Testing rectal cancer organ-preservation after radiation
Part of Cancer, Digestive system clinical trials.
This trial compares two ways to preserve the rectum/avoid major surgery after radiation: a focused contact x-ray treatment versus waiting longer and then removing only a small area if needed. It may help some people keep more normal bowel function while still controlling the cancer.
Summary written for real people, not researchers, by Clin2.
Who can take part
- You are an adult (over 18) with rectal cancer confirmed by biopsy
- Your cancer is located close to the anus (within 10 cm, above the dentate line)
- You previously had specific radiation treatment, and doctors are assessing how well it responded
- After treatment, you have either near-complete response or only a small remaining tumor (less than 3 cm)
- Both follow-up options must be possible for you: contact x-ray brachytherapy and local excision
- You cannot have had certain types of chemotherapy with/around the radiation
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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