Zero Out-of-Pocket Heavy Ion Therapy for Esophageal Cancer: Clinical Study Now Fully Underway

Clinical Study on Heavy Ion Therapy for Esophageal Cancer with Zero Out-of-Pocket Costs Now Fully Underway

As the first hospital in China to clinically apply the domestically produced heavy ion system, and the only hospital in the world operating two heavy ion systems, Gansu Wuwei Cancer Hospital has accumulated over five years of clinical practice, treating more than 2,800 patients across over 50 disease types, including lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, and liver cancer. Its clinical efficacy and patient survival rates have reached internationally advanced standards.

In May 2025, our hospital launched the "Phase II Clinical Study of Photon Combined with Carbon Ion Radiotherapy for Locally Advanced Esophageal Cancer," aiming to align with international standards, establish clinical treatment standards for heavy ion therapy in esophageal cancer within China, and pursue better patient outcomes. Based on certain issues identified during the actual clinical research process, the study protocol is now being revised.

Research Purpose

Gansu Wuwei Cancer Hospital plans to conduct this clinical trial from May 2025 to May 2029. This study aims to explore new treatment options for patients with esophageal cancer who are not receiving surgical treatment. A total of 32 subjects are planned for enrollment. Once successfully enrolled, participants will receive treatment for a period of 6 to 7 weeks. Participation in this study will waive the costs associated with heavy ion radiotherapy.

Inclusion Criteria

1. Age 18–75 years (inclusive);
2. Meets the AJCC 8th edition staging criteria: cT1-4N0-3M0 (excluding cT1-2N0M0, M1);
3. Has not received prior radical radiotherapy or surgical treatment for esophageal cancer;
4. Normal liver, kidney, and bone marrow function;
5. Cardiopulmonary function sufficient to tolerate radiotherapy.

The above criteria are the main inclusion criteria. Final eligibility for enrollment will be determined by the investigator in accordance with the study protocol.

Exclusion Criteria

1. Esophageal malignancy without pathological confirmation;
2. Dose constraints for organs at risk cannot be met;
3. High risk of esophageal perforation;
4. Presence of abdominal lymph node metastasis;
5. Implantation of metal devices that may affect dose distribution or compromise radiotherapy safety (e.g., pacemakers);
6. Absolute contraindications to radiotherapy.

Note: Final eligibility for enrollment will be determined by a multidisciplinary team (MDT) assessment.

Patient Rights

1. The hospital will provide research funding to the expert team to cover patients' heavy ion treatment costs.
2. A multidisciplinary expert team (MDT) for esophageal cancer research will develop a personalized treatment plan.
3. After treatment, you will receive close follow-up, and we will provide subsequent treatment recommendations.

Contact Information

Address: Wuwei Heavy Ion Center, Gansu Wuwei Cancer Hospital
Contact Persons:
Dr. Chen: +86 13893519363
Dr. Zhang: +86 13893501677

Gansu Wuwei Cancer Hospital (Wuwei Institute of Medical Sciences)

(Gan) Medical Advertisement [2025] No. 11-14-387