This study is looking at a new type of retractor, a device that gently holds your mouth open during surgery, for people with oral cavity disease or suspected cancer in the mouth or throat. The new retractor is made from a polymer (a type of plastic) and is being compared to the standard metal retractors currently used. Researchers want to see if the polymer retractor holds the mouth open just as well as the metal retractor, allowing the surgeon the same amount of space to work. This study will involve about 20 participants who are at least 18 years old and are already scheduled for an endoscopy (a procedure to look inside your throat) at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. The study aims to confirm that the new polymer retractor works as effectively as the metal one.

Study design

This is an observational study comparing a 3D-printed polymer retractor to standard metal retractors within the same patient. It plans to include about 20 participants.

What's involved

You would have your surgical working volume (the space available for the surgeon) measured with both a standard metal retractor and the 3D-printed polymer retractor during your scheduled endoscopy. This will also involve CT imaging with the polymer retractor.

Compensation

Not stated in the trial record.

Follow-up

The primary endpoint, comparing surgical working volume, will be measured between 2024 and 2025.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.