HN-BIO 02: A Phase II Randomized Study of the Effects of Delayed Elective Radiotherapy on Head and Neck MRI and Immune Response Biomarkers

This randomized study is looking at whether a short delay before starting radiation therapy affects the tumor's characteristics on MRI scans and the body's immune response in people with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (mouth, throat, or voice box cancer). **You may be eligible if...** - You are 18 or older - You have been diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell cancer confirmed by tissue biopsy - Your primary tumor or involved lymph nodes are larger than 3 cm - You are planned for either surgery or chemoradiotherapy with curative intent - You are willing to have repeat MRI scans - Your kidney function is adequate (creatinine clearance at least 30 mL/min) - You can comfortably lie on your back for 1 hour **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have a systemic illness that makes you unsuitable for the study - You are unable to have MRI scans - You have had another solid tumor treated within the last 5 years - You are pregnant - You have a gadolinium (MRI contrast dye) allergy - You have a blood clotting disorder that cannot be reversed Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.