A clinical trial at Sanford Health, known as EVOLVE, is showing promising results in reducing the duration of radiation treatment for throat cancer patients while maintaining effectiveness and minimizing side effects. The trial explores whether a less intensive treatment approach can benefit patients with less aggressive forms of the disease.
The EVOLVE Trial: Aims and Design
The EVOLVE trial, led by Dr. Steven Powell, a medical oncologist at Sanford Health, is designed to evaluate modified treatment regimens for head and neck cancers. "We're starting to learn from our research is maybe those patients with less risky disease could get lower intensity treatments and do better," said Dr. Powell. The trial adapts over time, incorporating new approaches that could decrease treatment intensity.
Reduced Radiation Protocol
The standard radiation treatment for throat cancer typically involves daily sessions, five days a week, for six weeks, totaling 30 fractions. The EVOLVE trial, using a protocol developed by Sanford Health radiation oncologist Dr. Miran Blanchard, significantly shortens this duration. Patients in the trial receive a lower dose of radiation in 20 fractions, administered twice daily over a period of just 10 days.
Patient Experience
Jeff Koehn, a participant in the EVOLVE trial, experienced firsthand the benefits of the reduced treatment time. After noticing a lump on his neck and receiving a tonsil cancer diagnosis, Koehn underwent surgery followed by the EVOLVE trial's radiation protocol. "The treatment was completed by Dec. 30," said Koehn, who started the treatment on Dec. 18. Three months later, a PET scan confirmed he was cancer-free. Koehn emphasized the importance of trusting his doctors and adhering to the treatment plan.
Benefits of Shorter Treatment
The reduced radiation schedule aims to decrease the intensity of side effects commonly associated with throat cancer treatment, such as difficulty swallowing, eating problems, and dry mouth. Koehn's experience reflects this, as he was able to resume his normal lifestyle, including traveling to Europe, shortly after completing treatment. Furthermore, Koehn appreciated the personalized care he received during the trial, noting that the staff knew him by name and made him feel comfortable throughout the process.
Implications for Throat Cancer Treatment
The EVOLVE trial suggests that a shorter, less intensive radiation treatment may be a viable option for certain throat cancer patients, offering the potential for fewer side effects and a quicker return to normal life. Further research and analysis of the trial data will help determine the long-term efficacy and applicability of this approach.
