Proton Therapy for Recurrent Cancer
(ReRT Trial)
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Proton Therapy for Recurrent Cancer?
Research shows that intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT) can improve the precision of radiation delivery, sparing healthy tissue while effectively targeting cancer cells. This has been observed in conditions like pancreatic, thoracic, and esophageal cancers, suggesting potential benefits for recurrent cancer as well.12345
Is proton therapy generally safe for humans?
Proton therapy, including intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT), has been used in treating various cancers like pancreatic, head and neck, and anal cancer. It is known for its ability to target tumors more precisely, potentially reducing damage to surrounding healthy tissues and lowering the risk of side effects compared to traditional radiation therapy. Initial studies suggest it is promising and generally safe, but ongoing research is needed to fully understand its safety profile.14567
How is proton therapy different from other treatments for recurrent cancer?
Proton therapy, specifically intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT), is unique because it can precisely target tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues, unlike traditional radiation therapies. This precision is particularly beneficial for recurrent cancers where sparing normal tissue is crucial.12348
What is the purpose of this trial?
The goal of this clinical research trial is to study the use of differing investigational doses and scheduling for Proton Therapy for tumors previously treated with radiation therapy. Generally, when patients are first treated for cancer with radiation therapy, they are treated with traditional photon (or x-ray) radiation therapy, which uses high-energy waves to kill tumor cells. In some cases, the cancer either returns or a new tumor can present in a different part of the body. With the usual radiation treatment, the photon beams travel all the way through the body. As a result, healthy tissues in front of and behind the tumor are exposed to radiation. Physicians who treat these cases where the tumor has returned often use a much lower dose of radiation to prevent patients from experiencing serious and long-term side-effects. This dose is often not strong enough to destroy the cancerous tumor. Alternatively, they may also treat a smaller area than would be indicated for complete tumor eradication, again in an attempt to prevent serious and long-term toxicities, but at the cost of optimally treating the cancer. Proton therapy, however, may offer a chance to safely deliver a more effective dose and volume of radiation as it is more targeted and can spare healthy tissues surrounding the tumor.The reason we are conducting this research study is to look at whether Proton therapy can be a better way to treat reoccurring tumors in patients who have previously received radiation therapy to the same area, compared to treatment approaches used to date.
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults over 18 who've had radiation therapy before and now have recurring tumors. It's open to those with various cancers, including lung, brain, breast, gastrointestinal, and more. Participants need a recent physical exam and an ECOG performance status of 0-2. Those with severe non-cancer diseases or certain cancer histories are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive investigational doses of Proton Therapy for tumors previously treated with radiation therapy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Open-label extension (optional)
Participants may opt into continuation of treatment long-term
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Proton Therapy
Proton Therapy is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada, Japan for the following indications:
- Head and neck cancer
- Pediatric cancers
- Spine tumors
- Breast cancer
- Sarcoma
- Brain tumors
- Prostate cancer
- Head and neck cancer
- Pediatric cancers
- Spine tumors
- Breast cancer
- Sarcoma
- Brain tumors
- Prostate cancer
- Head and neck cancer
- Pediatric cancers
- Spine tumors
- Breast cancer
- Sarcoma
- Brain tumors
- Prostate cancer
- Head and neck cancer
- Pediatric cancers
- Spine tumors
- Breast cancer
- Sarcoma
- Brain tumors
- Prostate cancer
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
The New York Proton Center
Lead Sponsor