Wait-and-see treatment for people with rectal cancer
Part of Cancer, Digestive system clinical trials.
This study tests a “wait-and-see” approach instead of immediate surgery for certain rectal cancers, aiming to avoid unnecessary operations. It may help people who are medically able to stay under close monitoring and only have surgery if needed.
Summary written for real people, not researchers, by Clin2.
Who can take part
- You’re 18 or older
- Your rectal cancer was seen on pelvic MRI as a specific stage pattern (like deeper spread into nearby tissue or lymph node involvement, but not simple T1N0 without high-risk features)
- You do not have known cancer spread to distant organs on CT scans of the chest and abdomen
- You are well enough for cancer surgery (good overall health rating) and can take oral study medicine
- Your blood counts and organ tests meet limits (enough white cells and platelets; acceptable liver, kidney, and bilirubin levels)
- You have no prior pelvic radiation and no major bowel problems that prevent safe oral treatment
Quick eligibility check
Answer a few plain-language questions, based on this study's own requirements, to get a preliminary sense of fit.
Similar studies
Other trials that look related to this one.
This trial tests a shorter course of radiation to the pelvis to treat rectal cancer, with the goal of avoiding surgery and preserving the rectum. It may be an option for people with advanced rectal cancer that has not spread to other organs.
This trial looks at a “non-surgery” approach for some people with locally advanced rectal cancer who respond very well to radiation plus chemotherapy. If your cancer shows a complete clinical response on follow-up checks, the study may help you avoid an immediate major operation while closely monitoring you.
This trial studies people with early-to-mid stage distal rectal cancer who may get radiation and chemotherapy, with an option that may include an extra drug (oxaliplatin). It also tests whether some people can safely follow a “watch and wait” plan instead of immediate additional treatment, aiming to reduce overtreatment while keeping cancer control.
This trial tests a shorter course of radiation combined with chemotherapy and immunotherapy before surgery for high-risk rectal cancer. The goal is to see if this combination shrinks the tumor more effectively and improves outcomes.
This study looks at whether some people with locally advanced rectal cancer can safely delay or avoid surgery after chemoradiation by closely monitoring tumors (“watch and wait”). It may help those who strongly want to preserve the anus, but only if they meet strict safety checks.
This trial tests a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy before surgery for people with mid or low rectal cancer that hasn't spread. The goal is to see if this approach works better than current treatments.
Hear when a new Colorectal Neoplasms trial opens
We’ll email you when one opens — at most once a week, no account needed, unsubscribe anytime.