Rehabilitation for Head and Neck Cancer
(TIMELY REHAB Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to improve the quality of life for head and neck cancer patients by addressing often-overlooked issues like hearing loss and balance problems caused by treatment. It compares standard swallowing therapy to a new, comprehensive program called TIMELY REHAB, which includes proactive hearing and balance care, with remote support from audiologists and a tele-oncology nurse. The goal is to reduce stress and enhance well-being for survivors. This trial suits those diagnosed with head and neck cancer in the last 60 days, undergoing cisplatin chemotherapy or radiation, and receiving swallowing therapy. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative care solutions that could enhance the recovery journey.
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 prior data suggests that this rehabilitation program is safe for head and neck cancer patients?
Research has shown that the TIMELY REHAB program aims to enhance the quality of life for head and neck cancer survivors. This program provides early care for hearing and balance issues, alongside standard swallowing therapy. Studies have demonstrated that comprehensive rehabilitation methods are safe and can address problems early, preventing them from worsening.
Various studies have proven the safety of this type of rehabilitation. For example, research has shown that well-supervised physical therapy is both beneficial and safe for cancer recovery. Although specific details on side effects for the TIMELY REHAB program are not provided, the emphasis on early detection and management underscores a commitment to reducing risks and improving patient health.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the TIMELY REHAB protocol for head and neck cancer rehabilitation because it proactively integrates hearing and rehabilitative services into the standard care for swallowing. Unlike the usual approach, which waits for patients to report problems before offering additional care, TIMELY REHAB uses a screening and referral program to catch and address potential issues early. This proactive approach aims to improve overall recovery by anticipating and treating complications before they become severe.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for head and neck cancer?
Research has shown that structured swallowing exercises can greatly improve swallowing and eating in patients with head and neck cancer. One study found that performing these exercises at home can be very effective. In this trial, participants in the TIMELY REHAB arm will gain increased access to hearing and other rehabilitative services through a proactive screening and referral program. Addressing hearing and balance issues early, as planned in the TIMELY REHAB program, is crucial. These steps aim to catch hearing problems early, reducing stress and improving quality of life. The program's use of tele-health screenings helps identify and manage symptoms before they worsen. This coordinated care is expected to enhance overall well-being more than standard swallowing therapy alone, which is provided in the Usual Care arm.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Dawn L Konrad-Martin, PhD
Principal Investigator
VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for people with head and neck cancer who are receiving or have received chemotherapy and radiation, especially those at risk of hearing loss or swallowing problems. Participants should be able to take part in rehabilitation sessions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive standard swallowing therapy with proactive management for hearing and balance issues, including tele-oncology nurse assessments
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including assessments of dysphagia and hearing loss
Open-label extension (optional)
Participants may opt into continuation of rehabilitation services long-term
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- TIMELY REHAB
Trial Overview
The study compares standard swallowing therapy alone versus a new program that adds early screening and management for hearing and balance issues, plus extra rehab services based on individual needs, using telehealth support.
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Active Control
Participants will undergo regular standard of care for swallowing with increased access to hearing and other rehabilitative services through a proactive screening and referral program.
Participants will undergo regular standard of care for swallowing. In this arm, hearing and other rehabilitation care is reactive in response to a problem noticed by the patient and their care team.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
VA Office of Research and Development
Lead Sponsor
William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital
Collaborator
Durham VA Health Care System
Collaborator
Citations
Effectiveness of Home-Based Telerehabilitation Interventions ...
This study shows that home-based remote swallowing rehabilitation therapy can effectively improve the swallowing and dietary function of patients with HNC and ...
Restoring Speech and Swallowing After Head and Neck Cancer
Recent research demonstrates that structured swallowing rehabilitation programs can help patients recover function—in some cases returning to ...
Maximizing Quality of Life After Cancer Through ...
Participants randomized to the TIMELY REHAB arm receive a coordinated cancer rehabilitation program that includes: Intensive Dysphagia Therapy ( ...
Precision rehabilitation for swallowing dysfunction after ...
A dynamic precision rehabilitation framework for dysphagia in head and neck cancer. This model illustrates the continuous cycle of assessment, risk ...
Dysphagia Rehabilitation Outcomes in Head and Neck ...
Fifty-four patients were stratified into three groups based on the time since completion of the C/RT: < 1 year; 1–5 years; > 5 years post-C/RT.
Head and Neck Cancer Care in a Safety-Net Hospital - PMC
Data Analysis. We used descriptive statistics to report patient and disease characteristics, treatment details, surveillance outcomes, and clinical outcomes.
Developing High-Quality Cancer Rehabilitation Programs
Research has established the beneficial and safe nature of resistive training when conducted under the close supervision of exercise professionals trained in ...
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curetoday.com
curetoday.com/view/new-study-analyzes-physical-therapy-for-head-and-neck-cancer-survivorsNew Study Analyzes Physical Therapy for Head and Neck ...
Survivors of head and neck cancer often face unique challenges, and physical therapy can help.
Rehabilitation Management of Head and Neck Cancers
A systemic review looking at employment outcomes of head and neck cancer survivors post-treatment identifying factors associated with their ...
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