Cryocompression for Peripheral Neuropathy
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether a new cooling and pressure device, the Paxman Limb Cryocompression System, can reduce nerve damage symptoms in patients undergoing taxane-based chemotherapy. This nerve damage, known as peripheral neuropathy, can cause numbness, pain, or difficulty moving limbs. The trial compares the use of the device plus standard chemotherapy to chemotherapy alone. Individuals beginning their first round of certain chemotherapy treatments for gynecologic or breast cancer, who can complete questionnaires in English or Spanish, might be suitable candidates.
As an unphased trial, this study allows patients to contribute to innovative research that could enhance quality of life during chemotherapy.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
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 prior data suggests that the Paxman Limb Cryocompression System is safe for reducing peripheral neuropathy?
Research shows that the Paxman Limb Cryocompression System is safe and well-tolerated. Studies indicate it is safe for patients receiving taxane-based chemotherapy, which can cause peripheral neuropathy. This condition affects nerves in the arms and legs, leading to numbness or pain.
The cryocompression system uses cooling and pressure to help reduce these side effects. Previous research has found that this system is not only safe but also practical to use. Participants in studies have generally tolerated it well, with no major safety concerns reported.
These findings suggest that joining a trial using this system involves minimal risks. The system has undergone sufficient testing to demonstrate it is unlikely to cause serious problems.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Paxman Limb Cryocompression System because it offers a unique approach to managing peripheral neuropathy, especially for patients undergoing taxane-based chemotherapy. Unlike traditional options that focus on medication for symptom relief, this system uses cryocompression—a technique involving cold and pressure—to potentially prevent nerve damage from chemotherapy. This method could not only reduce the severity of neuropathy symptoms but also improve patients' overall quality of life by allowing them to maintain their chemotherapy dosing without interruption due to side effects.
What evidence suggests that the Paxman Limb Cryocompression System is effective for reducing peripheral neuropathy?
Research has shown that the Paxman Limb Cryocompression System, which participants in this trial may receive, might help reduce nerve damage caused by chemotherapy, potentially preventing numbness or pain. Studies have found that cold therapy can help prevent this type of nerve damage. In one study, 84% of patients completed their treatments using cryocompression, indicating it is generally well-tolerated. Early results also suggest that applying cold and pressure to the arms and legs during chemotherapy can reduce nerve issues. This therapy appears promising for individuals receiving taxane-based chemotherapy.12346
Who Is on the Research Team?
Leonarczyk
Principal Investigator
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Theresa Jabaley Leonarczyk, PhD, RN
Principal Investigator
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 with gynecologic or breast malignancies starting their first cycle of specific chemotherapy at DFCI's main campus. They must be able to complete questionnaires in English or Spanish. It excludes those with pre-existing neuropathy, prior neurotoxic chemotherapy, certain blood and circulation disorders, lymphedema in the treatment limb, or open skin wounds on that limb.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive standard of care taxane-based chemotherapy with or without cryocompression
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including assessment of CIPN symptoms
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Paxman Limb Cryocompression System
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Lead Sponsor
Theresa Jabaley, PhD
Lead Sponsor
Paxman Coolers Limited
Collaborator