Before vs after chemotherapy for locally advanced rectal cancer
Treatments studied
Part of Cancer, Digestive system clinical trials.
This Phase 3 study compares giving chemotherapy before rectal surgery versus giving it after surgery, using a tailored plan based on your risk. The goal is to see which timing helps more people with locally advanced rectal cancer stay cancer-free and live longer.
Summary written for real people, not researchers, by Clin2.
Who can take part
- You have rectal cancer confirmed by biopsy (rectal adenocarcinoma).
- Your tumor is in the lower, middle, or upper rectum (about 0–16 cm from the start of the anus).
- Your staging scans must show no spread to distant organs (your chest/abdomen CT is clear for metastases).
- You must have pelvic MRI (and often an endoscopic ultrasound) to confirm the cancer stage and risk details.
- You should be at least 18 years old and well enough for treatment (performance status 0–1).
- Blood and organ tests must be strong enough (including adequate blood counts and kidney/liver function).
Quick eligibility check
Answer a few plain-language questions, based on this study's own requirements, to get a preliminary sense of fit.
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