High Heated Humidity in Stem Cell Transplant
This study is for people having a stem cell transplant for certain blood cancers, like lymphoma or multiple myeloma. We're looking at whether using a special device called Airvo, which delivers warm, moist air, can help reduce soreness in the mouth and throat (called mucositis). This kind of soreness is a common side effect of the strong chemotherapy given before a transplant. We want to see if using this device can make you more comfortable, lead to fewer complications, and potentially shorten your time in hospital. Half the people in the study will use the Airvo device, and the other half will receive the usual care, so we can compare the results.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When you have a stem cell transplant for certain blood cancers like Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, or multiple myeloma, you first receive very strong chemotherapy. While this treatment is vital, it can cause some side effects, especially in your mouth and throat. This soreness, known as mucositis, can be quite uncomfortable and sometimes lead to longer hospital stays.
This study is looking at a special device called Airvo, which provides warm, moist air, like a gentle steam. Doctors believe that using this warm, moist air might help soothe your mouth and throat, potentially reducing the pain and helping you recover more smoothly. The goal is to see if this comforting treatment can make a real difference to your experience during and after your stem cell transplant.
By helping to relieve mucositis, we hope this treatment could reduce the chances of complications and potentially mean you don't have to stay in the hospital for as long. We are comparing this new approach with the standard care that patients usually receive, to understand if it offers a better experience.
Key takeaways
- This study explores a new way to ease mouth and throat soreness after a stem cell transplant.
- It uses a device that delivers warm, moist air to potentially reduce discomfort.
- The aim is to improve comfort and possibly shorten hospital stays.
- Participation involves either using the device or receiving standard care.
- You can withdraw from the study at any time without affecting your medical care.
Who may be eligible?
To be part of this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and have one of the following blood cancers: Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, or multiple myeloma. You must be planned to have a high-dose chemotherapy treatment with a stem cell transplant (ASCT) as part of your standard medical care.
It's important that you are generally well enough to take part and are happy to follow the study's instructions. You'll also need to give your written permission to join the study, or have someone legally able to do so on your behalf.
There are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you have severe nasal problems that would make using the device uncomfortable, or if you have a current flu-like illness. Also, if you have a tracheostomy tube or if you use a CPAP machine for sleep apnea, this study might not be suitable because the equipment wouldn't fit or would interfere with your usual care.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you have Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, or multiple myeloma?
- Are you scheduled for a high-dose chemotherapy and your own stem cell transplant (ASCT)?
- Are you generally well enough and willing to follow the study instructions?
- Do you not have severe nasal blockages or a tracheostomy tube?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, your treatment during the stem cell transplant will be compared with other patients. You will either receive the usual care, or you will use the Airvo device for at least 4 hours every day. You'll be in the hospital during this time, and you'll typically use the device for up to 14 days. If the soreness in your mouth and throat continues beyond 14 days, you might use the device for a longer period, up to a maximum of 30 days. There are no extra hospital visits beyond what you would normally have for your stem cell transplant. The main difference is the use of the Airvo device for a set period. There are no additional medications given as part of this study.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Cross Cancer InstituteVerified postcodeEdmonton, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is mucositis?
Mucositis is soreness and inflammation in the lining of your mouth and throat, which is a common side effect of strong chemotherapy treatments.
What is an autologous stem cell transplant?
This is a treatment where your own healthy stem cells are collected before high-dose chemotherapy and then given back to you afterwards to help your body recover.
What does 'Standard of Care' mean?
This refers to the usual, proven medical treatment that patients would receive for their condition, outside of a research study.
Will I know if I'm getting the warm, moist air or standard care?
Yes, this is an 'open label' study, meaning you and your doctors will know whether you are using the Airvo device or receiving standard care.
How long will I use the Airvo device each day?
You will use the Airvo device for at least 4 hours each day, typically for up to 14 days while you are in the hospital.
How to find out more
Lisa Lem
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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