Robotic Lateral Oropharyngectomy Defects to and Postoperative Pain

Launched by UNIVERSITY HEALTH NETWORK, TORONTO · May 1, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at how a specific type of fat, called buccal fat, can help reduce pain after surgery for tonsil tumors. The main focus is on patients who need a special surgery called transoral robotic surgery, which is a less invasive way to remove tumors from the throat. Researchers want to find out if using buccal fat during the surgery makes a difference in how much pain patients feel, both when they are resting and when they are swallowing. They will also look at other factors like how well patients can swallow, any complications that might arise, how much pain medication is needed, and whether feeding tubes are required.

To be eligible for this trial, participants must be over 18 years old and need to have surgery for early to intermediate-stage tonsil cancer or certain salivary gland tumors. They should be able to understand the trial and agree to participate. Patients with a history of specific head and neck cancers, certain health issues, or those who are pregnant are not eligible. If you join the trial, you will rate your pain and swallowing abilities after the surgery, and the results will help determine if buccal fat is beneficial for reducing post-surgical discomfort. The trial is not yet recruiting participants, but it aims to provide important insights into improving recovery for patients undergoing this type of surgery.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Age \> 18
• 2. Require a transoral robotic lateral oropharyngectomy as a result of the following conditions :
• • Early - intermediate stage tonsillar squamous cell carcinoma (T1-2N0-1 p16+/- SCC of the palatine tonsils)
• • Early -intermediate stage salivary gland tumors of the palatine tonsils
• • based on FNA, Core biopsy, Punch biopsy
• • 3. Ability to understand and willing to sign a written informed consent
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. History of prior head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, or prior head and neck radiotherapy
• • 2. Presence of retropharyngeal lymphadenopathy
• • 3. Presence of bilateral lymphadenopathy, or patients requiring bilateral neck dissections.
• • 4. Patients with trismus at baseline
• • 5. Patients with psychological risk factors for persistent opioid use or drug addiction
• • 6. Need for open surgery (transcervical lateral oropharyngectomy), free tissue transfer, or alternative regional flap.
• • 7. Pregnancy