Special Pre-Surgery Diet for Head and Neck Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if a special pre-surgery diet can improve recovery for individuals undergoing major head and neck cancer surgery. Participants will consume a nutritional drink called Nestlé Impact Advanced Recovery twice daily for five days before their surgery. The researchers seek to understand whether this diet alters the gut microbiome (the community of microbes in the digestive system) and leads to better post-surgery outcomes. The trial is recruiting adults diagnosed with head and neck cancer who are undergoing major surgery and have moderate or severe malnutrition.
As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance recovery for future patients.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you have an autoimmune disorder requiring medication or are on chronic immunosuppression, you may not be eligible to participate.
What prior data suggests that this nutritional intervention is safe for pre-surgery patients with head and neck cancer?
Research has shown that Nestlé Impact Advanced Recovery supports the immune system, particularly after major surgery. Studies have found that this nutritional drink can reduce the risk of complications like fistulas (abnormal connections) and help patients leave the hospital sooner compared to standard care.
Previous patients have generally tolerated the drink well, with no major safety issues reported. The current study aims to assess how this pre-surgery nutrition might benefit head and neck cancer patients by potentially improving their surgical outcomes.
Participants in other studies have used the drink for similar durations without significant problems, suggesting it is safe for short-term use before surgery.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Nestlé Impact Advanced Recovery is unique because it focuses on boosting the immune system before surgery for head and neck cancer. Unlike standard nutritional approaches that might not target immune health specifically, this treatment is packed with immunonutrients like arginine, omega-3 fatty acids, and nucleotides. Researchers are excited about this blend because it could potentially enhance recovery and reduce complications by strengthening the body's defenses just days before surgery.
What evidence suggests that this nutritional intervention is effective for head and neck cancer surgery?
Research has shown that the Nestlé Impact Advanced Recovery supplement, provided to participants in this trial, can aid individuals undergoing surgery for head and neck cancer. Studies have found that it lowers the risk of complications such as postoperative fistulas, which are unusual connections between body parts, and reduces hospital stays compared to standard care. This supplement is rich in nutrients that support the immune system, helping the body manage cancer treatments more effectively. Previous research also found that it lessens severe side effects in these patients. Overall, these findings suggest that using this nutritional supplement before surgery may enhance recovery.35678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Carissa M. Thomas, MD, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults diagnosed with head and neck cancer preparing for major surgery, who are moderately or severely malnourished. They must understand English and be able to consent. Excluded are those under 18, pregnant, with autoimmune disorders requiring medication, chronic immunosuppression, advanced kidney disease, cirrhosis, pancreatitis or allergies to fish oil.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Pre-operative Nutrition Intervention
Participants receive Nestlé Impact Advanced Recovery Immunonutrition two times daily for 5 days leading up to the date of surgery
Surgery and Immediate Post-operative Care
Participants undergo head and neck cancer surgery and receive immediate post-operative care
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in the gut microbiome and post-operative outcomes
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Nestlé Impact Advanced Recovery
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Lead Sponsor