RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07405645

Stereotactic MRI-guided Focused Ultrasound Mesencephalotomy

Stereotactic MRI-guided Focused Ultrasound Mesencephalotomy for Pain Palliation in Head, Neck, & Brachial Cancer

Sponsor

University of Virginia

Enrollment

20 participants

Start Date

Feb 15, 2026

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Squamous Cell Cancer of Head and Neck (SCCHN)Head & Neck Cancer Cancer Pain

Summary

This phase 1 multi-site study investigates the safety and initial effectiveness of focused ultrasound lesioning of the contralateral mesencephalon for severe, opioid-resistant pain associated with head and neck cancer and brachial cancer.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 YearsMax Age: 85 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study is testing a non-invasive procedure called focused ultrasound mesencephalotomy to relieve severe cancer-related pain in the head, neck, or shoulder area. The procedure targets a specific part of the brainstem to interrupt pain signals without surgery. **You may be eligible if...** - You are 18–85 years old - You have cancer in the head, neck, or brachial region (including throat, mouth, salivary glands, larynx, thyroid, skin, eye, upper lung, or lymphoma/sarcoma) - You have severe, persistent pain in the head, face, neck, or shoulder area related to your cancer (rated 5 or higher on a 0–10 scale for at least 2 months) - Your pain has not been adequately controlled with standard medications **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have a pacemaker or other metal implants preventing MRI - You are unable to lie still during the procedure - Your overall health is too poor to safely undergo the treatment Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

DEVICEExAblate Neuro

Exablate Neuro uses focused ultrasound waves to precisely target and ablate tissue deep within the brain with no incisions or implants. The treatment is done under Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) guidance for real time treatment monitoring.