Microwave Treatment vs Freezing for Warts
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests two methods for treating common and plantar warts: microwave treatment using the Swift® system and cryotherapy, which freezes the wart. The goal is to determine which treatment more effectively removes warts. Individuals with one or more significant warts on their hands, knees, elbows, or feet for less than five years may qualify. Participants should not use other wart treatments and must attend study sessions. As an unphased trial, this study allows participants to explore innovative wart treatments and contribute to valuable research.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
If you are currently receiving treatment for common or plantar warts, you will need to stop your current medication for at least 28 days before starting the study treatment. Additionally, you should not take any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or antihistamines within 12 hours before and after the treatment.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Previous studies have shown that microwave treatment for warts is well-tolerated. Research indicates that most patients experience mild side effects, such as blistering or small sores, though these are uncommon. Out of 150 warts treated with the microwave method, 125 healed successfully, demonstrating its effectiveness.
Cryotherapy, by contrast, is a well-known treatment for warts. It is generally safe but can cause discomfort, such as pain during the procedure or skin redness. Both treatments have good safety records, but they may have different side effects. These should be considered when choosing a treatment option.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about the microwave treatment for warts because it offers a different approach than traditional methods like cryotherapy or topical treatments. Most standard treatments focus on freezing or applying medication to the wart. In contrast, the microwave treatment uses the Swift System to deliver short bursts of microwave energy directly to the wart, potentially stimulating a better immune response. This method is unique because it targets the root cause of the wart more precisely and may require fewer sessions, making it a promising alternative for patients looking for efficient and less invasive options.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for warts?
Research has shown that microwave therapy for treating warts looks promising. In one study, 83.3% of plantar warts treated with microwave energy successfully disappeared. Another study reported a success rate of 78% for this method. In this trial, some participants will receive the Microwave Treatment (Swift System). Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the wart, is also effective. Studies indicate that cryotherapy successfully removes about 60% of warts. Other participants in this trial will receive cryotherapy treatment. Both treatments have shown positive results, offering potential solutions for those dealing with stubborn warts.12567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Dr Bhatia
Principal Investigator
Oak Dermatology
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 22-64 with at least one significant common wart (3mm-10mm) or plantar wart (3mm-20mm), not mixed. Participants must stop current wart treatments 28 days before, avoid NSAIDs and antihistamines around treatment times, and commit to the study duration without using other wart products.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either Microwave Treatment or Cryotherapy for common and plantar warts. Each eligible subject will receive treatment at the baseline visit and again 4-weeks later, with a minimum of 2 treatments and up to a maximum of 4 treatments, each given in 4-week intervals.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment. Follow-up is conducted 12 weeks after the last treatment, with further follow-up visits at 6 months and 12 months to assess wart resolution or reoccurrence.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Cryotherapy
- Microwave Treatment (Swift System)
Cryotherapy is already approved in European Union, United States, Canada for the following indications:
- Pain relief
- Inflammation reduction
- Muscle spasm treatment
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Stress and anxiety relief
- Pain management
- Muscle soreness reduction
- Recovery after exercise
- Fibromyalgia treatment
- Skin health improvement
- Pain relief
- Inflammation reduction
- Muscle spasm treatment
- Arthritis management
- Postpartum recovery
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Blackwell Device Consulting
Lead Sponsor
Emblation Limited
Industry Sponsor