Start Phase I study
Additional Heat Treatment for Head and Neck Cancer
The Erasmus Medical Center (Erasmus MC) will conduct research on a new supplementary treatment to radiation for head and neck cancer.
The chance of recovery for patients with advanced head and neck cancer after radiation is approximately 50%. Research is now being carried out on an additional treatment to radiation, specifically a heat treatment of the tumor. The heat treatment will occur after radiation.
This research is based on two components, both new to the treatment of these tumors: a technological component that allows for highly precise tumor heating, and a scientific component following international standards to determine the tolerance, safety, and, at a later stage, the effectiveness of this new treatment.
Technology
The upcoming Phase I study will focus on heating the tumor and lymph nodes to 40-43 degrees Celsius using a device developed by Erasmus MC. This device, the HyperCollar3D, heats the tumor and lymph nodes in a targeted way, ensuring minimal damage to the surrounding tissue.
The goal of this supplementary treatment is to achieve better patient outcomes with the same side effects.
Science
Dr. Michiel Kroesen, the research leader, states: “Previous studies have shown promising results. The aim of this research is to build a scientific fundament to assess the clinical acceptance of thermotherapy. In the upcoming Phase I study, we will study the side effects of heat treatment at different heating intensities. We will also explore new ways to measure temperature in both normal and tumor tissue to improve the treatment in the future.”
For the future, hospitals from Germany, Switzerland, Austria, the United Kingdom, and the United States have expressed interest in participating in a Phase II study (to assess effectiveness). Erasmus MC aims to play a leading role in this future Phase II study.
This research is funded jointly by KWF (with a public-private partnership grant from Health-Holland), Sensius B.V., and Erasmus MC.